Washington Officials Urge Caution Before Buying Chicks, Rabbits for Easter

Families advised to consider long-term care needs before adopting live animals as holiday gifts

Apr. 4, 2026 at 12:19am

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph of a child's hand gently petting a small chick or rabbit, with the background blurred into warm, hazy pools of pastel colors, conceptually representing the care and responsibility required for keeping live animals as pets.Officials warn that Easter chicks and rabbits require long-term care, urging families to consider the commitment before adopting live animals as holiday gifts.Olympia Today

The Washington State Department of Agriculture is warning residents to think carefully before purchasing chicks or rabbits as Easter gifts, noting the animals require long-term care and are often abandoned after the holiday. Officials are advising families to consider alternatives like stuffed animals or to adopt through shelters if they are prepared for the responsibility of raising live animals.

Why it matters

Every year, many families impulsively buy chicks and rabbits as Easter gifts without realizing the long-term commitment required. This often leads to the animals being abandoned or surrendered to shelters after the holiday, putting a strain on local resources and animal welfare organizations.

The details

Chickens can live up to 8 years and rabbits over a decade with proper care, which many families are not equipped to provide. Officials say residents should check local regulations, as some areas may restrict keeping chickens or certain animals. Chicks require a warm brooder environment, while rabbits need space to move and exercise. Both animals also require proper nutrition and regular veterinary care, including access to providers familiar with avian or exotic pets.

  • As Easter approaches in 2026

The players

Washington State Department of Agriculture

The state agency responsible for overseeing agriculture and animal welfare in Washington.

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The takeaway

This advisory highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need for families to carefully consider the long-term commitment required before adopting live animals, even for special occasions like Easter. By promoting adoption over impulse purchases, officials hope to reduce the number of abandoned chicks and rabbits after the holiday.