The Humane Society of the United States and The House Rabbit Society applaud the announcement by national pet supply chain PETCO that it will phase out rabbit sales in 2009.

"The phase-out of rabbit sales by PETCO is a great step forward to help homeless, adoptable rabbits across the country," said Adam Goldfarb, companion animal issues specialist for The HSUS. "Rabbits are the third-most commonly surrendered animal to shelters after cats and dogs."

This decision comes months ahead of springtime, a notoriously bad season for rabbits when many families buy a rabbit on impulse for the Easter holiday. Unfortunately, these rabbits often end up relegated to the basement or garage after the holiday is over. A few months later, Easter rabbits are routinely surrendered to shelters or set free in a park or backyard to fend for themselves. But because domestic rabbits are a different species from their wild cousins, they're often killed within a day or two by a predator or exposure.

PETCO is one of the largest pet supply chains in the country and this decision sends a powerful message to the pet industry. The HSUS believes that with so many homeless rabbits, it is irresponsible for pet stores to sell rabbits from mass breeding facilities similar to puppy mills. There are thousands of homeless rabbits available through shelters and rescues, making adoption the best option for a family seeking a floppy-eared friend.

The Humane Society of the United States urges all pet stores to adopt policies to end or reduce in-store animal sales. Millions of animals enter shelters and rescue groups every year. By ending animal sales and encouraging animal adoption, pet supply stores can greatly help homeless animals in their community.

Facts about rabbits:

Just like cats and dogs, it's important for rabbits to be spayed or neutered. Rabbit sterilization prevents reproduction, improves behavior, and reduces the risks of certain cancers.

Pet rabbits are a different species from their wild cousins and cannot survive in the wild.

Rabbits can live for more than 10 years.

There are more than 50 breeds of rabbit ranging from two pounds to more than 20 pounds.

Rabbits can be trained to do tricks or even run obstacle courses.

Domesticated rabbits are safer and happier living indoors as a part of the family. Keeping rabbits outdoors in a hutch can be dangerous.

Rabbits are extremely social animals who are far happier in pairs or groups than when kept alone.