Make Mine Chocolate

“Make Mine Chocolate” is a lively campaign urging people to think twice before giving live rabbits as Easter gifts.

The campaign encourages people to opt for chocolate bunnies instead. This approach helps spread the message of responsible pet ownership while offering a sweet alternative that won’t end up in shelters or abandoned after the holiday.

This initiative highlights several important reasons for its celebration. One key reason is the welfare of rabbits.

Many bunnies given as gifts end up abandoned or in shelters because people often don’t realize the level of care these pets need. Chocolate bunnies offer a cruelty-free alternative that helps reduce the number of unwanted pets.

Additionally, the campaign aims to educate people about the realities of owning a rabbit. Rabbits are not low-maintenance pets; they require as much care as dogs or cats.

Through events and social media, “Make Mine Chocolate” spreads awareness, encouraging people to make informed decisions and choose chocolate or plush bunnies instead.

History of Make Mine Chocolate

The Make Mine Chocolate campaign began in 2002, launched by the Columbus House Rabbit Society.

Its main goal is to educate people about the responsibilities of owning a rabbit and discourage giving live rabbits as Easter gifts. Instead, the campaign promotes giving chocolate bunnies as a safer and more humane alternative.

The campaign emerged as a response to the alarming trend of people buying rabbits for Easter and then abandoning them shortly after.

Many of these rabbits end up in shelters or are left to fend for themselves, which often leads to their death.

The campaign aims to reduce this problem by raising awareness about the long-term care rabbits need and encouraging more responsible gift-giving practices​.

Over the years, Make Mine Chocolate has expanded its reach internationally. It uses various methods to spread its message, including educational events, social media campaigns, and partnerships with other animal welfare organizations.

The campaign’s signature ceramic pin, shaped like a chocolate bunny, has become a symbol of this effort, reminding people to choose chocolate over live animals.​

How to Celebrate Make Mine Chocolate

Craft Sweet Treats

Bake some chocolate bunny cookies! Cut them into bunny shapes, decorate them with colorful icing, and share them with friends.

Baking together can be a fun, creative activity that also supports the campaign’s message of choosing chocolate over live animals. Kids and adults alike will enjoy this sweet and simple gesture.

Host a Bunny-Free Easter Hunt

Organize an Easter egg hunt with chocolate bunnies instead of live rabbits. Hide the treats around the yard or park, and let the hunt begin!

This playful activity keeps the spirit of Easter alive while promoting animal welfare. Participants can enjoy the thrill of the chase without the responsibility of a pet.

Spread the Word

Social media is a powerful tool! Post fun facts and adorable images of chocolate bunnies. Use hashtags to connect with the broader community.

Share stories or infographics about the importance of choosing chocolate over live rabbits. This digital approach can reach a wide audience and amplify the campaign’s message.

Donate to Shelters

Donate supplies or funds to local animal shelters. Organize a fundraising event where participants can buy chocolate bunnies, with proceeds going to rabbit rescues.

This helps provide care for rabbits in need and raises awareness about the Make Mine Chocolate campaign’s mission.

Wear the Pin

Sport a chocolate bunny pin as a conversation starter. These pins are not just stylish but also spark discussions about the campaign.

Encourage others to wear them too, spreading the message in everyday interactions. It’s a small but impactful way to keep the conversation going and support the cause.