Non-traditional Pets

According to a 1998 survey commissioned by three major national veterinary medical associations, overall pet ownership has increased during the 1980's and 1990's; however some substantial shifts in the types of pets owned have occurred. The dog population appears to be stable or is increasing only slightly. The population of cats has increased substantially as compared to the dog population. Most interesting is the increase in the number of households owning non-traditional pets such as birds, fish, rabbits, ferrets, and reptiles.

Rabbits make excellent pets and are an interesting alternative to cats and dogs as pets. With over 40 different breeds to choose from, the most popular are the smaller breeds, such as the Dutch, Holland Lop, Mini Lop, Netherland Dwarf, and Polish. Rabbits are clean, docile, intelligent and may live fqr 10 to 15 years. Their ability to be leashed and litterbox trained makes them excellent indoor pets.

Rabbits should be housed in a protective environment, either inside or outside. If housed outdoors, a wooden or wire hutch is suitable as long as it offers ample protection from the elements and has a wooden board for the rabbit to sit on. If housed indoors, make sure that rabbits are not left alone with other pets and do not have access to electric cords or poisons. Rabbits should be checked every day for fresh food and water and for general well being. A balanced diet consists of alfalfa based pellets supplemented with hay and garden vegetables. The hay is helpful in aiding digestion and decreasing hairball formation. Rabbits should be handled often so they become comfortable with human hands in case they become sick and need veterinary attention. It is important to support the hind legs of rabbits when handling them. Rabbits have very strong legs, and an agitated rabbit could break its back just from the force of a hind leg kick if it's spine is unsupported.

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