Can You Have a Hare As A Pet? Considerations and Care Guide

Are you wondering, “Can You Have A Hare As A Pet?” While the idea of keeping a hare as a pet might seem appealing, it’s crucial to understand the complexities involved. This guide by PETS.EDU.VN explores the realities of hare ownership, covering everything from legal considerations to care requirements, and offers alternatives for those seeking a more manageable pet. Discover essential information about hare behavior, wild animal care, and responsible pet ownership.

1. Understanding Hares: More Than Just Big Rabbits

Before you consider bringing a hare into your home, it’s important to understand what they are and what makes them different from rabbits. Hares (Lepus europaeus) are wild animals with unique needs and behaviors that distinguish them from their domesticated rabbit cousins.

1.1. Hares vs. Rabbits: Key Differences

Feature	Hare	Rabbit
Social Behavior	Solitary animals; prefer to live alone	Social animals; thrive in pairs or groups
Young	Born precocial (fully furred, eyes open, and able to move)	Born altricial (naked, blind, and dependent on maternal care)
Habitat	Live above ground in “forms” (shallow depressions)	Live in burrows or warrens
Temperament	More skittish and prone to stress	Generally more docile and adaptable
Legality	Often protected by wildlife laws; may require permits to keep	Legal to own in many areas, with fewer restrictions
Size	Larger, with longer ears and legs	Smaller, with shorter ears and legs
Diet	Primarily grasses and vegetation	Commercial rabbit food, hay, and vegetables

These fundamental differences mean that hares require a very different approach to care compared to domestic rabbits.

1.2. Natural Behaviors of Hares

Hares are naturally solitary creatures that thrive in open fields and meadows. Their behaviors are adapted to survival in the wild:

Constant Vigilance: They are always on high alert for predators.
High-Speed Movement: Hares can reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour to escape danger.
Independent Nature: They do not seek companionship and can become stressed in confined environments.
Elusive: Hares protect themselves in their forms by lying as still as a statue, tucked in close to the ground with their ears pressed flat along their backs

Understanding these behaviors is crucial in determining whether you can realistically provide an environment that meets their needs.

1.3. Conservation Status and Ethical Considerations

Hares are wild animals, and in many regions, their populations are declining due to habitat loss and other human-related factors. Removing a hare from its natural environment can have negative impacts on local ecosystems.

Conservation Concerns: Some hare species are listed as threatened or endangered.
Ethical Responsibility: Taking a wild animal for personal enjoyment raises ethical questions about animal welfare and conservation.
Potential Harm: Hares may suffer from stress, malnutrition, and other health problems in captivity if their specific needs are not met.

2. The Legality of Owning a Hare

One of the first things you need to investigate when considering “Can you have a hare as a pet?” is the legal aspect. The legality of owning a hare varies significantly depending on your location.

2.1. Wildlife Laws and Regulations

Many countries and states have strict laws protecting native wildlife, including hares. These laws often prohibit the capture, possession, or sale of wild animals without proper permits.

Permit Requirements: Some regions may allow the possession of hares for specific purposes, such as wildlife rehabilitation or conservation, but these require permits from wildlife authorities.
Species-Specific Laws: The laws may vary depending on the hare species. Some species may be more strictly protected than others.
Penalties for Illegal Possession: Violating wildlife laws can result in hefty fines, confiscation of the animal, and even criminal charges.

Before considering a hare as a pet, contact your local and national wildlife agencies to understand the applicable laws and regulations.

2.2. International Regulations

If you plan to import a hare from another country, you must comply with international wildlife regulations, such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

CITES Permits: CITES regulates the international trade of certain species to ensure their survival. Importing a hare may require CITES permits from both the exporting and importing countries.
Quarantine Requirements: Many countries have quarantine requirements for imported animals to prevent the spread of diseases.
Health Certificates: You may need to obtain health certificates from a veterinarian to prove that the hare is healthy and free from infectious diseases.

2.3. Considerations for Rescue and Rehabilitation

In some cases, you might encounter an injured or orphaned hare that needs help. While it’s admirable to want to care for such an animal, it’s essential to follow proper protocols.

