The Georgia Commission of Agriculture is urging parents to think twice before giving real animals and birds as presents to children this Easter...
The Georgia Commission of Agriculture is urging parents to think twice before giving real animals and birds as presents to children this Easter.
“Chickens and ducks generally do not make good pets for children, especially considering a child’s susceptibility to germs,” said Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Tommy Irvin. The birds often carry harmful Salmonella bacteria, and each spring some children become sick after receiving an Easter chick or duckling.
Parents should also note that chicks and ducklings often die at a very early age or can grow to have completely different temperaments than when they were young. Aggression can increase as the birds mature, and the habits of some birds, such as the crowing of a rooster, can prove frustrating to neighbors and owners.
Rabbits can make good pets, but those thinking about purchasing one should do some research first, officials said. Rabbits are not “low-care” alternatives to cats or dogs. They need special care and have special veterinary needs.
Rabbits rarely conform to cuddly stereotypes. Rabbits feel frightened when picked up and may kick, struggle, scratch or bite. They instinctively react to sudden changes and may run away or try to bite when approached too quickly and too loudly. For these reasons, many children, especially young children, may find it difficult to interact with a rabbit and lose interest.
“Although animals may be a surprising and enjoyable Easter gift, they should not be purchased on a whim,” Irvin said. “Pets should only be bought after careful consideration.”
More information about the possible health risks of chicks and ducklings can be found on the Center for Disease Control’s website at http://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/easter_chicks.htm. For more information about rabbits visit http://www.rabbit.org/ and http://www.makeminechocolate.org/.