HopperHome Bunny Blog

Middle School Student Raises Funds for Great Lakes Rabbit Sanctuary

2012-01-29T19:07:00.000-08:00

An eighth-grader raised $1,040 over a year's time for the Great Lakes Rabbit Sanctuary and presented the gift to their Board last weekend. The GLRS is a wonderful sanctuary providing care for abandoned, and neglected domestic rabbits, and adopts them out to forever homes. According to the news article in the Ypslanti Courier "Holly became inspired to help after volunteering at the sanctuary one day." She was creative in her goal to raise the money since she designed and crafted bunny charms out of clay. "I looked online at Petfinder to see all the current bunnies up for adoption. I based each little charm off of a real bunny," she said. (Photo credit: Ypslanti Courier)

The Babe of Bunnies

2012-01-29T18:12:00.000-08:00

This video is making the rounds on the internet now. I suspect Champis (the herding bunny) isn't neutered. I suspect the behavior is territorial on the bunny's part. Rabbits are herd animals themselves and my lop enjoys herding cats in the evenings. The sheep are more cooperative subjects in this video.

On the Wild Side: Snowshoe Hare in Socks

2012-01-26T23:18:00.000-08:00

Nate Zeman caught this photo of a Snowshoe Hare in the middle of his color change. And, I thought domesticated rabbits had all the fun with colorful fur. The Snowshoe Hare turns white in the fall after a summer in a brown coat. But if it is a year with no snow on the ground like it has been in some areas of North America this year, the hares are conspicuously exposed to predators and human hunters. All it takes is a dusting of snow so the hares are camouflaged. They also burrow in the snow to stay warm and snow helps them get to more food sources. If several inches of snow falls, the hares are able to reach barks and twigs higher up on the trees. By the way, there is a genetically rare all black snowshoe hare who have a very hard time surviving winters due to their contrasting color in the snow. See Nate Zeman's amazing fine art photography of wildlife at his website. He also has a few photos of the little wild lagomorphs known as Pikas, too. (Photo: www.natezeman.com website)

Rabbits Polish Nails in Style

2012-01-26T22:37:00.000-08:00

One of the Hopperhome Bunny Blog readers sent along this photo from Japan of some bunny inspired nail art. If I had a manicure like that, I wouldn't be able to clean up after bunnies twice a day without breaking several of those small works of art.

Michigan's Critter Cafe & Rescue Hopping with a Heart for Small Animals

2012-01-26T22:29:00.000-08:00

Christine Lea Bishop is the founder of the Critter Cafe and Rescue in Fruitport Township near Muskegon, Michigan. In the photo below she is holding Twister, a beautiful Flemish Giant rabbit who was rescued last November. Christine and her small (except for Twister) animal rescue operation were featured in an article in the Muskegeon Chronicle this week. The article also includes a video and more photos of Critter Cafe's menagerie of residents. Check it out at this link. (Photo Credit: Ken Stevens, Muskegeon Chronicle)

Feeding too Much Fruit is Bananas

2012-01-26T22:12:00.000-08:00

First, I want to thank Dana Krempels, Ph.D. for writing some of the most informative and helpful articles on the internet about companion rabbits. You can see them at this link. This past week her article "What Should I Feed My Bunny?" was referenced in the UK's Daily Mail online. The video shows a bunny cradled in its caretaker's arms eating a banana. Fortunately, the journalist sought out some expert advice online and located Dana's information on feeding rabbits. (I also appreciate Dana's sense of humor on her website - see this link. )

I cringed when I first saw the video since it sends all the wrong messages about how to handle and feed a domesticated rabbit. First, it appeared to me the rabbit could be in jeopardy of choking. Even when I syringe feeding a sick rabbit, I try to keep them upright on their paws in a natural position. After all, rabbits were built to sit on their haunches and graze grasses. As much as we want to anthrophomorphize our pets, rabbits do not have the same anatomy as human babies. Also, the rabbit's posture was close to inducing tonic immobility. There has been some controversy over “trancing” or “hypnotizing” rabbits. I no longer practice nor support the use of this technique. I trust the science and the scientists who have studied Tonic Immobility (TI) in animals and particularly rabbits. The studies show this phenomenon is “a short-term reversible paralysis which can be readily induced in susceptible ‘prey species’ such as rabbits.” It's stressful, not calming. See my web page on TI at this link.

I have never met a rabbit that didn't have a "sweet tooth." But fruit is high in sugar and causes weight gain. Plus, it upsets the balance of bacteria in the cecum and can cause many medical issues both short and long term. A diet primarily consisting of timothy hay, some leafy green vegetables and very small bits of fruit once or maybe twice a day may seem boring to us humans, but it will promote a long and healthy life in rabbits. One of my young bunnies (8 years old) who just ran very fast circles around the living room and joined me at the computer is living proof.

72 Abandoned Rabbits in Monterey County California

2012-01-17T12:32:00.000-08:00

Yikes! 72 rabbits were abandoned in a field in Monterey County near a dump. Just look at this herd of beautiful bunnies who deserve a chance including chocolate point Californian and classic white New Zealands breeds plus some with variations of lovely agouti (brown) fur. The good people at Animal Friends Rescue Project are helping Monterey Couny Animal Services with the rescue and veterinarians from Monterey Avian and Exotic Clinic will donate spay/neuter surgeries to get the bunnies ready adoption. So if you live in this part of California help is urgently needed for foster homes, families to adopt and donations. You can contact AFRP Volunteer Coordinator (Lisa) at lisabunnybuns@aol.com. Donations to assist with the rabbits can be made at www.animalfriendsrescue.org mention Marina Rabbits. Photo by AFRP.

English Angora Rabbit Keeps Yarn Shop in Stitches

2012-01-08T20:12:00.000-08:00

A rabbit is the star at Two Knit Wits, a specialty yarn shop in Oak Ridge Commons shopping center in North Carolina, where a small, hand-written sign that says: “Please watch for bunny.” The sign refers to Hank, a handsome English Angora rabbit that is the store's mascot. Read article (Photo Credit: Annette Joyce, Northwest Observer)

Snow White Missing in Dubai

2012-01-06T07:38:00.000-08:00

Snow White is a rabbit (see photo on right) and he is missing in Dubai. Yes, Dubai - about as far away from my home in the Pacific Northwest (US) in culture and distance as you can get. However, after reading the article about the rabbit in the Gulf News by Imran Kazmi, I know we have a lot in common - we both love our rabbits. The article says "Snow White is very friendly. There is hardly a visitor who hasn't been touched by his human affinity and playfulness. At night we cuddle him and keep him warm and cozy. Additionally, we don't feed him anything but hay and fresh green vegetables or grass. I don't know where he is and how he is faring, I can only hope and pray that he's alive and happy." I am sure rabbits are not common companion animals in Dubai since I rarely read about stories about them from this part of the world. So Snow White would surely stand out if he were hopping around in another yard. I hope Imran finds the rabbit, because the pain of losing a pet is universal. (If anyone happens to live in Dubai and sees the bunny contact information@ahappyworld.info)

Bunnies Abandoned at Doorstep on Christmas Eve

2012-01-05T08:07:00.000-08:00

Not just one, but two sweet little bunnies were dumped at a rabbit sanctuary on Christmas Eve near Coventry (UK). The women who run the sanctuary think the person who dumped the rabbits may have replaced them with a puppy since a puppy pad went missing. Fortunately, there are people like Lynn Beasley, who runs the Rabbit and Guinea Pig Sanctuary (Rags) with her sister Karen in Keresley who saw the car speeding away from their home. They opened their front door to find the abandoned rabbits sitting in a cardboard box. The sanctuary is full to capacity with abandoned rabbits and guinea pigs so the two female bunnies spent Christmas in the bathroom. The women worry they may not be able to continue operating without more donations.

