Turbo the house rabbit has an important Christmas message for you: Do not give living animals as surprise Christmas gifts!

Disney movies are not real and animals are NOT toys!

Whatever animal you are considering (puppy, kitten, rabbit, hamster, lizard…) will require YEARS of commitment. Pets require and deserve our LOVE, time and money. Shelters seem to be flooded with surrendered animals a few months after the holidays. The kids are bored with the rabbit, the kitten scratched the couch, no one has time to walk the dog…the excuses are endless. If you are not entirely prepared to provide ALL the the effort your animal will need, consider other options:

If you just want something CUTE under your Chrismas tree, buy an adorable plush toy.

If you just want to “teach your child some responsibility”, allow the kids to volunteer at a local animal shelter.

If you want to help animals, but you aren’t ready for one of your own you can collect items to donate to your local shelter. Just call them and ask what is on their “wish list”.

Animals make great family members, giving us endless love and laughter. But you MUST be prepared for the responsibility. Do some research, ask lots of questions (contact shelters, rescues and vet clinics) and make your decisions carefully. Our animals deserve the best possible care from us.

Merry Christmas from Turbo the Terrible and the Virgo Rabbit Clan. And as always: Rescue. Neuter. Protect. Educate.