Petco to stop selling rabbits and pushes for adoption-only

( WJET/WFXP ) — After animal advocacy groups pushed for Petco to stop all rabbit sales, Petco announced on Tuesday that they would be stopping all rabbit sales and shifting to an “adoption-only” policy.

The advocacy group Rabbit.org Foundation demanded earlier this month that Petco cease all rabbit sales, saying the company had shattered its commitments they made in 1994 and 2008. They say that having rabbits for sale leads to impulse buys by customers who are unaware of the extensive care and costs that come with owning a rabbit. This leads to “summer dump season,” where they say many pet rabbits are abandoned outside, becoming roadkill or prey.

“Petco and its customers have always been the greatest supporters of Petco Love and the tireless work of our animal welfare partners to save animal lives,” said Susanne Kogut, President of Petco Love. “I am incredibly pleased by the decision to recommit to an adoption-only policy for rabbits and proud of Petco leaders for listening to the perspectives of Petco Love and our animal welfare community, and staying true to Petco’s own mission to improve lives for pets and the people who love them.”

Petco says that this move better aligns “with the company’s longstanding Think Adoption First philosophy – which encourages prospective pet parents to consider adopting a homeless pet rather than purchasing one, whenever possible.”

Starting on Tuesday, all miniature rabbits that were available for purchase are now only available for adoption. Petco is also offering 20% off “Start Right” savings to customers who adopt a rabbit from any established rabbit rescue or adoption group through October.

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