Here are five tips, plus what to watch out for!
Bunnies are known for their gentle demeanor, cute faces, and playful personalities. Having one in the family can be a rewarding and life-changing experience. But did you know that many are given away, abandoned, or neglected?
Giving a rescue Bunny a loving and caring home not only provides them with a second chance at life but also brings joy and companionship to your own. Curious about adopting one for yourself? In this quick guide, we’ll explore different places where you can adopt rescue Bunnies, as well as provide essential starter tips on proper care for these lovable creatures.
CONTACTING THE RIGHT PEOPLE
Ideally, a local animal shelter organization is a perfectly reliable place to start looking for a rescue Bunny. Unfortunately, those who rescue Bunnies are not that common in the Philippines. However, there’s hope!
Instead of dedicated physical animal shelters, Bunnies are often adopted through Facebook groups and pages. Through these, hundreds of human guardians try to look for a forever home for these Rabbits.
It’s also through these platforms where you can connect with others who can offer you
advice and support based on experience. A word of caution: Be sure to verify the info they share as misinformation is common. Always double-check!
What’s great about using online platforms to look for Bunnies to adopt is that you can be specific in your search: It’s convenient to ask about their age, personalities, and other things you might want to ask about.
UP AT DAWN!
Rabbits are crepuscular animals, meaning they like to come out around dawn and dusk to avoid the extreme heat of the day as well as nighttime predators.
ADOPTION PROCESS
Some groups screen the people looking to foster their Bunnies to make sure that the animals end up in a safe home. This is for the benefit of everyone, from the shelter to the Bunny and their potential adopter.
Be patient with the interviewer’s requests, such as Zoom interviews, and with their seemingly personal questions, such as your home address and way of life. They just want to make sure that these Bunnies end up finding their perfect match.
BIG BOY!
The world’s largest Rabbit, named Darius, holds the Guinness World Record for his enormous size.
Darius, a Continental Giant Rabbit, measures over 4 feet 3 inches long (129 centimeters) and weighs around 50 pounds (22.6 kilograms). He hails from the United Kingdom and requires a special hutch to accommodate his impressive size.
A Continental Giant Rabbit named Darius was declared the longest Rabbit in the world by the Guinness World Record in 2010.
STARTER TIPS
We know it’s exciting to adopt a rescue Bunny, but it’s also important to remember the responsibility that comes with it.
As a Rabbit’s new caretaker, you must provide them with a safe and nurturing environment to make sure they live long and happy lives. Here are some tips to get you started.
TIP #1 BUNNY-PROOF YOUR HOME
Before bringing your Bunny home, ensure that your living space is Bunny-proofed.
Remove any potential hazards, such as toxic plants, electrical cords, or small objects, that they could chew on or ingest.
Even having Dogs or Cats in the same house can prove risky, so be sure to take the time to introduce them properly, and only if you fully trust that your other furry friends won’t attack the new Bunny.
TIP #2 ENSURE ADEQUATE SPACE
Provide a spacious and comfortable enclosure for your Bunny, allowing them to move around freely. A Rabbit-proofed room or playpen is ideal for supervised playtime outside the enclosure.
Keeping them in a confined space where they can’t even turn around will not only cause them to get depressed but also cause premature death.
TIP #3 GIVE THE RIGHT FOOD
A balanced diet of fresh hay, pellets, and a variety of fresh vegetables is crucial for your Bunny’s health.
Always provide clean water (ideally in a stainless steel container) and monitor their food intake to avoid health issues. Don’t forget to give them some vitamin boosts once in a while, too.
TIP #4 PROVIDE STIMULATION
Bunnies are intelligent and active animals, so offer toys, tunnels, and hiding spots to keep them mentally and physically engaged.
Regularly play with them and spend time with them to keep them happy and bonded to you.
TIP #5 BRING TO THE VET
Schedule regular check-ups with a Rabbit-savvy veterinarian to ensure your Bunny’s health and to catch any potential health issues early.
Considering how many people have canine and feline companions, Rabbits are relatively less common, so it may be best to look for an exotic veterinarian or Rabbit specialist.
HOP, SKIP, JUMP!
Rabbit jumping, also known as Rabbit hopping, is a popular sport in some countries. Bunnies are trained to navigate obstacle courses, showcasing their agility and jumping abilities.
COMMON ILLNESSES TO WATCH OUT FOR
Rescue Bunnies may have unique health challenges due to their past experiences or lack of proper care. Understanding common illnesses can help you provide appropriate care and seek veterinary attention when needed.
DENTAL WOES
Dental issues, such as overgrown teeth or malocclusion, are prevalent in rescue Bunnies because many of them never received toys or material for them to chew on.
Make an appointment with the vet if your Bunny seems to have dental problems. Regular check-ups and proper chew toys can help prevent and manage them.
GUT PROBLEMS
Diet changes, stress, and improper nutrition in the past can lead to gastrointestinal problems in rescue Bunnies.
To help them adjust to their new life, provide a balanced diet with plenty of hay, which is essential for their digestive health in the long run.
RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS
Bunnies kept in poor living conditions or overcrowded environments with little ventilation may be more susceptible to respiratory infections. They might not show up immediately, but if no precautions are taken, they might start showing symptoms.
As soon as you bring your rescue home, make sure to monitor their breathing and seek veterinary care if you notice any signs of respiratory distress.
PARASITES
Some rescue Bunnies may have internal or external parasites that you may not even notice at first. There are a few telltale signs, but don’t wait for them to appear to take preventive measures.
This is why regular veterinary check-ups and appropriate parasite prevention are vital for their well-being. Having them dewormed regularly can help them stay healthy.
BEHAVIORAL ISSUES
Some rescues may show some signs of trauma or neglect and may end up biting, kicking, or running away more than others.
It’s important to always take it slow and build trust with your new friend. Provide a safe, understanding, and patient environment to help them come out of their shell and fully trust you.
TOUGH TIMES
Rescued Bunnies have probably been through tough times, so be prepared to provide them the accommodations they need to adjust to their new home.
If you’ve read through this whole article and feel that your heart is truly ready to welcome home your very own rescue Bunny, then get ready because you’re about to embark on a fulfilling life journey with your new furry pal. Whatever platform you choose to adopt from, always remember to prioritize proper care and attention to create a safe and loving space for your new furry companion.
Over time, your rescue Bunny will hop into your heart and become a cherished member of your family in the years to come.