As I have said many times before, no matter what the reason, people must do the right thing and relinquish their animals to shelters (find a no-kill shelter if that’s a concern) instead of dumping them on doorsteps, in parks or in the woods. If the Keresley sisters had not been home or were gone for the holidays, the rabbits might have met a very cruel fate. To donate to RAGS see their link above. Photo credit (Coventry Telegraph – pictured Lynn Keresley and two Christmas Eve bunnies)

Once Again Firefighters Come to the Rescue

2012-01-04T07:49:00.000-08:00

Easton, MD volunteer firefighter Brett Cover holds a large pet rabbit injured Tuesday afternoon in a fire. The rabbit was given oxygen at the scene and taken to a St. Michaels, MD veterinarian for treatment. The rabbit's cage was next to a barn-like structure engulfed in flames. The bunny was treated using an oxygen mask designed for animals which are now becoming common as fire rescue equipment. The bunny has several injuries and is in critical condition. Why the rabbit was housed next to the building remains a mystery as well as who is responsible for the rabbit. No one had claimed the rabbit as of last night. However, once the rabbit is recovered it will be taken to the Talbot Humane Society. I'd say those firefighters deserve a paws up for this "hare"raising rescue. (Photo credit: Erin Fluharty) Read article

Ten New Years Resolutions for 2012 from a Long Time Rabbit Fanatic

2012-01-03T14:40:00.000-08:00

I will never get too close to a shedding rabbit on my way out to work again: White rabbit hair sticks to my work clothes most days. I had an early meeting and couldn't find one of my many lint rollers in my office desk. I spent an hour with scotch tape frantically removing rabbit hair. Still, it looked like I was wearing an angora sweater. No bunny hugging until evening.
I won’t assume I can build an inventive playhouse for my rabbits with just a handsaw and hammer/nails: This type of project screams out for full scale engineering with drawings certified by an Architect. The rabbits love their cardboard playhouses I order online anyway.
I will not read every news item that has “rabbit” and “menu” in the same title: It’s too depressing. I am horrified that the third most popular pet in the USA is butchered for food. I want to toss pots and pans at the trendy chefs who are serving these wonderful creatures as an entree. These are the same breeds I have as companions. Don’t these people have dogs and cats. Never mind. I will think of positive ways to discourage rabbit slaughter for pompous palates.
I will never think because other people call me a rabbit expert I will be able to bond two rabbits: Pansy and Sweetie are not interested and it has been almost a year. Car rides, vacuum cleaner sounds, squirt guns, neutral locations and all manner of stress are futile (I don’t like this approach anyway). Positive reinforcement with treats, toys and affection is pointless. They will get other partners. There is a first time for everything even after all these years.
I will not take for granted my home is “bunny proofed:” It just takes one new rabbit with a skeletal system that must fold or dislocate enough to get around the normal bunny barriers I have installed. Also, he knows what those back legs are for – jumping. I mean jumping really high over all man (or woman) made barriers.
I will never bring home another bale of hay from the grange before checking it first: A 60 lbs. bale of hay is a nice place to hide for bugs, small mammals and other creatures of a more reptilian nature. Enough said. I hate surprises.
I will never be embarrassed about my obsession with bunny poop again: One of my rabbits recently lived through a bout of GI Stasis because I was paying attention to his litter box contents and took immediate action. It may not work as a conversation starter at a cocktail party, but bunny poop is worth talking about.
I will never be flabbergasted about reasons rabbits are relinquished to shelters after this one: "The rabbit doesn't match my furniture since I redecorated." I don't think this person should ever have another pet again. Interior design trends are ever changing just like her concept of commitment to a living creature that can live to 10 to 12 years old. Go figure.
I will always pay attention to the sensory abilities of a rabbit: This past year a rabbit was credited with saving a family from a house fire in Alaska. Then there was the bunny, Hammie, who alerted a mother her daughter was having a life threatening diabetic episode not just once, but twice. Plus, a raccoon might have made it through a window if it weren't for a vigilant female bunny who lives with me. That's heroic in my book.
I will never stop having admiration for the commitment of rabbit rescuers: The 2011 Year of the Rabbit has been like every other year for rescuers - full of rabbits. There have been many, many examples in the news all year. You know who you are, you are one person saving rabbits out of your home, you are fostering bunnies, you run a sanctuary, you are part of a organization like a House Rabbit Society chapter, an independent rescue or a shelter. You are everywhere in the world where there are domesticated rabbits. You make big sacrifices for small long eared creatures with your time and resources. You are amazing.

Rabbit Hopping in Minnesota Ya You Betcha!

2011-12-22T07:55:00.000-08:00

Yesterday the Minnesota Star Tribune featured an article on the Sunday "rabbit agility" classes held at the Minnesota Companion Rabbit Society (MCRS). Back when I lived in Minnesota I met Joanna Campbell an original founder of the MCRS and I'm not surprised "kaninhoppning" training and events are hosted by this dedicated rabbit rescue group. The sport originated in the late 1970s in Sweden, and it is now spreading around the world and very popular in the UK. As the article noted "America's 6 million-plus pet rabbits come in all shapes, sizes and colors, and they are imminently trainable, sharing traits with other favorite pets including dogs and horses. And they have attitude." I can certainly attest to that since every rabbit I have ever met has a strong and distinct personality with some displaying a little more rabbitude than others. There are 20 or so bunnies in the MCRS classes, and the 50-plus participating in the ensuing recreational confab called Hoppy Hour. Boy, those Minnesotans sure know how to have fun with their rabbits . . . ya you betcha! (Photo credit: Minneapolis Star Tribune)

Rabbit Rescue Calendars for 2012

2011-12-21T11:06:00.000-08:00

The 2011 Year of the Rabbit may be almost over, but for rabbit rescuers every year is a Year of the Rabbit. A good friend just sent me a rabbit rescue calendar as a Christmas gift (Thanks Karen!). It is the first one listed here created by the Missouri House Rabbit Society and it’s perfect for one room in my home. I was inspired to look for more calendars for other rooms so I did a little research online. What a great way help homeless bunnies and get a beautiful calendar, too.
Below is a selection of rabbit calendars created by rabbit rescue organizations. I know I may have missed some so if you have a rabbit rescue (anywhere in the world), and a calendar for 2012, email me and I will add it to this post. Click on each rescue name link above each calendar to go to their website to order.

Link: Missouri House Rabbit Society – St. Louis

Link: WildRescue, Inc./Rabbit Rescue

Link: Great Lakes Rabbit Sanctuary

Link: Little Miracles Rabbit Rescue

Link: Midwest Rabbit Rescue & Re-Home

Link: House Rabbit Network

Link: Sweet Binks Rabbit Rescue, Inc.

Link: The Bunny Bunch SPCR

Link: Los Angeles Rabbit Foundation

Link: Rabbit Rescue Inc. (Canada)

Think Twice Before Buying a Rabbit as a Gift

2011-12-20T22:14:00.000-08:00

Lisa Reemer, Founder of the No Splitting Hares Bunny Rescue, was interviewed recently for an article in the Algonquin Patch. She rescues rabbits, as well as hamsters and guinea pigs, year around in Algonquin, IL. Over the past week she has had more pickups of unwanted rabbits than ever before from shelters who are euthanizing soon. Reemer, and her 17 volunteers, cover two counties to bring theses bunnies back to Reemer's farmhouse, where she shelters more than 250 animals and works to place them in adoptive homes. The article discusses the commitment of keeping a rabbit and why rabbits (and any other animal for that matter) do not make good "gifts" at the holidays. (Also, I have a list on Hopperhome with several reasons not to give a rabbit as a gift at this Link.) The No Splitting Hares Bunny Rescue has many, many beautiful rabbits available for adoption on www.Petfinder.com and pictured are two adorable dwarfs ready for adoption.

Happy New Year to Bob Barker & Mr. Rabbit

2011-12-20T14:51:00.000-08:00

The Washington Post featured an article about celebrity pets and New Year's Resolutions. Here is what retired game show host Bob Barker’s has to say about his 8-year-old rabbit, Mr. Rabbit. The bunny already follows Barker around the house “helping me in every way he can.” If Barker could ask for more, it would be “to use his box every time, not just when it’s convenient.”
And Mr. Rabbit’s resolution for Barker? What else? “To continue urging folks to have their pets spayed and neutered — including rabbits.” Now about that litter issue . . . maybe some nice botanical hay in the litter box . . .
Thanks to Bob and Mr. Rabbit for saying exactly the right thing to help rabbits! (Photo credit: Washington Post)

On the Wild Side: US Forest Service Saves Riparian Brush Rabbit from Floods

2011-12-09T10:32:00.000-08:00

Last March heavy storms created above average rainfall and the San Joaquin and Stanislaus Rivers began to flood threatening the the habitat of the small Riparian Brush Rabbit found in the San Joaquin River National Wildlife Refuge (NWR). This refuge is located in Stanislaus County, California consists of 6,500 acres of riparian woodlands, wetlands, and grasslands. In other words, perfect habititat for these little lagomorphs. The Riprarian Brush Rabbit is is a federally endangered species. Tbey are similar to a cottontail, but with slight differences such as their smaller tail and no black color tips on the ears. They can swim, but with no high ground to escape to the rabbits were in trouble. The Endangered Species Recovery Program (ESRP) and refuge staff mounted a rescue in rough conditions to prevent the drowning of as many these rabbits as possible. The rabbits are good climbers and boats were used to find and remove them from trees in low areas. They were then ferried to newly constructed bunny mounds and other high ground. Over a period of several days 125 Riparian Brush Rabbits were moved and saved from drowning. (Photo Credit: CSU Stanislaus, ESRP staff) Here is a link to a video of the rescue effort.

