Easter Isn’t a Gift for Everyone: The Potential Suffering Behind ‘Cute’ Presents 14-04-25

The blog we're featuring today is from OneKind Planet Editor Leila Scott. Leila is also one of the founders of Sunshine Animal Sanctuary on Malta.

Easter is often associated with new life, fluffy animals, and brightly coloured treats - a time of celebration, family, and joy. But for some animals across the UK, this time of year can mean abandonment, neglect, and even death.

There are some reports of well-meaning but ill-informed people buying rabbits, chicks, and ducklings as novelty gifts for children. Once the holiday hype fades, these animals are often forgotten - discarded like the empty chocolate wrappers left behind.

So, how can we make Easter better for animals?

A rabbit looking out of a small hutch.

Rabbits Aren’t ‘Low-Maintenance’

Despite their popularity, rabbits are one of the most misunderstood companion animals. Many people assume they’re easy companions for children, but in truth, rabbits are complex, social creatures who require plenty of space, stimulation, and care. They are prey animals who are easily scared often don’t enjoy being handled.

Yet some rescues report a spike in rabbit surrenders in the months following Easter. This highlights a bigger issue: too often people buy animals without understanding their needs.

Young rabbits in a

Shelters Overwhelmed Post-Easter

Some rescue centres report an influx of unwanted rabbits and other animals after Easter, many of whom arrive malnourished, scared, or with untreated health issues.

Rescue centres are already working at capacity year-round and Easter can intensify the burden. It’s a vicious cycle of impulse buying, neglect, and abandonment that shelters have to deal with.

Two rabbits sitting in an enclosure

Why You Should Never Buy Animals as Gifts

Animals are not gifts. They are living beings with their own personalities, preferences, and needs. Giving an animal to a child as a surprise can lead to poor outcomes for everyone involved, particularly the animal.

What’s more, buying from pet shops or breeders fuels an industry that often prioritises profit over welfare. By adopting from a shelter instead, you not only give an animal a second chance but also send a clear message that animals are not commodities.

What You Can Do to Help

This Easter, let’s choose compassion over commercialism. Here’s how you can make a difference:
Educate others: Spread the word about why animals shouldn’t be given as gifts.

  • Support rescues: Donate, foster, or volunteer at your local shelter.
  • Adopt responsibly: If you’re ready for a new companion at Easter or any other time of year, adopt - don’t shop.
  • Speak out: Share this message online and help shift public perceptions around Easter animals.
  • Offer alternatives: For kids who want a bunny or chick, consider giving a cuddly toy, book, or sponsorship of a rescued animal from a sanctuary like Goodheart instead. 

Easter symbolises new beginnings, hope, and life - values that should extend to all living beings. This season, let’s choose empathy over tradition and treat animals with the kindness they deserve. Together, we can create a more compassionate world - one thoughtful choice at a time.

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