San Diego, CA (February 12, 2011) — According to the Chinese Zodiac, 2011 marks the Year of the Rabbit. People born in the Year of the Rabbit are known to be friendly individuals who enjoy the company of others, are gracious, kind, and exhibit good manners. Since 1.4 million households have rabbits as family members, it seems the same can be said for these furry friends. In honor of the Chinese New Year and National Adopt a Rabbit Month, PETCO stores nationwide are hosting special Meet the Critters events that celebrate all things rabbit on February 12-13, 2011 from 1-2 pm. PETCO stores do not retail rabbits, however, they work closely with a number of adoption groups to place rabbits in forever homes and hope to find loving homes for even more rabbits during this event. PETCO’s Meet the Critters will be a free family-friendly event enjoyable for people of all ages and rabbit owners can bring their cuddly pets in-store for a special meet and greet. Kids and adults alike have the opportunity to hold, play and learn about rabbits from one of PETCO’s knowledgeable staff members. Attendees can also participate in an educational seminar to learn first-hand why rabbits make the perfect pet, as well as learn about the pet’s special care and nutrition needs. Most would be surprised to learn there are many rabbits in shelters in need of a home. Select PETCO stores will partner with local shelters to have rabbits available for adoption at the event. Rabbits are known to make excellent house pets for many reasons. Here are the top reasons why: ? They are quiet, but still very social, playful and interactive ? Rabbits are easily housetrained and generally clean ? They are affectionate and companionable animals ? They super soft and cuddly cute! About PETCO PETCO is a privately held specialty retailer that provides products, services and advice that make it easier for our customers to be great pet parents. We operate more than 1,000 stores in 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as a leading pet products and information destination at http://www.petco.com . Our nonprofit organization, The PETCO Foundation, has raised nearly $70 million since its inception in 1999 to help promote and improve the welfare of companion animals. In conjunction with the Foundation, we work with and support about 6,200 local animal welfare groups across the country to help find homes for more than 200,000 adoptable animals every year.