Contact Local Wildlife Rehabilitators: The best course of action is to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator who has the expertise and facilities to care for the hare.
Temporary Care: If you provide temporary care, ensure that you do so under the guidance of a veterinarian or wildlife expert.
Release Protocols: The goal should always be to release the hare back into its natural habitat once it is healthy and able to survive on its own.

3. Housing Requirements for Hares

If it is legal and ethical to keep a hare, the next question is whether you can provide suitable housing. Hares have specific needs that are challenging to meet in a typical home environment.

3.1. Space and Enclosure Size

Hares are active animals that require a lot of space to run, jump, and explore. A small cage or hutch is not sufficient for their well-being.

Large Outdoor Enclosure: A minimum enclosure size of 12 feet by 8 feet is recommended for a single hare. This allows them to exhibit natural behaviors such as running and grazing.
Secure Fencing: The enclosure must have secure fencing to prevent escapes and protect the hare from predators such as foxes, dogs, and cats.
Digging Prevention: Hares may try to dig, so the enclosure should have a wire mesh or concrete base to prevent them from escaping underground.

3.2. Natural Habitat Replication

Hares thrive in environments that mimic their natural habitat. This includes providing:

Grass and Vegetation: Hares need access to fresh grass, hay, and other vegetation to graze on.
Shelter: Provide a sheltered area where the hare can hide from the elements and feel secure. This could be a small shed, a large dog house, or a natural burrow.
Dust Bathing Area: Hares enjoy dust bathing to keep their fur clean and healthy. Provide a designated area with loose soil or sand.
Varied Terrain: Create a varied terrain with hills, tunnels, and logs to encourage exploration and exercise.

3.3. Temperature and Climate Control

Hares are adapted to living outdoors and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, they need protection from extreme weather conditions.

Shade: Provide plenty of shade during hot weather to prevent overheating.
Windbreaks: Protect the enclosure from strong winds, which can cause discomfort and stress.
Insulated Shelter: In cold climates, provide an insulated shelter where the hare can stay warm.
Avoid Indoor Living: Hares are not suited to living indoors, as they need fresh air, sunlight, and natural temperature variations.

4. Dietary Needs of Hares

Proper nutrition is essential for the health and well-being of hares. Their diet should consist primarily of fresh grasses, hay, and vegetables.

4.1. Grass and Hay

Grass and hay should make up the majority of a hare’s diet. These provide essential fiber, which is necessary for healthy digestion.

Fresh Grass: Provide access to fresh grass whenever possible. Ensure that the grass is free from pesticides and herbicides.
High-Quality Hay: Offer a variety of high-quality hays, such as Timothy, orchard, and meadow hay.
Avoid Alfalfa Hay: Alfalfa hay is too rich in protein and calcium for adult hares and can lead to health problems.

4.2. Vegetables and Greens

Supplement the diet with a variety of fresh vegetables and greens.

Leafy Greens: Offer leafy greens such as romaine lettuce, kale, and spinach in moderation.
Root Vegetables: Provide small amounts of root vegetables such as carrots and sweet potatoes.
Avoid Toxic Vegetables: Avoid feeding hares vegetables that are toxic to rabbits, such as onions, garlic, and avocado.

4.3. Water

Fresh, clean water should always be available.

Water Bowls: Provide water in heavy ceramic bowls that cannot be easily tipped over.
Water Bottles: You can also use water bottles with sipper tubes, but make sure the hare knows how to use them.
Check Regularly: Check the water supply regularly to ensure it is clean and full.

4.4. Supplements and Treats

Hares do not typically need supplements if they are fed a balanced diet. Treats should be given sparingly.

Avoid Sugary Treats: Avoid giving hares sugary treats such as fruits, which can disrupt their digestive system.
Natural Treats: Offer small amounts of natural treats such as herbs and edible flowers.
Mineral Blocks: Provide a mineral block for hares to gnaw on, which can help keep their teeth healthy.

5. Health and Veterinary Care for Hares

Hares are susceptible to various health problems, and finding a veterinarian who is experienced in treating them can be challenging.

