How would you respond?

[Mini Lop Fan]

Just as the title suggests, I have buyer interested in a baby Mini Lops. This is what they asked me, "How is the bunny with kids I have three little ones 5, 8and 10 years. The kids will constantly want to hold and snuggle with it."

How would you respond? Bunnies and young kids are a touchy subject hehe. My rabbits are good with kids but how would y'all recommend explaining the boundaries bunnies have? And how they may not always love being constantly snuggled?

 

[michaels4gardens]

I would suggest a puppy [maybe even a stuffed toy one]

 

[Zass]

I'm brutally honest. Most rabbits do not enjoy being held, and a frightened rabbit can do a LOT of damage to a child.

I usually manage to discourage such types from wanting a rabbit as a living toy for their children.

 

[Preitler]

I always make clear that my rabbits are not cuddly pets, and point out that there will be daily chores for 10 years, and that they do not interact like cats or dogs and that it can take time and effort to learn their subtle behaviour.
With about 10lbs they can do quite some damage when they decide to not wanting to be held anymore, I prefer rabbits with a strong will and good instincts.
Only once I sent people with kids away, to another breeder down the road who specialises in extremly friendly pet rabbits, her rabbits are like a complete different spieces .
Here almost all that wanted pet rabbits from me had experience with my type of rabbits, most had some farm background.

 

[Mini Lop Fan]

Thanks! Y'all are great. That was basically what I was thinking. But communicating via Facebook can be misinterpreted, and I want to be honest without deeply offending someone. If I hear that people are wanting it for such young kids, I usually try to discourage them, but then again, people usually don't say anything till AFTER they place a deposit. Maybe I should just make them read an article about kids and bunnies before allowing them to place a deposit. :/
Thanks again!

 

[golden rabbitry]

I breed hollands and they want scratches and nose rubs, not cuddles and to be dragged around....maybe educate the mother so she can educate the kids. Certain breeds are great with kids, but not all will like it

 

[hotzcatz]

If you make it as concern for the kids being scratched by claws at the end of strong hind legs, then maybe it will sink in and not be seen as rude?

Personally, I think it's a horror show for the rabbit, but parents of a pile of young kids aren't likely to see things from a rabbit's point of view.