Thinking about giving your children a bunny or chick as a "special" Easter present? Here are some things to think about first:

• These extremely vulnerable little animals are poorly suited as pets.
• Although unintentional, the vast majority of the baby bunnies, chicks and ducks that become Easter gifts die within a few weeks.
• They require special feeding, care and consistent temperatures.
• Small children often break the animals' fragile bones and cause other fatal injuries.
• Animals that do survive the first few weeks are often released to animal care and control agencies, where many must be euthanized because no permanent homes can be found for them.
• You may contract salmonella, which causes severe inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, from these chicks and ducks. Children are especially vulnerable to this disease.
• At Easter time, you can help prevent cruelty by giving your little ones stuffed animals. And, after the holiday, if your family is ready for a new pet, consider an adorable adoptable dog or cat from your local animal shelter.