5.1. Common Health Issues

Gut Stasis: This is a common and serious condition in hares, where the digestive system slows down or stops completely.
Bloat: Bloat is a complication of gut stasis, where the abdomen becomes swollen and painful due to gas buildup.
Respiratory Infections: Hares can develop respiratory infections, especially in damp or drafty environments.
Parasites: Hares are susceptible to internal and external parasites such as worms, fleas, and mites.
Dental Problems: Overgrown teeth can cause pain and difficulty eating.
Brown Hare Syndrome: This is a usually fatal condition that affects leverets, causing gut stasis and neurological symptoms.

5.2. Finding a Qualified Veterinarian

Exotic Animal Veterinarians: Look for a veterinarian who specializes in exotic animals or wildlife.
Experience with Hares: Ask the veterinarian if they have experience treating hares or similar species.
Emergency Care: Ensure that the veterinarian provides emergency care and is available outside of regular business hours.
Referrals: Ask local wildlife rehabilitators or animal shelters for referrals to qualified veterinarians.

5.3. Preventative Care

Regular Checkups: Schedule regular checkups with a veterinarian to monitor the hare’s health and detect any problems early.
Vaccinations: There are no specific vaccines for hares, but your veterinarian may recommend certain vaccinations depending on the local disease risk.
Parasite Control: Use appropriate parasite control products to prevent and treat infestations.
Dental Care: Provide plenty of hay and gnawing toys to help keep the hare’s teeth healthy.

5.4. Recognizing Signs of Illness

Loss of Appetite: A decrease in appetite is often the first sign of illness.
Lethargy: A sick hare may be less active and more lethargic than usual.
Changes in Droppings: Changes in the size, shape, or consistency of droppings can indicate digestive problems.
Respiratory Symptoms: Signs of respiratory infection include sneezing, coughing, and nasal discharge.
Abnormal Behavior: Any unusual behavior, such as head tilting or circling, should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

6. Behavioral Considerations for Hares

Hares have unique behavioral traits that must be considered before bringing one into captivity.

6.1. Stress and Anxiety

Hares are easily stressed by changes in their environment, handling, and loud noises. Stress can lead to health problems such as gut stasis and reduced immune function.

Minimize Handling: Handle hares as little as possible to reduce stress.
Quiet Environment: Provide a quiet and calm environment away from loud noises and disturbances.
Consistent Routine: Maintain a consistent daily routine to help the hare feel secure.
Hiding Places: Provide plenty of hiding places where the hare can retreat when feeling stressed.

6.2. Social Needs

Hares are solitary animals and do not typically seek companionship. In fact, keeping multiple hares together can lead to aggression and stress.

Avoid Cohabitation: Do not keep hares with other hares or rabbits, as they are not compatible.
Individual Housing: Provide individual housing for each hare to prevent conflicts.
Limited Interaction: Limit interaction with the hare to essential care tasks such as feeding and cleaning.

6.3. Activity Levels

Hares are most active at dawn and dusk. They need plenty of space to run, jump, and explore.

Large Enclosure: Provide a large enclosure that allows the hare to exercise its natural behaviors.
Enrichment Activities: Offer enrichment activities such as tunnels, logs, and toys to keep the hare mentally stimulated.
Safe Environment: Ensure that the environment is safe and free from hazards that could cause injury.

6.4. Destructive Behaviors

Hares are not as prone to destructive behaviors as rabbits, but they may still chew on objects in their environment.

Provide Chew Toys: Offer safe chew toys such as wooden blocks and branches to satisfy their natural chewing instincts.
Protect Valuables: Protect valuable items from chewing by keeping them out of reach.
Monitor Behavior: Monitor the hare’s behavior and address any destructive tendencies early on.

7. Taming and Handling Hares

Taming and handling hares can be challenging due to their skittish nature and strong flight response.

7.1. Building Trust

Patience: Be patient and avoid rushing the process. It can take weeks or months for a hare to trust you.
Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement techniques such as offering treats to reward calm behavior.
Avoid Eye Contact: Avoid direct eye contact, which can be perceived as threatening.
Slow Movements: Move slowly and deliberately around the hare to avoid startling it.