Everything Came Up Roses for this Rabbit

2011-12-09T08:45:00.000-08:00

Who knew munching on roses in someone's yard would find a rabbit a new home. No one knows how BunnyBoy ended up in the yard. But he found a new home and that's what matters. According to a brief article in the Weekly Times Messenger (UK), the road where the house is located is a very busy street. (No wonder the rose bushes seemed like a safe and tasty place to be.) Fortunately BunnyBoy was taken in by the Wilkins family including their cat. Ms Wilkins said. “He’s very affectionate. He loves me cuddling him. He’s very smoochy.” Awwww. . .
(Photo credit: Weekly Times Messenger)

Santa Cruz Rabbit Spay-A-Thon, A Model of Generosity

2011-12-08T08:41:00.000-08:00

The Santa Cruz Examiner published a very informative article on the efforts to spay or neuter 32 of the 114 rabbits confiscated several weeks ago from a breeder in Northern California. Organized by Dr. Hilary Stern from Animal Hospital of Soquel and Heather Bechtel, founder of The Rabbit Haven, two other vets also volunteered their services including Dr. Erika Sullenberger from Animal Hospital of Soquel and Dr. Sarah Hawklyn from Aptos-Creekside Pet Hospital. Vet techs also offered their help as well as volunteers from the Santa Cruz shelter and The Rabbit Haven. To alter 32 rabbits in one day requires coordination of many logistical details. That's a lot of precious bunnies to keep safe and healthy during the surgery process from pre-op preparations to recovery. Considering how easily rabbits can be stressed and what the rabbits had already endured, this Spay-A-Thon was truly a success. It should serve as a model to other animal rescue organizations and shelters faced with altering a high number of animals to enable adoption out to permanent homes. Read more here. The article also includes a slide show of the Spay-A-Thon. (Photo credit: The Rabbit Haven)

Bunny Paradise Brings Retirees Together

2011-12-05T08:11:00.000-08:00

An article in the Helena, MT (helenair.com) newspaper featured the Johnsons who for the last 15 years have rescued pet rabbits and created a habitat for wild rabbits. Previously they had been in show breeding. No more. They operate a sanctuary for rabbits which they soley fund themselves, although, they do accept donations such as rabbit feed. Right now they have about 250 rabbits and visit retirement homes and daycare centers. They bring along a few of the rabbits so kids and adults can learn about them and enjoy being around them. “We’re a retirement home for rabbits,” Margaret Johnson said of their Helena Valley facility, Bunny Paradise Sanctuary. (Photo credit: helenair.com)

Odd Rabbit News This Week

2011-12-02T18:32:00.000-08:00

There were several off the wall news reports related to rabbits this week and here is a sample of just a few of those stories that made the news:

Ruff Three Weeks: A terrier, Bilbo, got stuck in a rabbit warren in the UK for 3 long weeks. Firefighters told Bilbo’s owners the warren's tunnels would collapse if they tried to dig him out so they waited until the dog made his own way out. After 20 days, the poor pup had lost enough weight to squeeze out of the tight spot. Fortunately, it is reported Bilbo is doing fine now. Rabbit warrens can be as deep as 9 ft. and are dug primarily by females. A few years ago I heard about one single warren in Europe that was home to 450 rabbits and had 2,000 entrances.

Cat Flap: Also, in the UK, the beautiful Angora rabbit pictured on the right was brought home by a cat. The feline dragged the bunny right through the cat flap and gave him to his humans as a present. Luckily, the rabbit was examined by a vet afterwards and was not physically hurt. Although, I wonder if rabbits have their own form of PSTD or at the very least a ‘cat phobia” after a close encounter like this. Attempts are being made to find the rabbit’s previous home.

Braking for Bunnies: I brake for rabbits, but a woman in Oklahoma swerved her truck to avoid a rabbit that ran into the road and crashed her vehicle. She was 132 ft. off the road and struck a metal culvert. She is okay. The bunny did make it across the road.

Amazing Hop: In case you missed it last week, the CBS TV Show, Amazing Racing featured "Kaninhop" (rabbit agility obstacle races) in Denmark for Episode 8. Teams set-up the obstacle course and chose a rabbit. One team picked out Hopper to run their course. Hopper was good, but he knocked over one of the obstacles. The team tried another rabbit named Speckles who jumped through the course perfectly. Afterwards, Bill exclaimed, "Oh Speckles, we’re gonna take you home!” A competing team member, Marcus gave a pep talk to his rabbit, telling it, "I’ve had a frustrating day. Right now you can really help my frustration, okay?” The rabbit probably doesn't understand English being from Denmark, but the bunny gracefully hopped over the obstacles. An appreciative Marcus professed his love for the bunny. The rabbit had put Marcus' team in fourth place.

Chicken or Rabbit: An eight month old rabbit in Finland was a free gift with a farmer’s purchase of chickens. The farmer said, "When I went to the hen house, I noticed he was sitting on the eggs. Later I watched through the window how he jumped on the beam, failed, tried again and with a lot of practice eventually he stayed up there." He also “sits on the beam between the hens and under their wings." Everyone says the rabbit thinks he’s a chicken. Maybe the bunny hasn’t had a chance to be a rabbit, or perhaps he is simply being himself with his feathered friends. Most domesticated rabbits will bond with other animals so his behavior is very rabbit-like.

114 Rabbits Confiscated from Breeder - Ready for New Homes

2011-12-01T07:50:00.000-08:00

After the confiscation of 114 rabbits from a breeder, the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter in California is overflowing with gorgeous rabbits for adoption. (Just look at the photo on the left - very sweet!) According to the shelter staff, "The conditions these rabbits were living in were abominable, yet they are overwhelmingly outgoing and handleable, a testament to their resilient spirits." There were so many rabbits the shelter is housing them at two locations and has teamed up with Rabbit Haven volunteers to make sure the bunnies have had the best care. The bunnies are being neutered and spayed and some are already available to go to good homes. If you are interested in adopting, becoming a volunteer or fostering, visit the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter or go online to www.scanimalshelter.org.

Rabbit Makes a Statement on Law Journal Cover

2011-11-29T19:25:00.000-08:00

The Oregon Law Journal just published their new issue yesterday and a white rabbit graced the front cover (pic on right). The issue featured an article about the work of the Oregon Humane Society in Portland. I am originally from Portland and proud they have a very active house rabbit community. The Rabbit Advocates were originally part of the OHS and became a separate nonprofit entity back in 2002. They are a very dynamic organization with activities for rabbit lovers every month. The Oregon House Rabbit Society chapter also operates a sanctuary. Both of these organizations have volunteers who work tirelessly to educate the public about rabbits and adopt out rabbits. Portland, OR has long been a community of animal lovers, Recently Lewis and Clark College announced it will have the first law school in the world that offers an advanced degree in animal law. By the way, I'd say the jury is in on the photo - that is one beautiful white rabbit. See the Law Journal article here about the humane society. (Photo credit: Oregon Law Journal)

One Hop for Mankind - Rabbits in Space

2011-11-24T23:13:00.000-08:00

A couple of days ago I was amazed to find a photo of two unlikely space travelers, a white dog and a grey rabbit. Back in the late 1950’s space programs in the Soviet Union (Russia) and United States used animals to make high altitude and orbital flights. Tragically, many times they were one-way trips. It was inhumane on a lot of levels. Otvazhnaya (the dog) and Marnushka (the rabbit) braved a high altitude test flight on July 2, 1959 aboard an R2-A rocket (pictured on the right). Another dog, Snezhinka, also went on the flight. Fortunately, all three animals were recovered successfully. This rabbit went on to make five more successful high altitude test flights in the following year. Then in August 1960, two dogs, Belka and Strelka, an unnamed gray rabbit, 40 mice and 2 rats, were launched in Sputnik 5. Again in September 1962 a rabbit was aboard the Artemis that made 12 complete earth orbits. However, Artemis collided with space debris and sustained critical damage. Fortunately, the rabbit was recovered unharmed 933 miles off the east coast of Brazil.

NASA’s History of Animals in Space web page states, “after the manned lunar landing of Apollo 11, the role of animals was limited to the status of biological payload." Rabbits were included as a “biological payload” species. After finding this reference to rabbits, I was unable to locate any further information on rabbits utilized in space flights. There are a couple of websites touting the use of rabbits as a food source for human space colonies on Mars, but I don’t take those too seriously. I hope by the time we venture to Mars, humans will have stopped serving rabbit as a dinner entree on planet Earth.

Thankful A Little Lop Survived GI Stasis

2011-11-24T15:00:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving a sweet 7 1/2 year old lop is happily hopping around my home after a bout of GI Stasis earlier this month. I am so thankful. The symptoms started on a Friday before a long holiday weekend when most vets were closed for three days. My first rabbit, Groucho, died from GI Stasis many years ago. Since then I have learned everything I can about it from veterinary journals to many good sources on the web. It is scary every time I have seen rescue rabbits with symptoms.

Now my own lop bunny (pictured right) had stopped eating, was not producing any fecal pellets, lethargic, hunched up in pain, his stomach gurgling loudly, and an abdomen somewhat hard instead of soft and doughy. This had come on quickly. He was in real trouble. I got out my bunny first aid kit and drawing on what I had learned over the years his symptoms diminished. He slowly got better over the three day weekend and made good progress over a week. It took another week for his fecal pellets to become normal. I racked my brain for a cause. At the onset of symptoms I did not take the bunny to the vet. I did not have that option over the long holiday weekend. I recommend everyone get their rabbit to a vet immediately if possible.

