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Community Corner

Humane Society: Choose Chocolate Easter Bunnies Over the Real Thing

Golden Valley's Animal Humane Society urges people to stay away from giving animals as gifts and gives pet-friendly Easter advice.

Bunnies are the third-most surrendered animals at the in Golden Valley, and in order to keep thatd number from rising, staff and volunteers at the shelter are urging everyone to think twice before giving live bunnies as Easter gifts.

Bunnies require a great deal of responsibility and need as much time and care as a dog or cat. By giving a live bunny as a gift to someone who is potentially unprepared can become a costly and heartbreaking gesture, according to staff at the Animal Humane Society.

An alternative suggestion would be to pick up an adoption gift certificate to the Animal Humane Society. People are then able to craft their special and festive surprise in an Easter basket or incorporate one of many stuffed animals available. This particular approach gives the recipient time to prepare for a new pet and also gives them the freedom to choose.

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But if you are determined to bring home a bunny this Easter, the Animal Humane Society highly recommends adopting them from the shelter, because they are all given a physical exam, spayed or neutered, and micro-chipped.

Lastly, for those of you who have other animals to think about this Easter, here are some quick helpful tips to keep your wonderful animals safe from harm this holiday season:

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  • Easter grass can be a favorite among cats and dogs. But if ingested it can be life threatening. Contact your vet if you suspect your dog or cat has consumed Easter grass.
  • Keep your pets away from Easter candy. Chocolate is toxic to animals and can be fatal.
  • Fake plastic eggs can cause intestinal damage if chewed or eaten. Make sure to keep track of the number of eggs being hidden in and around the house.
  • Easter Lilies are toxic to cats if ingested. Call your vet immediately if you suspect that your cat has eaten any part of a lily plant. 
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