Ottawa Humane Society hosts annual ‘Rabbit Week’ to facilitate adoptions
Posted Jul 22, 2025 12:24:09 PM.
Last Updated Jul 28, 2025 02:34:58 PM.
Rabbits have long been misunderstood. Often thought of as a beginner pet, they actually require a great deal of care and attention. This misconception has led to an increase in rabbits at humane societies across the province.
The Ottawa Humane Society has declared July 20 to 26 “Rabbit Week”, in an effort to educate about caring for the small pets and hopefully facilitate some adoptions.
“For the past three years, we’ve been up to our ears in bunnies,” Craig Dwyer, OHS manager of admissions and rehoming, said in a press release. “This event is a great way to get people excited about rabbits and secure more second chances.”
Currently the OHS says it has 30 rabbits in its care. During last year’s Rabbit Week, the organization facilitated 33 adoptions.
The OHS is offering special promotions to those looking to bring a rabbit into their home. Those who bring home a rabbit this week will receive a 20 per cent discount on the adoption fee plus a Rabbit Week goody bag.
But in order to reduce the number of rabbits returned to the shelter, those looking to adopt need to be properly educated on what caring for a rabbit looks like.
The Ontario SPCA lists nine things to know before adopting a rabbit. They include:
- Rabbits require gentle handling;
- Not all rabbits get along;
- Rabbits love to chew;
- Rabbits need regular exercise;
- Rabbits require a well-balanced diet;
- Rabbits need their habitat cleaned regularly;
- Rabbits are indoor companions;
- Rabbits need routine veterinary care; and
- Rabbits require brushing.