7.2. Safe Handling Techniques

Scooping Method: Gently scoop the hare up from underneath, supporting its chest and hindquarters.
Towel Wrap: Wrap the hare in a towel to provide a sense of security and prevent it from struggling.
Avoid Restraint: Avoid restraining the hare unless absolutely necessary, as this can cause stress and injury.
Short Sessions: Keep handling sessions short and positive.

7.3. Recognizing Stress Signals

Rapid Breathing: Rapid breathing or panting is a sign of stress.
Trembling: Trembling or shaking can indicate fear or anxiety.
Flattened Ears: Flattened ears against the body are a sign of submission or fear.
Aggression: Aggression such as biting or scratching is a sign that the hare is feeling threatened.

If you notice any of these signs, stop handling the hare and allow it to calm down.

8. Releasing a Captive Hare

If you have raised a hare in captivity, releasing it back into the wild is a complex decision that requires careful consideration.

8.1. Is Release Possible?

Age and Health: The hare must be healthy and of an age where it can survive on its own.
Wild Behavior: The hare should exhibit natural wild behaviors such as foraging and predator avoidance.
Acclimation: The hare needs to be gradually acclimated to the outdoors before release.

8.2. Soft Release

A soft release involves gradually introducing the hare to its natural environment while still providing support.

Outdoor Enclosure: Place the hare in a large outdoor enclosure that allows it to experience the natural environment.
Supplemental Feeding: Provide supplemental food and water while the hare adjusts to its new surroundings.
Gradual Independence: Gradually reduce the amount of supplemental food and water as the hare learns to forage on its own.
Monitoring: Monitor the hare’s behavior and health to ensure it is adapting successfully.

8.3. Hard Release

A hard release involves simply releasing the hare into its natural environment without any support.

Suitable Habitat: Choose a release site that provides suitable habitat and is free from hazards such as roads and predators.
Timing: Release the hare at a time of year when food is plentiful and the weather is mild.
Monitoring: Monitor the hare’s behavior and health after release to ensure it is surviving.

8.4. Legal Considerations

Release Permits: Check with your local wildlife authorities to determine if you need a permit to release a captive hare.
Protected Areas: Avoid releasing hares in protected areas or areas where they could cause damage to crops or property.
Disease Risk: Ensure that the hare is free from diseases that could be transmitted to wild populations.

9. Alternatives to Owning a Hare

If owning a hare is not feasible, there are many other options for enjoying the company of animals.

9.1. Domestic Rabbits

Domestic rabbits are a great alternative to hares. They are legal to own, easier to care for, and come in a variety of breeds and colors.

Social and Affectionate: Rabbits can be social and affectionate pets that enjoy interacting with their owners.
Easier to House: Rabbits can be housed indoors or outdoors, depending on the climate and your preferences.
Veterinary Care: Rabbits are commonly kept as pets, so finding a veterinarian who is experienced in treating them is relatively easy.

9.2. Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs are another popular pet option. They are social, easy to care for, and make great companions.

Social Animals: Guinea pigs thrive in pairs or small groups.
Affordable: Guinea pigs are relatively affordable to care for.
Indoor Pets: Guinea pigs are typically kept indoors, which makes them a good choice for people who live in apartments or small homes.

9.3. Hamsters

Hamsters are small, nocturnal rodents that can be fun and engaging pets.

Low Maintenance: Hamsters are relatively low maintenance and easy to care for.
Independent: Hamsters are independent and do not require a lot of attention.
Nocturnal: Hamsters are most active at night, so they may not be a good choice for people who want a pet that is active during the day.

9.4. Supporting Wildlife Conservation

If you are passionate about hares and other wildlife, you can support their conservation through donations, volunteering, and advocacy.

Donate to Conservation Organizations: Support organizations that work to protect hare habitats and populations.
Volunteer at Wildlife Sanctuaries: Volunteer at local wildlife sanctuaries or rehabilitation centers.
Advocate for Wildlife Protection: Advocate for policies that protect wildlife and their habitats.