I don’t know why this rabbit developed GI Stasis. I realized even though his diet is very good, he had lost a bonded partner three months before. Plus, I had moved his rabbit pen into a less drafty part of the room for the winter just a couple of weeks before. An attempt to introduce him to another rabbit wasn’t working out yet. All of these things are stressful for a rabbit. In the past 2 weeks he seems to be bonding more with me. He nudges me for pets much more often during the evenings when he has free run of the house and he sticks very close now. As far as I am concerned, he can have all the pets he wants and I'm grateful his litter box runneth over this Thanksgiving.

Don't wait to take your bunny to a vet - GI Stasis is a killer. Go to this Link for a list of vets. If a vet isn't available, try a veterinary emergency clinic. For good information on the web:

Gastrointestinal Stasis: The Silent Killer - by Dana Krempels, Ph.D. required reading for anyone with a rabbit as far as I am concerned.

GI stasis in rabbits - Excellent article in Hopping Mad Magazine online from the UK
Huh, Rabbits Can Get Gas?! Go to page 12 of this booklet by the Columbus House Rabbit Society

Dozens of White Rabbits Abandoned in Colorado

2011-11-21T08:22:00.000-08:00

Over 60 white rabbits were dumped by someone on a roadside in Colorado Springs, CO. (Pictured screen clip of rabbits on right). KKTV 11 News went out to the site to report and is offering information on caring for rabbits and how to adopt them their website. They also had a guest on air the next morning to discuss rabbit care if someone rescued one of the bunnies. The rabbits were rescued in the middle of the night by many good samaritans who came out to help. It was dark, cold and people showed up and helped gather up the rabbits on a rocky hillside.

KKTV 11 News reported they "contacted the local humane society to notify them about the situation, but they said they couldn't send someone out to get the rabbits until Monday." The TV station is investigating who dumped the beautifully classic white domesticated rabbits.

The State of Colorado: Animal Protection Act 8-9-202 Cruelty to Animals includes abandonment for this type of crime. It certainly is a crime. These rabbits would not have lasted the night. The area is known for its coyotes, bears, birds of prey and foxes. See several videos on the story at this Link. All of the kind people who went out to save those rabbits deserve a big thank you!

Hero Bunny Saves Girl's Life

2011-11-16T22:25:00.000-08:00

Tonight it was reported in the Central Coast News that a bunny alerted a girl's mother to a potentially life threatening medical emergency. Not once, but twice. The Hudgens family is fostering, Hammie, who is a 7 month old rabbit. Hammie started thumping at 2:00 am one morning and Aundrea Hudgens went to her daughter's room to see what all the commotion was about. The girl, Emily, has type one diabetes and her blood sugar had fallen dangerously low. According to the article, normally Emily wakes up when this occurs. The other interesting part of the story was that Hammie did not stop thumping until Hudgens was able to treat her daughter. Only then did the bunny calm down. Hammie also sensed it another time two weeks later and again alerted Emily's mother. Hammie definitely knows when Emily is in distress and this behavior has been seen in other companion animals including other rabbits. If I were the Hudgens, I'd adopt Hammie the Hero Bunny. See video and full story about Hammie at this Link

Rabbit Hopping Growing in Popularity in Europe

2011-10-31T08:53:00.000-07:00

A rabbit clears a hurdle during the first European Kanin Hop Championships in Switzerland on Sunday. Some 55 rabbits from different countries took part in the steeplechase. See a great photo collection and video at this Link (Photo credit: EPA)

Bunny Beauty Pagent Winner in UK

2011-10-31T08:44:00.000-07:00

A photogenic rabbit from Birmingham, UK was selected as Britain’s Cutest Bunny and will appear on the packaging for a rabbit feed. The winner, Binky, is a 4 month old lop. Britain’s Cutest Bunny attracted a bevy of bunnies - 812 entrants, with over 10,000 people interacting with a special Facebook application produced by Supreme, a rabbit food company. I have no doubt all 812 entrants were just as cute as Binky. My local feed store where I buy my bales of hay may not sponsor beauty pagents, but I'm sure a cute bunny contest would get just as much attention in the US. All rabbits deserve a winner's ribbon. Photo Credit: Supreme Petfoods (Hopperhome is reporting the story and has no affiliation with Supreme.)

Victoria Secret Model Visits Pumpkin Patch Bunnies

2011-10-26T20:09:00.000-07:00

Victoria Secret Model Alessandra Ambrosio and her daughter were featured in several photos in a Daily Mail online article enjoying the rabbits at a Santa Monica; pumpkin patch. Mom has a good grip on the bunny, but the other rabbit looked less than thrilled with 3 year old's cuddling. Certainly young children are drawn to hold soft, furry rabbits, but it isn't safe. Rabbits have sharp teeth, strong legs made to kick and most don't tolerate sudden movements or being picked up especially repeatedly. For the rabbit, it would only take being dropped once to fracture their fragile backbone. A family visit to a pumpkin patch with a bunny petting area might mean patching up the kid, a rabbit or both. (Photo credit: Flynetpictures.com)

By the way, there is a good article on Children & Rabbits at the House Rabbit Society website. For a yearly holiday visit with rabbits considering having an adult hold the rabbit securely so the child can gently pet it or simply get down on the ground at "rabbit level" to interact. Let your child know that poking, chasing or being too noisey scares rabbits.

30-Second Bunnies Theatre Scares Up Fun

2011-10-25T09:37:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Shiman, creator of the 30-Second Bunnies Theatre, wishes everyone a Happy Bun-O-Ween with a new short film. The bunnies' version of Mike Dougherty's excellent horror film, "Trick 'r Treat" is online at Fearnet. The bunnies' version joins a number of shorts celebrating the film. If you aren't familiar with the 30-Second Bunnies Theatre, take a look at the their link at the top of this post. About once a month Jennifer's troupe of bunnies parodies a movie by re-enacting it in 30 seconds (more or less). There are several bunny 30 second reenactments featuring scary movies. You could have a Halloween Film Bunfest!

Matisse Drew Rabbits into Fine Art

2011-10-25T08:56:00.000-07:00

Most of us associate fine art and rabbits with the wonderful, realistic painting, "A Young Hare," by Albrecht Durer, However, it seems Henry Matisse also appreciated rabbits as illustrated by an original lithograph published in 1950 as part of a limited edition book of poetry called, "Poèmes de Charles d'Orléans." The poetry of the 15th century writer must have inspired Matisse. He illustrated the book with carefree, light drawings using children's crayons. The drawing featuring bunnies is called, "A Family of Rabbits." As one art curator said, "it shows how the artist could produce such a playful, delightful image that so clearly shows his love of the natural world." You can see the Matisse lithographs at the Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool England now until April 15, 2012. Even though I won't make to the UK to see the drawing in person, I can see Matisse enjoyed the fanciful grace of rabbits. I'm pretty sure that's a "binky" hop on the right side of the drawing.

UK Study Shows Obesity Epidemic in Rabbits

2011-10-21T08:11:00.000-07:00

The results of a national pet health report in the UK conducted by a large veterinary charity, PDSA, show pets in the United Kingdom are in the middle of an obesity epidemic. When compared to cats and dogs, rabbits have the least amount of junk foods (26%) in their diets. However, this equates to over 430,000 bunnies consuming a diet "that includes toast, biscuits, cake, cheese and crisps." Yikes! This is a long way from a healthy diet of primarily timothy hay, vegetable greens and a small amount of pellets. These thousands of rabbits are at risk of developing obesity related and certainly life-threatening disease if their diets don’t improve. The data from the report came from 11,000 pet owners in the United Kingdom.

Rabbits are prone to digestive issues and many of the treats meant for humans can cause a blockage resulting in GI Stasis. That is just the short-term issue. In the long run obesity can cause sore hocks, arthritis, overdeveloped dewlaps in females, soft stools, etc. And, the list could go on. Overweight rabbits are also unable to properly clean themselves or reach to consume their cecotrophs. Plus, it is a quality of life issue for bunnies too tired to have normal activity levels. This type of study has never been done in the USA as far as I know for rabbits. Based on the number of emails I have recieved over the years asking if Cheerios, pasta or potato chips are safe treats, I wonder how the USA would compare if the same study were conducted here.

7 Tips to Keep Halloween less Scary for Your Rabbit

2011-10-20T00:09:00.000-07:00

Have a Hoppy Halloween this year! Please remember rabbits are sensitive creatures and may find this holiday a little creepy. Here are some tips to keep everyone safe:

1. Noise Rabbits can get spooked by strange noises anytime of the year. Just look at those ears. They can hear what is going on outside the house. Halloween night the door bell may ring more than usual and visiting goblins may have lots of sound effects. Keep your rabbit away from the front door and in a quiet area.

2. Costumes (for people) Did you know your rabbit sees your shape first and recognizes your familiar scent and voice. So if you are wearing anything that changes your basic shape, or scent and you put on an accent from Dracula's hometown, your rabbit may not even recognize you. Speak to your rabbit normally and don your costume after you have settled the rabbit in for the night.

