Max and Ruby: Animated Leporidae Duo

Max and Ruby are an adorable animated bunny duo on a show geared toward the pre-school crowd. I enjoy watching their show; however, I am concerned about their living situation.

Ruby is the older sister to a much younger Max, who I will put at around 2-years-old. I would say Ruby is around 9-years of age. My unease is the fact that I have yet to see any parental figure taking charge. (Ok, you may argue that the Peanuts gang didn't have their parents around either but their presence was there, even if it was replaced by an ill-tuned trumpet). Every once in a while, Ruby will mention their grandmother (either a raging drunk or an over-worked senior citizen, I'm guessing) but the responsibilities of the household seem to fall on young Ruby.

Ruby cooks Max's meals, gives him his bath, dresses him, puts him to bed. At one point, she even took a job at the local candy store. And she had to bring Max along!

Whenever Ruby tries to have some time to herself or play with a friend her own age, Max is always coming around, repeating a specific word until Ruby gives him the attention he needs. (Max repeats a different word in each episode.)

Despite the fact that they seem to have clean, acceptable living conditions and plenty of well balanced meals, the aspect of bunny neglect still needs to be addressed. A 9-year-old (no matter how mature and competent) should not be taking on full responsibility of her 2-year-old brother, nor is she legally allowed to be working under the table at the candy store. I would suggest a random in-home inspection of the home and surrounding area. If the grandmother is incapable of caring for these bunnies, then an alternative living situation needs to be found.

If there are no other family members who can take them in and care for them properly, then foster care is the only option. However, both children would be good candidates for permanent adoption as they are both well-behaved and helpful around the house.