Pet Stores - Buyer Beware

It’s sad, but so many times we’ll get e-mails form folks who purchased their rabbit from the local pet store, only to find it ill or even dead a few days later. What’s worse, is when they contacted the pet store for help, they didn’t get it.

Most pet stores don’t have enough or even the correct knowledge when it comes to some animal care. Once you’ve purchased your rabbit and are out the door, you’re usually on your own. To make matters worse, usually what you have been told is incorrect information.

One example that I see constantly at a local mall is a bin full of rabbits. Not a cage, not a hutch, but a big plastic bin. The sign reads, “Dwarf rabbits for sale - $40”. So what’s wrong with this?

First of all, keeping all of those rabbits together like that is just asking for one to get sick. And when one gets sick – there’s a good chance they all will. Also, after peering down into the bin I see a menagerie of breeds; Californaians, New Zealands, Rex, Dutch, Mini Lops – but interesting enough, there’s not a single dwarf in there. So what’s going to happen to the next unsuspecting buyer? They’re going to end up with a rabbit that could potentially hit 8-10lbs once full grown and one that has a good possibility of having snuffles or some other disease.

Is the pet shop going to take little “fluffy” back once you realize he/she is sick or has gotten larger than you had expected? No. They got your money – that’s all they cared about. Many times when the rabbit doesn't meet the expectations of the buyer or their family, the animal is discarded and they go out looking for another one.

If you’re willing to take some time to find a responsible breeder, you’ll find out that your rabbit experiences will be much better. You’ll know exactly how large your animal will grow to. You’ll be sure to get a healthy animal, and you won’t have to pay $40. Most breeders I know sell their pets for $25 or less. Also, the breeder knows his or her animals. They know their quirks and how to properly care and handle them. A responsible breeder will sit down and talk to you before the sale to find out if a rabbit is really right for you. They’ll also be there after the sale incase you have any questions.

Or, if you're looking to make a difference in an animals life, maybe one that was tossed away by an irresponsible pet owner, try looking for your new pet at an animal shelter.

Please, if you’re thinking from buying from a pet store – think again.

Article written by Mindy Borer
Rabbit Registrar #RR473
www.TranquilAcresRabbitry.com