3. Candy It's not great for humans and sugary treats especially chocolate should be kept away from rabbits during and after Halloween night. Give your bunny a bit of apple for a Halloween treat

4. Decorations Don't let your rabbit near stringy fake cobwebs and other filmy decorations . They maybe tempted to chew on them and they can cause serious digestive problems.

5. Candles Burning candles in jack-o-lanterns can be dangerous especially if a rabbit is hopping around in the house. Rabbits are as curious as cats and may investigate. They can knock them over creating a fire hazard.

6. Going to a Party If you go out for Halloween night, make sure your rabbit is safe and secure especially if it isn't an indoor house rabbit. If you aren't home to give out treats at the front door, someone might decide to "trick" you. A rabbit could be spooked by strangers or a target for a "trick." if kept outside.

7. Pet Costumes Not recommended, but I am guilty of placing a hat over those long ears. However, they were not attached to the rabbit. If you want to dress up your rabbit, don't use rubber bands, ties or elastic that can constrict breathing or movement. Some rabbits will try to remove the costume and can become entangled. Bunnies can also become stressed or too warm especially if the costume is tight. After all, they are already wearing a fur coat. Take a picture and then get the bunny out of costume.

Good Things Come in Threes

2011-10-19T21:28:00.000-07:00

The rabbits pictured on the left are going to be adopted after being abandoned to fend for themselves. Three beautiful Holland lops were found in the bushes at marina in Point Roberts (a small community in the far northwest corner of Washington State). According to the All Point Bulletin newspaper, there were attempts to capture them. Fortunately, they were being fed until the marina staff caught the first bunny. Then a family (son in photo) captured bunny number two, and the third was rounded up by another kind resident of Point Roberts. The rabbits have been in foster care since then. There is a hoppy ending since their fosterer has agreed to adopt all three to keep the trio together. (Photo credit: All Point Bulletin)

Fluffy Bunny Tea Party Card Game

2011-10-19T09:04:00.000-07:00

In searching for rabbit related items on the web, I found this game on Kickstarter - a site for funding all kinds of creative projects (not fundraising). What a great idea. But what I liked most were the sweet illustrations recalling the Beatrice Potter Peter Rabbit series (pictured on left). The video promoting the game includes a photo of a real grumpy bunny. Nice touch. The creator must have found his inspiration somewhere with a real rabbit. Even though Kickstarter isn't for fundraising, the ideas are inspirational for someone who might want to pursue a creative project through another avenue. This Fluffy Bunny Tea Party Card Game received almost $1,000 more than the $4,400 goal for the project. Somebody out there is interested in rabbits or card games or maybe both.

The True Cost of a Rabbit as a Companion (PS: They are worth every cent.)

2011-10-17T19:55:00.000-07:00

In September Kiplinger Personal Finance published a slide show on the "The Cost of Owning 5 Popular Small Household Pets." The first pet featured was a "miniature lop" rabbit more commonly known as a "mini-lop," Their totals came out to: First-year cost: $1,040 Annual cost: $660 Total lifetime cost (avg. lifespan: 10-12 years): $6,980 - $8,300

Neuter/Spaying: Their neuter/spay estimate was around $160. I have seen this cost climb for both neuter and spays the last couple of years since laser surgery is becoming more popular and it is more expensive. I was glad to see they recommended getting rabbits in for an annual check-up, which they estimated at $70. If the rabbit lives to be 10 years old, an "exotic" pet vet can get a little pricey for specialized care in those senior years.

Cage/Litter Box: They estimated a cage and litter box at $125. An X-pen (also known as a "puppy pen") runs around $70 and there are countless other options and some very nice bunny habitats available for a little more than a standard wire cage.
Toys: I thought the toys estimate of $40 was high since the cardboard core of a paper towel roll is sometimes more fun than anything else.
Grooming: Grooming tools at $20 seemed a little low since my sissors ran that much alone since they are stainless and curved for safety.
Feed: They also noted diet is an important component in keeping medical costs down. They further estimated the average annual cost for rabbit food of $190. It seems a little low without vegetables from a garden. However, I disagreed that "high-fiber pellets are critical grinding teeth down." Hay does the job right. Fiber pelleted food literally disintegrates in a rabbit's mouth with one or two crunches.
Litter & Bedding: I thought the annual expense for "litter and bedding" was high at $400. I have never, ever purchased nor used "bedding" for my rabbits. A nice bale of timothy hay from a feed store every couple of months at $20 works just fine for bedding, litter and, of course, 80% of a rabbit's diet.

Overall, I thought the rabbit expense estimates were close to actual costs and even a little low. Rabbits are neither low mainenance nor inexpensive companions. Yet there was something missing. The article didn't have the space to calculate the value of watching rabbits joyfully hop around the house, seeing their sweet faces lowered for a pet, or the privilege of knowing a small prey animal can learn to trust you and even your cat. Priceless.
Read original article

Parody of Kid's Cereals, Right for Rabbits, Too!

2011-10-16T23:26:00.000-07:00

Artist Ron English created a series of parody cereal boxes that were covertly placed on shelves at a Ralph’s grocery store in Venice, CA. One of them is a well known cereal with a rabbit character. The one pictured on the far left might be targeted at kids, but those of us feeding our rabbits should beware, too. It says "Obese Bunny Trix the Kids" and "Healthy Rabbits Don't Eat Trix." The latter is absolutely true because healthy rabbits should never be fed cereals intended for humans. Cereals aren't healthy for rabbits and it doesn't matter what brand or type. Most are high in sugar which upsets the balance of good bacteria in a rabbit's cecum and serious digestive problems will ensue aside from the weight gain. A small bit of carrot or apple is a much better treat.

"Hare"larious Rabbit Fashion

2011-10-11T09:22:00.000-07:00

Okay, here's something for rabbit fanatics who want to take it too far - a unisex "rabbit onsie" for adults. Yep, that's right - complete with a tail. These are not your bulky Easter Rabbit suits - they look comfortable. The onsies are available on Blamo Toys in other colors including Energizer Bunny pink. Plus, they offer a rabbit hoodie, too. Both run around $150 so I won't be hopping around in one of these outfits soon. However, Halloween is just around the corner and it is more impressive than my clip on rabbit ears. They look more practical for lounging around on grey days with the real rabbits. On second thought, it might scare the rabbits. (Hopperhome is in no way affiliated with Blamo Toys.) Photo credit: Blamo website

Sega Promotes Game Revival with Mystery Rabbit

2011-10-10T21:33:00.000-07:00

White rabbit looks sweet for 56 seconds while Sega promotes a sweepstakes to Name that Game since they plan to revive one of their classic games. I'm not a gamer, but I am a rabbit fanatic. All I took away from this was that the little bunny was adorable. Keep the sound off and enjoy the rabbit, or better yet go see the video by AlabamaEars: A Bunny's Guide to Exercise

New York City Rabbit Care Conference

2011-10-10T21:13:00.000-07:00

If you live in New York City (or close) - attend the Rabbit Care Conference on Sunday, October 23rd, with a presentation given by Dr. Susan Brown and Mary Cotter on the Behavior Connection. More Info at this Link

No Close Call for Bunny When Fatal Attraction Stars Reunite

2011-10-10T09:50:00.000-07:00

)Michael Douglas and Glenn Close reunited recently to reminisce about the 1987 movie, Fatal Attraction, and pose with a very safe bunny. I never watched the horrifying rabbit scene in the movie and I often wondered how Glenn Close, a well known animal lover could film it. The article states she "confessed the movie's most memorable moment made her think long and hard about whether she should star in the film. She explained in the Entertainment Weekly reunions special: 'The bunny was the one thing I had a question about. 'I took the script to a psychiatrist and said, 'is this behaviour possible? Could somebody do something like that?' The answer was yes." Yikes! - but 24 years later I like this image much better than the movie. (Photo credit: Entertainment Weekly)

On the Wild Side: Pygmy Rabbits vs Cattle

2011-10-06T00:12:00.000-07:00

According to the Spokesman-Review newspaper in Washington State, a rabbit is embroiled in a "range war" of sorts. Pygmy Rabbits, (pictured on the right) are at the center of a lawsuit filed by an environmental group over the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's decision that these tiny native rabbits do not warrant protection under the Endangered Species Act. "The Western Watersheds Project, based in Hailey, Idaho, said the rabbits were first identified as possibly in need of protection in 2003, and their numbers have diminished since. They contend the rabbits are suffering from loss of habitat caused in large part by livestock grazing."

