This is the storefront of a designer's boutique on Prince Street. I have seen store-owners keep their cats and dogs in their stores before as well, but the relationship with the customer is different. In this context, the rabbit -his name is Jack- is more of an accessory than a buddy. The dog usually stays in the back and cats are allowed to wander around and sleep where they please. Jack is confined for practical/sanitary reasons, but someone had to make the conscious choice to build his playpen right in the front of the store instead of the back, which would probably have meant less stress for the animal.
The woman working at the store was very nice- she answered my questions and allowed me to take pictures. The grass you see is fake grass, which she says he does not try to nibble on. He has a waterbowl and a pile of real alfalfa to eat. I asked if he lived in the store- he commutes daily. The woman made it seem as if it were a matter of companionship and convenience to have him there, but he has his own well-outfitted space in the showcase, which he shares with two manequins. It would be hard to believe that they're are not aware of the influence live cute animals have over a potential customer. Having animals around (even pictures of animals) is an extremely reliable sales tactic. In this circumstance, it may also be something for kids and boyfriends to play with so a woman can spend a longer time shopping.
Jack's presence is not unlike the pet adoption campaign tables seen outside of parks and pet stores, that feature live and eligible dogs and cats. However, the connection between the animal and the product is less direct in the case of Jack. He is "styled" just like everything else in the store. Because it is a high-end boutique, it would be too tacky if he were to wear a little vest that said "This week 20% off everything," but maybe not so much if it were a neighborhood vintage store in Brooklyn.
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