The title of this post is “Don’t Buy A Rabbit As An Easter Gift” but right out the gate, I’m going to say something that contradicts the title: rabbits make great pets. They’re the third most popular pet in the United States, after dogs and cats, according to the Humane Society. Rabbits, unlike dogs and cats, also eat a completely vegan diet, making them a great pet for a person who swears off animal products entirely but still wants a pet.

Note: While dogs may be fed a vegan diet carefully, cats will eventually die if placed on a vegan diet.

But each year, we celebrate a holiday that has catastrophically negative consequences for our furry, hopping, long-eared friends. According to The Huffington Post, some 80% of rabbits purchased as an Easter gift are eventually surrendered to an animal shelter. The solution is pretty simple.

Don’t buy a rabbit as an Easter gift

Rabbits are born tiny and adorable, making them an appealing first-time pet for children. But rabbits grow up to be adults who can be skittish and anti-social – not the ideal pet for children. Rabbits, once mature, can even become aggressive and destructive As a result, many of these rabbits are dumped at animal shelters when no longer cute and small.

It’s not to say that all rabbits are skittish and anti-social. Some are very social and pleasant when raised properly. But they aren’t all that way.

And then you have to consider how long a pet rabbit will live. Before researching for this article, I’d have guessed a rabbit might live four or five years. In reality, a pet rabbit that’s been properly cared for will easily live 10-12 years.

Rabbits also need similar care as dogs and cats, including spaying and neutering and routine trips to the vet. Most veterinarians and pet insurance companies consider rabbits to be an exotic pet, making medical care more expensive.

But all this aside, rabbits can still be good pets. When neutered and spayed, they behave less aggressively and are less likely to chew and destroy things in your home. Rabbits can be litter box trained, making cleanup a breeze. And if handled properly and often, they can be great companions. So why the menacing title?

Adopt, don’t shop

If you’ve done all your research and you’ve settled on the idea of bringing a bunny home for Easter, or any other time of year, don’t rush out to a pet store to find your new companion. Instead, think about the 80% of rabbits that are surrendered by families each year.

There is a high likelihood that, in an animal shelter near you, there are a few rabbits that desperately need a new forever home. If you’ve done your research and are ready to take the next step, check out the ASPCA’s Animal Shelter Directory to find a shelter rabbit near you.