Review: Useful Information for Curious Youth Seeking a Pet Rabbit
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 03 21, 2014
Generally, I get very animated when I hear of anyone considering rabbits as pets. However, it is true the small breeds can make interesting companions.I should explain my prejudice. I and my father each raised commercial rabbits for meat, fur and medical research. Most commercial rabbit farmers will tell you that the thought of eating a pet rabbit has cost the industry lots of money. Rabbits are lower in cholesterol and fat even than chickens. Rabbit is probably the healthiest source of meat protein on planet Earth.Okay, I'll get off my soapbox and explain what I most dislike about Everything About Rabbits:First - It's impossible to tell everything about rabbits in a 35-page book. A better title would be, A Child's Introductionto Rabbit Breeds and Their Care. UPDATE: the author informs me she has included photographs of the various breeds, greatly improving this book to four stars, in my opinion, so I have raised my rating.Second - as the author does state, do not feed lettuce to rabbits. Iceberg lettuce will kill a bunny. One, it has no nutritional value for rabbits (or tortoises) AND is addictive. Rabbits (and tortoises) that get addicted to iceberg lettuce will starve to death because they'll eat nothing else. Romaine lettuce, on the other hand, is good for rabbits and tortoises, especially when fed in moderation.Third - no photographs. I can't imagine how anyone, especially children, could enjoy a book about rabbits with no photographs of the different breeds. And, giving information on building a hutch, or a cage, with no drawings, is a grave error that I hope the author corrects. Also, I don't think the author explained about the breeding procedure (take the female to the male.Now, what DID I LIKE about Everything About Rabbits? The book was short (35 pages) and priced at a bargain basement price, and it was written In a style and manner that children aged 12 and above should have no serious problems understanding. For kids younger than 12, this book gives an opportunity for quality time for parents and child to share.So, overall, I'm rating this book 4 Stars, but noting just a little effort could raise this to 5. Anyone reading this review should buy this book if none of the above objections resonates with them, especially if they think pet rabbits are a good idea for their child.