It's easy to see why they need protection. The rabbits weigh in at about one pound. Every predator in their natural habitat will take them as a snack. Their lifespan is short (3 years) like any wild rabbit subject to predation. The rabbit's own food source (99% sagebrush) is being replaced with an "agriculture lawn" of grass forage for those large, docile, non-native ruminants - cattle. Pgymy Rabbits are not prolific breeders like most rabbits and offspring mortality is as high as 50% up to 5 weeks old. Their populations do not recover well from habitat destruction. Finally, it is well established that a loss of any species always has ecological ramifications. I think it is tragic the Pgymy rabbit could disappear forever because their home range is being trampled by some mild mannered bovines who will only end up as steakhouse dinners themselves. (Photo credit: AP)

Singapore Philatelic Museum Celebrates Rabbits

2011-10-05T20:29:00.000-07:00

Through the end of this year, 2011, the Singapore Philatelic Museum is hosting an interactive exhibit called "Bunny Wonderland" for children to celebrate the year of the rabbit not only in the colorful the world of postage stamps, but also to meet some famous bunnies who are favorites from around the world. Kids will be able to discover interesting facts about the nature of rabbits, their behavior and anatomy. (By the way, Singapore is fortunate to have a very active House Rabbit Society Chapter, too.)
It would be a long trip to Singapore from the USA to see the museum. Besides, I am more of a collector of bunnies needing rescue. Yet I did find time to collect a few Year of the Rabbit stamps to display on Hopperhome (more at this Link).

Feral Rabbit Control at Long Beach City College Hops to it!

2011-10-03T08:14:00.000-07:00

According to the LA Times, two years ago Long Beach City College had a population of 300 abandoned pet rabbits. They faced attacks by territorial rabbits and became prey for a variety of predators. But an instructor, Donna Prindle, chose to help and leads the humane effort with a Rabbit Population Control Task Force, formed in 2009. The rabbits are not exterminated, but instead are rounded up, neutered/spayed and made available for adoption. An impressive 236 rabbits have found new homes. "I walked by them for 30 years and I was ignorant of what was going on," Prindle said. "I couldn't sit by and not do anything." The plan is working with only six new bunnies found since August.

The success of the program is also attributed to continual education efforts. Strategically placed signs warn would be rabbit dumpers that "no bunny wants to be a college drop-off." Plus, it is accompanied by a warning that abandoning a rabbit carries a $500 fine or six months in jail. So far, no one has been caught according to officials. Sometimes it only takes one person like Donna who is willing to take action and motiviate others to join in to help animals. (Donna Prindle pictured above with an abandoned bunny - Photo Credit: Luis Sinco, LA Times)

Motorcycle Riding Lagomorph Sculpture

2011-09-26T09:28:00.000-07:00

This past summer the University of Maine hosted an exhibition called "Critters." The exhibit included a standout entry of a motorcycle riding rabbit called, "Duster" by sculpture Andy Rosen:

A Silver Lining: Bunny Breaks Leg, Becomes Shop’s Mascot

2011-09-26T08:39:00.000-07:00

In Gatlinburg, TN a small Dutch Rabbit enjoys three days of attention, not at home, but at Arrowcraft, the Shops of the Southern Highland Art Guild. Silver, a 5 1/2-year-old house bunny belongs to Laurel Kiewitt, a full-time employee at the store who has three free roaming house rabbits and a cat. About a year ago, Kiewitt came home to find that Silver had somehow injured himself, breaking his back left leg. After a trip to the vet Silver wore a cast for a few weeks, but it didn't heal correctly and the next option was amputation at the knee. Both Laurel and her co-workers were awaiting the outcome of the surgery. Laurel had brought Silver with her to work every day to make sure that he didn’t injure himself further, chew his sutures and to administer the medication he was prescribed. Silver made it through surgery just fine and still enjoys all the attention at the store. At Arrowcraft, Silver is “king of the throne here, and he knows it,” said one of the bunny’s best fans. “A day without Silver is a day without sunshine.” Article (Photo: Mountain Press)

Rabbit Fur Poster Illustrates Cruelty

2011-09-23T11:38:00.000-07:00

Emma Napier in the UK designed this poster as her Postive Poster 2011 entry. Here's what she said about it:
"At first glance, you may think this poster is advertising a designer coat but if you look closer, it is made out of hand illustrated bunny rabbits. The underlying approach was to have the audience look deeper and realise that the coat is made up of bunnies, the same way a fur coat is. The style is rather elegant until you realise it is quite horrific and graphic just like the hidden methods which are used to make a fur coat."

Flood Float Trip Ends Well for Three Rabbits

2011-09-23T11:03:00.000-07:00

"We got three rabbits that were floating down the river," according to Marge Bart of Blue Chip Farms Animal Refuge. These were the bunnies who were almost victims of the devastating floods in northeastern Pennsylvania recently. The no-kill animal refuge in Dallas, PA was started by Marge Bart who started rescuing animals more than 10 years ago at her home. See the video that shows the rescued animals including those flood rafting rabbits at this Link. (Pictured: one of the former floating rabbits)

Rabbits Left Behind when Woman Moved

2011-09-23T10:46:00.000-07:00

According to newspapers in Scotland, a young mother recently "abandoned two pet rabbits in filthy conditions without food and water when she moved." Fortunately, someone informed the

Scottish SPCA who found two "thin rabbits in a cage unprotected from the weather." This is a problem everywhere especially now that people are experiencing foreclosures and tough times in a long recession. Animals of all kinds are left abandoned locked in homes, or cages and even dogs are being found tied up in a backyard without any protection from the elements after their families move away.

The young woman who ended up in court in Scotland was described as "still young with an 18-month-old daughter with brain damage and, also a five-week-old son." The rabbits had been bought by a former partner and he was gone. In this case, the judge imposed a disqualification order so the woman does not own or keep animals for five years as punishment. To me, punishment is an "after the fact" deterent, but certainly appropriate. The bigger issue is making it ethically (if not morally) unacceptable in all societies/cultures for people to turn their backs on the responsibility to behave humanely toward animals in their care. It's going to continue to take education, teaching by example, effective ordinances/punishments and providing lot more resources. Not an easy task. Plus, it is disheartening to read the frequent stories of animal abandonment. Yet, looking at that rabbit's face (above) make it all the more reason to persevere.

Hero Rabbit Saves Woman & Daughter from House Fire

2011-09-19T09:27:00.000-07:00

In Ketchikan, Alaska Fire officials say a pet rabbit woke its owner because the house was on fire. It allowed the woman and her daughter to get safely out of the burning home. Tragically the rabbit did not survive and died from smoke inhalation. The bunny had woken the woman up by scratching her chest and the woman saw the house was full of smoke. She rushed to get her daughter out, but the rabbit was left behind in the confusion. Fire officials say pets often find their own way out of a burning building but not this time.

Bunnies are Winners!

2011-09-16T08:28:00.000-07:00

A bunny hopped its way into the hearts of readers as part of a Swindon Advertiser Newspaper contest and won the crown of Swindon’s Best Pet 2011. (Swindon is about 80 miles east of London). A 10-month-old mini-lop, Maria, was chosen over a chicken, a donkey, two cats, several dogs and a hamster. Her owners, Tracy Allen and James Best, bought her as their first pet after they moved in together a year ago and said they are delighted that she has won.

They have had Maria since she was just 12 weeks old. They decided to enter the competition after seeing it publicized in the paper but were not expecting to win . . .We thought it would be just a bit of fun to enter, I never thought we would end up winning it,” said James. “She is very cute, so I think that has probably got something to do with her winning." Just take a look above. By the way, these pet contests in the US, UK or anywhere in the world sometimes introduce a newspaper's readership to rabbits as companion animals for the first time. They are surprised to see the rabbits, but intriqued perhaps enough to look into adopting a bunny. Everyone ends up a winner including the rabbits.

Beyond the Binky - New Calendar of Bunnies Dancing

2011-09-15T09:20:00.000-07:00

The Mail Online in the UK posted a photo essay from a new calendar called "Strictly Bunny" showing two rabbits in some highly "photoshopped" dance moves. I think my own rabbits' moves are athletic and stylish enough. However, somebody couldn't resist a little computer wizardry and Dancing with the Stars kind of backdrops to show a highly anthropomorphized series of rabbits motion. It's not exactly a real bunny hop.

