GUELPH, ON (February 1, 2022) – February is Adopt a Rescued Rabbit Month, and to encourage more bunny adoptions, the Guelph Humane Society (GHS) is reducing rabbit adoption fees. Normally $160, throughout the month of February a bunny can be adopted from GHS for just $50 (no taxes or additional fees).

“All bunnies we adopt out are already spayed or neutered,” says Samantha White, Adoption Coordinator at GHS. “A spay or neuter surgery can cost hundreds of dollars, so adopting an already altered bunny can definitely save you money.”

Last summer, GHS became vocal about the bunny crisis happening in Ontario – with the number of stray and surrendered rabbits increasing dramatically from previous years. In fact, GHS cared for 148 rabbits in 2021. That’s up from 41 rabbits in 2020. And other humane societies across the province are reporting similar trends.

Fawn is one of many bunnies currently looking for their Happy Tails.

“We had 84 rabbit adoptions last year,” White says. “We have seen many rabbit owners add a second bunny into their homes, or dog and cat owners add a bunny into the mix – which is great, because rabbits are social animals and love the companionship. But we still have so many more bunnies looking for a loving home. We need more people to come forward who have maybe been considering adopting a rabbit. Now is the time!”

Rabbits can make great pets, says White, but families still need to do their research. Domestic rabbits can live 10 years, so they are a long-term commitment. And annual veterinary checkups are recommended, just like with any cat or dog.

“Bunnies can be trained, just like most pets,” White adds. “They can be trained to use the litter box, and trained to come when you call their name. They’re very smart…and adorable, of course.”

To view the bunnies currently up for adoption, visit the Guelph Humane Society’s Available Animals page at https://guelphhumane.ca/adopt/available-animals/. Click on the different rabbit bios to read more about their personalities, and click “Adopt Me” if you’re ready to submit an online adoption application.

“Please, if you’re looking to add a bunny to your home – adopt, don’t shop,” White says. “And make sure your rabbits are always spayed or neutered. That’s how we will limit future unwanted litters, and level off the number of bunnies in need of a home.”

 

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About the Guelph Humane Society

The Guelph Humane Society advocates for all animals, and in particular those animals whose lives it can influence, through care, education, community support, protection, and leadership. Founded in 1893, the Guelph Humane Society provides care and shelter for approximately 3,000 homeless, stray, injured and abused animals each year in Guelph and Wellington County. GHS is a registered charitable, non-profit organization that does not receive government funding. Visit www.guelphhumane.ca to discover more.

 

Follow GHS:

Facebook: @guelphhumanesociety

Twitter: @guelphhumane

Instagram: @the_ghs

 

Media Contact

Natalie Thomas

Manager, Marketing and Communications

Guelph Humane Society

519-824-3091

nthomas@guelphhumane.ca