The Ontario Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is advising the public to think twice about giving live rabbits as gifts for Easter.

Although there is no doubting the irresistible attraction of cute, cuddly, furry bunnies, families should realize that a great responsibility comes along with the adorable bundle of fur.

But, while pets given at holidays such as Christmas and Easter may seem like a good idea at the time, they often prove to be a mistake. The novelty of the gift can quickly wear off, especially with young children, and people often don't appreciate the responsibility pet ownership entails and too often the pet winds up housed in an animal shelter.

Barbara McCreath, community relations coordinator for the SPCA's Orangeville and District Branch, says the local Homeward Bound Animal Shelter and Adoption Centre has received many rabbits in the last six months. "We currently have six rabbits waiting for homes."

So, if adding a bunny to your family is somewhat of an impulsive decision because of all of the cute bunny imagery around Easter, chocolate bunnies are the smarter way to go.

Another option is to give a stuffed, toy bunny as an Easter present. If the novelty of wanting a real bunny doesn't wear off following the Easter holiday, then rabbit adoption can be responsibly explored, with consideration given to the specialized needs and care of rabbits.

The SPCA says that in considering a rabbit as a pet, you should understand that:

 Bunnies are fragile and can be easily hurt. Children often want to hug and cuddle a pet bunny as they would a stuffed toy and this can be dangerous for the rabbit. Bunnies are ground-loving creatures who feel frightened and insecure when held and restrained. They may kick and jump to try and get away, which can harm the rabbit and the child. Domestic rabbits have a heavy body density and weight, but also have a small bone density and, thus, are very fragile. Children don't realize this and by hugging bunnies too hard, or not holding them properly, they can cause serious injuries.

 Rabbits need exercise. Often, rabbit owners don't appreciate that their pets require space to exercise, confining them to a cage for most of the time. For their physical and mental wellbeing, rabbits need to stretch their legs and run around.

 Rabbits should be spayed or neutered, just like dogs and cats, to avoid unwanted pregnancies and to help avoid the possibility of their contracting certain diseases and cancers. If spaying or neutering is not done, the animal is likely to mark your house with feces and urine.

 Your house should be 'bunny-proofed.' Rabbits will chew electrical cords and furniture, so these things should be protected to prevent damage and injury to your pet.

 Rabbits are a longterm commitment. These are sensitive, intelligent, social animals that can live up to 10 years. Are you ready for such a longterm commitment?

The unfortunate reality is that many rabbits are neglected or abandoned outright after pet owners lose interest and decide not to provide the necessary care. Ontario SPCA branches and affiliated humane societies see a large increase in the number of abandoned rabbits each Easter.

If, after much consideration, you decide you still want to add a bunny to your family, please visit the SPCA's Orangeville and District Branch and adopt a rabbit that someone else wasn't able to care for.