See it for yourself at this Link. (Photo from Daily Mail)

Photographing a Wild Rabbit

2011-09-13T13:48:00.000-07:00

David Woo at Dallas News he was photographing a garden for a story when he was lucky enough to catch this wild rabbit for 3 or 4 photos - Nicely Done! I have captured a few photos of cottontails myself. The trick is to be very quiet, make sure the camera isn't beeping or whirring away and if all else fails - a long telephoto lens - then be quiet anyway. See rest of photos at this Link. (Photo credit: David Woo, Photographer)

Pet Bunnies Make the Grade at Stetson University

2011-09-13T08:34:00.000-07:00

At Stetson University in Deland rabbits and other pets are bringing a bit of joy and calm to students. According to

Megan Young, one of the coordinators of Housing and Residential Life who oversees residence halls, the university does not rule out the possibility of adding more pet-friendly rooms in the future if the waiting list continues to grow.
"It's really been a great situation," Young said about the high interest by students and success of the pet-friendly hall.
The program helps with retention in allowing students "to feel this is their home as well," Young said.
Interacting with other students with pets also helps students feel like they belong more to a community, she said, and "it helps them mature by taking care of someone other than themselves."
Pictured: Julie Stevens gives her pet rabbit Serafina treats at the pet-friendly Nemec Hall at Steston University in DeLand on Tuesday. (Photo credit: N-J | Peter Bauer)

Leona Lewis Features Bunny in Video

2011-09-06T08:25:00.000-07:00

Back in 2009 singer-songwriter Leona Lewis paid $100 to save a rabbit from ending up as a man's dinner and took it home as her new pet. According to media reports, the vegetarian X Factor winner was in Los Angeles when she saw the rabbit on a lead with a homeless man. When she asked what he was going to do with the rabbit he told her, "Don't know — probably eat it." (This type of street con using animals needs to be stopped.) The man asked her for $20 and she gave him a hundred dollars. She told him to buy food with the rest even though according to news reports she thought his claim about making the bunny "dinner" might be a deception. She took the bunny home and named it Melrose after the street where she found it. Recently she made a video called "Making My Album - Part 1" which features a snuggle with the rabbit about 30 seconds into the video. I admit I wasn't familiar with her music, but I'm a Leona Lewis fan now.

Red Rabbit in Sacramento

2011-09-02T09:12:00.000-07:00

A giant red rabbit is hopping into the Sacramento International Airport's new Terminal B, due to open Oct. 6th. The display of public art in the form of an attention-getting giant red bunny located near baggage claim will be a whopping 56 feet long and 19 feet tall. The rabbit will appear to be leaping into its own suitcase, complete with a "swirling vortex," suggestive of a rabbit hole. What would really impress me is a big sign near the red rabbit promoting rabbit adoption. There are hundreds of rabbits at rescues nearby waiting for new homes. Visit the Sacramento House Rabbit Society, Friends of Unwanted Rabbits, City of Sacramento Animal Services and the Sacramento SPCA A real red rabbit, Rhett Bunnier (shown above), is a young male Palomino rabbit available for adoption from the Sacramento House Rabbit Society. Photo below: Finishing touches being put on the red rabbit sculpted by Lawrence Argent)

Largest Toy Bunny Ever on Display in Sweden

2011-08-30T23:04:00.000-07:00

Dutch artist Florentijn Hoffman has designed a humungous hare with his newest dramatically scaled cuddly toy bunny. A plaza in Swedish seems to be hosting The Velveteen Rabbit turned on his head. I like this bright yellow creation even if it wouldn't fit in my house. The artist has created other big bunnies for display including a Lookout Rabbit (see below) installed in the Netherlands. For more views of his yellow rabbit see this Link.

"The Lookout Rabbit." This one has interior stairs with a great view. See more angles on this rabbit at this Link.

Fire Crews Jump in to Save Family Pets

2011-08-29T14:26:00.000-07:00

In Hollywood, FL a family and their two pet rabbits and dog are very lucky to have escaped a fire that caused extensive damage to a home. With all the people accounted for, fire crews rescued the two rabbits and dog from the home and administered oxygen to them. The bunny seems to be relieved to be carried out of harms way. See video Also, there are plenty of sources for pet oxygen masks on the internet and it great that so many fire departments consider them an important piece of rescue equipment.

Hopping to It in Germany

2011-08-29T08:40:00.000-07:00

The National Post in Canada featured a beautiful photo of a rabbit doing what they do naturally - jumping over a hurdle at an obstacle course the 5th Open Rabbit Sport Tournament yesterday in Germany. My bunnies primarily jump over my cats just to fluster them or enjoy high jumps into chairs and sofas. But these tournaments are serious competition. Eighty rabbits competed in light-weight, middle-weight and jumping-for-points categories. Rabbit Hopping is a growing trend among pet rabbit owners in Central Europe and the first European Championships are scheduled to be held later this year in Switzerland. (Photo: National Post)

Rabbit or a "Pet Hound"

2011-08-25T08:01:00.000-07:00

This video of Wilson, a young Lavender Point Californian bunny posted yesterday by Oakland Animal Services shows the truly affectionate, sweet nature of rabbits. I am not sure if this is a rabbit or a "pet hound." Many of the rabbits my sister and I have rescued are unsocialized rabbits no one wants. But give them a little time and they all turned out like Wilson - ready to nudge a hand for a pet. Wilson is available for adoption - see OAS link above for more information.

Hoppy Birthday Bugs Bunny

2011-08-23T08:14:00.000-07:00

In honor of the always irreverent Bugs Bunny who made his debut in the animated cartoon, Wild Hare, today in 1940, here are some of his classic quotes:

Don't take life too seriously. You'll never get out alive.

Carrots are devine... You get a dozen for a dime, It's maaaa-gic!

Don't think it hasn't been a little slice of heaven...'cause it hasn't!

Well, what did you expect in an opera? A happy ending?

Gee, ain't I a stinker?

Here I go with the timid little woodland creature bit again. It's shameful, but...ehhh, it's a living.

I bet you say that to all the wabbits.

I know this defies the law of gravity, but I never studied law!

Eh, what's up, doc?

Jumpin' without a parachute? Kinda dangerous, ain't it?

Well, it's 5 o'clock somewhere.

And we all thought that last one was Jimmy Buffet!

Homeless Rabbits Make Surburban Yards Home

2011-08-22T09:54:00.000-07:00

The SGVTribune.com reported feral rabbits in San Gabriel Valley, CA are making their home in yards and streets of a suburban neighborhood. The rabbits are former pets that have been cruelly abandoned. The local independent rabbit rescue is at capacity like many others right now. According to the article they are contacting larger rescue groups for help. For rabbit rescuers short of space and resources this is a sad and frustrating situation. Concerned neighbors hesitate to contact "animal control because the county animal shelter will euthanize the furry creatures within three days." The population of rabbits is already facing some deadly obstacles like cars, coyotes and possibly being attacked "by neighbors who are tired of them eating their flowers." However, as many other communities have found out, a breeding pair can multiple into hundreds of bunnies within a year. The population explosion can happen fast and then what? See full article with slide show at this Link. (Photo: two homeless bunnies munching a free lunch from a kind neighbor. SGVN/Staff photo by Watchara Phomicinda.)

Rabbit Abandoned Complete with Hutch

2011-08-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

A rabbit was abandoned complete with hutch (in Havant, UK) outside a country park’s gates.Yvonne Philbrow, the cleaner at the park, was shocked as she arrived for work and saw the hutch.

She, said: ‘I pulled it open and there was a rabbit inside. I was appalled. I don’t know how long it had been there – anything could have happened.’ She named the rabbit Billy and adopted him. Yvonne is pictured here with her grandchildren and Billy, the adorable lop bunny.

The local newspapers in the UK seem to publish a good share of articles like this and I don't think it's just because it's a slow news day. People who show kindness toward animals deserve the press. On the one hand I am sad to read about the inhumane treatment of animals, but glad for the stories about people who show compassion for them. (Photo credit: Allan Hutchings)

A Hutch is Not Enough

2011-08-19T08:35:00.000-07:00

The Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWAF) in the UK published an interesting article with photos of a large rabbit run for outdoor use. Rabbits have been traditionally kept in hutches in the UK, however, the trend is toward "house" rabbits. Bringing rabbits indoors to be part of the family like a cat or dog is catching on there like it has in the US. I have never been a proponent of outdoor hutches. Nonetheless, I think a run in the garden is fine for rabbits in good weather with some supervision. Where I live there are just too many predators to ensure the safety of my rabbits outdoors. Bears, an occasional mountain lion, raccoons, feral dogs/cats, weasels, eagles, coyotes, etc. are all looking for a free lunch. The RWAF also created a great video from a rabbit's point of view about hutches. See the article here with more photos.

Rabbit Room Service

2011-08-18T08:18:00.000-07:00

Patricia O'Donnell, who runs a guesthouse in Edinburgh, UK "almost had a heart attack" when she discovered the uninvited visitor over the weekend. She had entered the room of a family of Chinese tourists to water the flower boxes when she spotted a bunny - complete with hay, bedding and food - relaxing in the shower unit. (See photo of traveling rabbit - very pretty) Ms. O'Donnell called the SSPCA Officers, but when the bunny's family returned they produced a small cage. The

officer told them to take the rabbit to Gorgie City Farm, but they didn't seem interested in that. They checked out.
I have traveled all over the country with 2 to 7 rabbits. I take a small hand vacuum in my suitcase and pack an expandable puppy pen. I don't recommend it, but I admit when I can't find a pet friendly hotel, both my sister and I will sneak rabbits through a hotel lobby. The rabbits are clean and quiet. Plus, no one has ever questioned the room service orders for salads with dressing on the side. (Photo credit: The Telegraph)

Baby Rabbit Stolen from Rescue Center in UK

2011-08-16T08:03:00.000-07:00

The journey rabbits must sometimes endure to find safety in a forever home can be full of peril. Last week a baby rabbit was turned over to the RSPCA after being thrown from a car window in the UK. Now one of those babies has been stolen from the animal sanctuary. There were other stories in local newspapers about stolen rabbits this past week. Most of them were rabbits stolen from unattended cages at state and county fairs and this is the first one I have read about taken from a rescue organization recently.
The bunny at the RSPCA was rescued by a kind couple who spotted an adult rabbit and five young bunnies being tossed from a car. Fortunately, the couple managed to capture all the rabbits and took them to the rescue center. Now one has gone missing after two days and he was not old enough to be separated from his mother. The Centre's staff are now worried for the animal’s welfare and are appealing for anyone with any information to contact them. Find contact info here if you live the UK. Of course, there was absolutely no reason to "steal" this rabbit since I am sure the RSPCA would have worked out an adoption when the rabbit was old enough. I hope the little rabbit (pictured) finds its journey ends well in a good home.