10. Case Studies: Real-Life Experiences with Hares

To provide a more comprehensive understanding of hare ownership, let’s examine some real-life case studies.

10.1. “Bambi”: A Hare’s Journey from Rescue to Aviary

This case study, originally documented on cottontails-rescue.org.uk, details the story of Bambi, a leveret rescued after a mowing accident.

Initial Rescue: Bambi was found injured and taken in for care.
Hand-Rearing: The rescuer hand-reared Bambi, providing kitten milk and gradually introducing solid foods.
Health Challenges: Bambi faced several health challenges, including gut stasis and a suspected heart attack.
Aviary Life: Bambi eventually moved to a large aviary, where he lived with birds and enjoyed a semi-wild existence.
Ethical Considerations: The case highlights the challenges of balancing the hare’s needs with the desire to provide a good life.

10.2. “Hare Today, Gone Tomorrow”: The Risks of Informal Hare Rehabilitation

This hypothetical case study examines the potential pitfalls of attempting to rehabilitate a hare without proper expertise.

Well-Intentioned Rescue: A family finds an orphaned leveret and decides to raise it themselves.
Inadequate Care: The family lacks the knowledge and resources to provide proper nutrition, housing, and veterinary care.
Health Problems: The leveret develops health problems such as gut stasis and malnutrition.
Failed Release: The leveret is released back into the wild but is unable to survive due to its lack of survival skills.
Ethical Implications: The case highlights the importance of seeking professional help when dealing with injured or orphaned wildlife.

FAQ: Owning a Hare as a Pet

Is it legal to own a hare in the United States?
- The legality of owning a hare in the United States varies by state. Some states have strict laws protecting native wildlife, including hares, while others may allow possession with proper permits. Check with your local and state wildlife agencies.
What are the main differences between hares and rabbits?
- Hares are generally larger than rabbits, with longer ears and legs. Hares are born precocial, while rabbits are born altricial. Hares are solitary animals, while rabbits are social.
What kind of housing do hares require?
- Hares require a large outdoor enclosure with secure fencing to prevent escapes and protect from predators. The enclosure should provide access to fresh grass, shelter, and a dust bathing area.
What do hares eat?
- Hares primarily eat grasses, hay, and vegetables. Their diet should consist mainly of fresh grass and high-quality hay, supplemented with leafy greens and root vegetables.
Are hares good pets for children?
- Hares are not generally recommended as pets for children due to their skittish nature and specific care requirements. Domestic rabbits or guinea pigs are better options for young children.
How do I find a veterinarian who can treat hares?
- Look for a veterinarian who specializes in exotic animals or wildlife. Ask local wildlife rehabilitators or animal shelters for referrals.
What are some common health problems in hares?
- Common health problems in hares include gut stasis, bloat, respiratory infections, parasites, and dental problems.
How do I tame a hare?
- Taming a hare requires patience and positive reinforcement. Handle hares as little as possible and provide a quiet, calm environment.
Can I release a captive hare back into the wild?
- Releasing a captive hare back into the wild is a complex decision that requires careful consideration. The hare must be healthy, exhibit wild behaviors, and be gradually acclimated to the outdoors.
What are some alternatives to owning a hare?
- Alternatives to owning a hare include domestic rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and supporting wildlife conservation organizations.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision

So, can you have a hare as a pet? While it may be tempting to bring one of these beautiful creatures into your home, it’s crucial to consider the legal, ethical, and practical implications. Hares are wild animals with specific needs that are difficult to meet in a captive environment. Responsible pet ownership means prioritizing the animal’s well-being and making informed decisions based on their best interests.

If you’re passionate about animal care and want to explore more suitable pet options or learn about responsible wildlife interactions, visit PETS.EDU.VN. We offer extensive resources on pet care, wildlife conservation, and finding the perfect companion animal for your lifestyle. At PETS.EDU.VN, you can find in-depth guides on rabbit care, guinea pig ownership, and tips for supporting local wildlife organizations.

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