NORFOLK--It's an Easter myth as enduring as the holiday itself: Kids and rabbits are a perfect match. Hundreds, perhaps thousands of parents will impulsively buy "Easter bunnies" for their kids this spring, only to discover how quickly the novelty is eclipsed by the responsibility of caring for these special creatures. Un- prepared for this commitment, moms and dads will be dropping off unwanted rabbits at animal shelters across the country, or worse, abandoning them in parks or in the wild, where they will quickly be attacked by predators.
This scenario emphasizes the many misconceptions people have about rabbits, as well as the importance of not giving animals as gifts. Thanks to Easter and the popularity of rabbits as pets--domesticated rabbits have become the third most popular companion animal in the U.S.--shelters throughout the country are usually filled with these lovable animals.
There is an acute need for more people to become involved in rabbit rescue--especially men. I share my house with five rabbits, all of whom were saved from abuse or neglect. They found their way to me through the House Rabbit Society, which has chapters across the country and educates the public about the joys of living with rabbits and places rescued bunnies into loving homes.
What I don't understand is why more men aren't involved in such a rewarding experience. Indeed, of all the people I know personally who are fostering rabbits, not one is male. HRS president Margo DeMello estimates that women fostering rabbits outnumber men eight to one, explaining that "women are far more involved in animal protection activities than men are, and are also more closely linked to rabbits in particular." Why is that?
As a foster guardian for these animals, I can say that they have certainly helped me better understand the importance of forgiveness, courage, and friendship. But perhaps the soft and gentle rabbit is somehow threatening to the false paradigm we have come to believe--that "being a man" means we have to be tough and insensitive. In other words, a "real man" is more likely to eat a rabbit than care for one. Guys, with Easter fast approaching, we need you now more than ever, since your presence could almost double the number of people involved in rabbit rescue.
Maybe it takes a certain amount of self-confidence for a man to welcome a rabbit into his home and heart. Perhaps care-giving is not quite as intuitive for men as it is for women and guys may be put off by the sensitivity required for living with these lively, fuzzy beings. It takes deep commitment, nurturing, and compassion--qualities not immediately associated with males. But if more men could lower their barriers just enough to allow a rabbit to leap over, they would open themselves to a tremendously rewarding experience and thousands more animals would have loving homes.
MARK HAWTHORNE is a member of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.
