I received a call this afternoon from a new, young rabbit owner. Two weeks ago she bought her first rabbit from a local pet store. Over the following 10 days she experienced the death of two rabbits. Her first one and then another when the store replaced it.

It may come as a surprise, but pet stores don't generally buy straight from breeders. They buy from the meat/livestock auctions. The auctions are not bad places and are generally kept very clean. It's the sellers that are the problem. Some of the "backyard" meat breeders don't adhere to the same set of ethics that larger, corporate breeders do. They see little problem with selling rabbits that are too young or are sick. To them, the meat is going to fetch the same price no matter what. And to their credit, they don't necessarily believe that the rabbits they're selling are going to unsuspecting pet buyers.

Hobby and show breeders are your best bet. You may pay a bit more (my prices range between $50 and $70 for a baby), but most hobby and show breeders adhere to very strict ethics. When considering who to buy from--ask for the availability of a pedigree,  health standards that the rabbitry follows, and ask to see the barn your rabbit is coming from. If a breeder doesn't allow you to come to their property (many won't), ask why not, and then use your judgment as to whether that's a fair reason or not. Do not buy an animal sight unseen! Make sure it's healthy and has the temperament you want. (Older is better for great temperaments)

Finally, if you do buy from a pet store. Make sure it's one you trust. And  make sure they have a health and return policy! Not all pet stores are bad (I sell directly to 7 of them); but check them out and don't just buy from the first store you go into.

Good luck finding your dream bunny!