Small companion animals generally don’t get as much attention as their feline and canine counterparts. They should, but not the sort of attention that has been lavished upon them over the last several weeks; clever marketing campaigns have inextricably linked these small critters with the Easter holiday.

Soon shelters will be flooded with rabbits and other small companions bought on impulse from pet stores by well-meaning parents who thought these cute animals would make an appropriate holiday present. That is unfortunate because small companion animals tend to linger in shelters much longer than cats and dogs. Though they have especially endearing personalities, it’s not uncommon for rabbits, guinea pigs and other “petite pets” to wait weeks or even months before finding a home.

It would be great if cat and dog lovers broadened their horizons and considered a rat, hamster, guinea pig or rabbit for their next pet! Their small size and relative ease of care make them ideal for households that have limited space, but larger-than-average hearts. And, with proper education, it is possible to introduce a small companion into a multi-species household.

Adopting a small companion or any animal for that matter, from a shelter or rescue group is the best option. Pet stores may seem like a quick, inexpensive option, but they only exacerbate the pet overpopulation problem. A responsible organization will ensure that all adoption animals are spayed or neutered, and in good health. Plus, adoption counselors will match adopters to the right companion for their lifestyle.

Guinea Pigs

Any guinea pig enthusiast will tell you that these are very social animals. While young children are naturally drawn to the guinea pig’s adorable physique, it’s essential that adults always supervise their handling and care. What makes guinea pigs so appealing as pets are their charming personalities. Perhaps their most endearing trait is a tendency to squeak when excited! Guinea pigs thrive on company, so adopting two pig pals is a great option.

Bunnies

Rabbits make wonderful companions. In fact, they can become an integral part of the family for those willing to provide a loving indoor environment. Well-socialized bunnies enjoy being handled and are comfortable around gentle children (with parental supervision). And, rabbits often get along with other animals.

These personable and affectionate creatures enjoy play and frolic. Interesting toys like paper towel tubes and untreated wicker provide much-needed outlets for a bunny’s desire to chew. Many rabbits will even faithfully use a litterbox!

Rodents

Rats are intelligent, social critters that prefer to be in the company of people and other rats. Quiet and easy to care for, rats are especially good with children; and yes, they are quite clean. Frisky and playful, hamsters are entertaining to watch. They are naturally solitary animals, except with their human friends. Being fastidiously clean creatures, hamsters prefer frequent cleaning of their habitat and nesting materials. Hamsters are also most active at night.

In general, rodents enjoy supervised time sharing affections outside of their habitat. Durable, safe toys to chew on keep them mentally and physically fit. Cardboard boxes, baskets and durable plastic items make simple places to hide and double as cozy homes. Bedding should be soft and absorbent.

The Marin Humane Society currently has more than a dozen small companion animals available for adoption. For those who are willing to educate themselves, and can commit to the long-term responsibility, petite pets really do make wonderful companions.

Carrie Harrington is the communications manager at the Marin Humane Society.

Tails of Marin appears every Saturday in the Home & Garden section of the Marin Independent Journal