Dear Readers: Easter is just around the corner, and you'll be seeing more bunnies, a popular pet at this time of year. If you are considering adding one to your family, first give it a lot of thought, and consider the following:
1. A rabbit is very social and needs interaction and affection daily. It is also recommended that a rabbit be kept inside your home in a roomy cage.
2. Rabbits should also be spayed or neutered around 3 1/2 to 6 months of age by a veterinarian who is familiar with bunnies. This helps keep them from "marking" territory, curbs aggressive territorial behavior and provides a longer life.
3. Because rabbits are natural chewers, close attention must be given to keeping electrical cords out of their reach. Provide chew toys to keep their mind occupied, and closely supervise them when they are given the run of the house.
4. Rabbits can be trained to use a litter box. For best results, use positive reinforcement like rewards, such as a favorite fruit or veggie, for a job well done. Be sure to change the litter box often.
Last but not least, if you've decided a bunny is right for your home, be patient when you bring it home. Give the bunny plenty of time to get accustomed to the new surroundings and all those hands wanting to touch it. With time and patience, you'll become the best of friends! — Heloise
Dear Readers: Anthony and Jackie Russo of Red Bank, N.J., sent in a photo of their cairn terrier, Birdie, watching the world go by with their granddaughter, Sallyann. They are both looking out the front door, checking out what's going on in the neighborhood. — Heloise
Dear Heloise: Recently, my husband, Don, and I were stretched out in our recliners watching a ballgame, and our 13-year-old golden Shih Tzu, Boomer, was lying on the footrest of Don's chair. Don reached into his snack sack, laid a handful of trail mix on his chest and proceeded to eat it a piece at a time, and Boomer never even raised his head in an attempt to get any. A few minutes later, Boomer jumped from the footrest and left the room, but returned shortly and sat up in front of Don's chair. Don lowered the footrest, and Boomer climbed up and laid a mouthful of dry dog food on Don's chest and ate it one piece at a time. He had never done that before, nor since. We got a good laugh out of his demeanor. — Ruth Ann Tooloose, Terre Haute, Ind.
Dear Heloise: I have three cats. I love the fresh air, but the cats kept pushing out the window screen. Then I decided to try one of those gates that you use to block doorways to keep toddlers out. Voila! I can open my window, but the cats stay in. — Juanita Fletcher, Tyler, Texas
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