explore
Dog Gallery
Cat Gallery
Small Animals
Local Shelters
Past Events

resources
Bookstore
Links!
Pet Friendly
Business

P.O. Box 1015 Waldorf, MD 20604-1015
Phone: 301 645-8181

14 April 2001, From the American Humane Association
Help Prevent Easter Cruelty

Chicks, ducks and bunnies may not be the right Easter gift...

The vast majority of the baby bunnies, chicks and ducks that are given as Easter gifts die within a few weeks. They are frequently the victims of unintentional neglect and cruelty. These extremely vulnerable little animals are poorly suited as pets, and require special feeding, care and constant temperatures.

Small children often break their fragile bones, and cause other fatal injuries. Many baby bunnies, chicks and ducks are killed or maimed by neighborhood dogs and cats. And, those animals who do survive the first few weeks are often released to animal care and control agencies, where many must be euthanized because no permanent homes can be found.

Additionally, people may contract salmonella (which causes severe inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract) from these chicks and ducks.

This Easter, you can help prevent cruelty by giving your little ones stuffed animals! And, after the holiday, if your family is ready for a new pet, consider an adorable, adoptable dog or cat from your local animal shelter.