Overview
- Animal rescues and shelters are urging people not to buy rabbits or chicks as Easter gifts this week.
- They cite predictable spikes in surrendered or abandoned rabbits one to three months after the holiday.
- Experts note rabbits live 8 to 12 years and need indoor housing, a specific diet, daily care, and costly vet visits.
- Chicks and ducklings quickly grow into full-size birds that can be noisy, hard to keep, and sometimes illegal in cities.
- Rescue groups suggest stuffed toys or chocolate instead of live animals, and a Los Angeles nonprofit alleges ongoing illegal sales at Santee Alley.