Wow 200 Artistic Rabbits in Hong Kong

2011-08-15T07:56:00.000-07:00

Check out the page for the "WeWow Rabbit Charity Scheme" - it was organised by the Hong Kong Society for Education in Art (HKSEA). Special needs students from various schools work with HKSEA to design their own plastic rabbits. Using different colours, shapes, and patterns, the students let loose their imagination to create a colony of 30cm-tall rabbits. The Project Officer, said “We used the theme of rabbits because they are smart, energetic and active. We believe participating students have the same qualities, provided that they are given adequate opportunities to express themselves. The students were given plain white rabbits to start off with, resembling a fresh sheet of paper that is free of any creative barriers.” Great fun! They are colorful, bright and I wish I could take the long trip to see them all.

Rabbit Habit - Bunny Makes Home in Convent

2011-08-02T08:23:00.000-07:00

WCAX.com reported on a new resident at Our Lady of Providence Convent in Winooski, Vermont. They say that although "life in a convent can be somewhat regimented, a new resident has given some sisters in the convent hours of amusement." The bunny was discovered in the backyard of the convent this spring and they knew it wasn't a wild rabbit so they decided to catch it and bring it in. At first they nicknamed the rabbit, Roger Rabbit, and after a vet exam discovered, he, was a she.
The sisters have renamed her Princess because she loves to sit in the chairs, like a throne. She also likes music. The bunny is litter box trained and lives in one of the common rooms where the sisters can visit any time they want. So it is hard to tell who is getting more out of this arrangement. However, there is no doubt it was devine intervention for Princess, the rabbit. (Photo Credit: Lorraine Bushek, Painting Rabbits on Chairs Series)

Cute, Fluffy Missouri Flood Survivors Ready for New Homes

2011-07-29T08:37:00.000-07:00

When acres and acres of farmland in southeastern Missouri was flooded in May, 26 rabbits almost became victims, but they were saved from a levee that was about to break. The Riverfront Times article interviewed volunteers from the House Rabbit Society for the article about the rabbits (and many other animals) saved from the devastation. The bunnies are now ready (spayed and neutered, too) and up for adoption. They are at the Humane Society of Missouri, 1201 E. Macklind, this Sunday. Contact the House Rabbit Society of Missouri, St. Louis Chapter for more info and see a video of some of the bunnies at this Link. Photo Credit: Adorable survivors Pringle, Pretzel and Poptart: Ready for Good Homes.)

Heat Has Wildlife Rehabilitators Hopping in Georgia

2011-07-28T07:54:00.000-07:00

Many of the rabbits brought to Critters of the Woods are severely malnourished and the hot weather isn't helping. Animals brought to rehabilitators may have mothers who are severely dehydrated and unable to produce milk. The good news is they are doing well with care in rehabilitation. Article has a video and lots of photos of baby cottontails you can see at this Link! Photo: Critters of the Woods - Rhonda Woods

Gosling Imprints on Rabbits

2011-07-27T17:30:00.000-07:00

Several media outlets picked up the story from British Columbia about Andre, a Canadian Goose who needed to taught he was a goose. His interspecies confusion began when he was rescued as a young gosling and spent his time in the company of some domesticated rabbits. He had been taken to the World Parrot Refuge where they realized he would not be accepted by colorful residents. He went to live at a rabbit sanctuary where he ate and slept with rabbits. Although, he did have some pool time and then plenty of rehabilitation with other geese. "He's definitely goose-like now," according to the Wild ARC manager. There have been several stories about rabbits and other animals bonding this week. In this case, the rabbits already had plenty of bunny company, but allowed the goose to be part of their "herd." (Photo credit: Andre as a gosling - Susan Vickery)

Rescued Fawn and Rabbit Bond

2011-07-25T11:58:00.000-07:00

Real-life Bambi and Thumper story at Holbrook Animal Rescue facility - Great Video:

"One of our rescue rabbits seemed to know that something was wrong and immediately snuggled up to the deer. The rabbit started to wash and comfort the fawn, and the fawn responded. This is not the first time that this sort of thing has happened here. In fact, there have been a number of times where different species have bonded."

The Christmas Bunny Movie

2011-07-22T08:41:00.000-07:00

It might be July and a few months until Christmas, but Hopperhome is very pleased to have been asked to contribute to The Christmas Bunny movie website for information on rabbit care The House Rabbit Society contributed a lot of information for the movie and it all helps educate people on proper care of rabbits!

What's Fair About It?

2011-07-21T09:25:00.000-07:00

With sweltering triple digit temperatures sitting over a large portion of the United States and fair season just gearing up, rabbits (and other animals) are subject to temperatures that can kill them. I have been keeping up on fair events in several states during this record heat wave. Some fairs have cancelled rabbit related events, some have moved the rabbits into air conditioned buildings and too many are just hoping for the best.
Heat can kill. It's that simple. My vet has told me time and time again that rabbits out of all animals in the home or certainly outdoors are the most susceptible to heat stroke. After all, they are wearing a thick fur coat. Symptoms can include panting rapidly (open mouth breathing), weakness/lethargy; laying flat out with tail down and reluctance to move, lack of interest in food, drooling/wet around mouth, convulsions, coma and ultimately death. Temperatures of 85 degrees F and above can be dangerous. A lot of the country is well above this right now. Rabbits regulate their body temperature with those big ears full of large veins. (By the way, this is tougher for the lop breeds due to the down position of the ears next to the body.) Misting ears with water can help because it cools the blood that circulates throughout the body. A large cool ceramic tile on the cage floor (in shade) may help. A warm rabbit will lounge on it to keep his cool. A "cold buddy" consisting of a frozen water filled bottle (plastic) and covered with a wetted down cotton sock is cool comfort, too.
Fairs are already stressful for rabbits with all the new smells, sounds and strange rabbits in the cage next door. But most all all, if the facilities at the fair are not air conditioned and the temperatures are well over 85 degrees, maybe it's time to consider leaving the bunny at home. If the fair officials do not have enough common sense when it comes to heat stressed animals, then individuals need to make the right decisions about the safety of their animals. There is always next year.
One more thing - where are the resting boards for rabbits at fairs. Last year the local fair near me said that resting boards were "too messy" and the bunnies could "deal with the wire floors for two days" during their events. I hardly think this is fair. (Photo: Three very handsome brothers in a cooler year at a fair.)

More Reasons to Bring Bunnies Inside

2011-07-18T23:14:00.000-07:00

About three days ago I began receiving emails from people impacted by the record setting heat wave wondering how to help their heat sensitive rabbits housed outdoors. The first thing I suggest is to bring the bunnies indoors where the rest of the family is enjoying air conditioning and ceiling fans. I also offer more suggestions (if this isn’t possible) and explain the signs of heat stress. Overall, it was a bad week for rabbits housed outside. There was a news story about a woman in Rigby, Idaho who lost 9 rabbits to a mountain lion. From the video on the local news channel it shows the wire cages were stacked against the side of an outbuilding and not predator proof. One comment said, the “rabbits were nothing more than bait.” The the breeder had stacked the wire cages three high just a few inches off the ground. Then further south in San Diego a rabbit breeder was surprised when a big evergreen tree fell on her property and smashed cages trapping rabbits under the tree. Fortunately, those rabbits survived. I did hear back from a woman who wasn’t sure how to help her bunnies stay cool in the hot weather in Texas this week. She had kept rabbits in hutches since she was a child in her native England. She brought her rabbits inside for relief from the hot weather and set them up in an air-conditioned family room. The good news is they are now permanent house rabbits and she’s calling her home “Bunningham Palace.”

Rabbits & Cats Bond Despite the Smell of Danger

2011-07-15T12:11:00.000-07:00

Recent studies about the mechanics of instinctive predator avoidance by prey animals shows how remarkable it is that domesticated rabbits will bond with house cats. Rabbits like other small prey mammals use their powerful sense of smell to detect and evade predators, including species they have never met before. Within the last couple of months what happens at a molecular level in rabbit olfactory receptors to trigger predator aversion (particularly to urine) has been reported in scientific journals. Rabbits like rodents have a capacity for recognizing interspecies odors and their danger-associated behavioral response is hardwired.

Gardeners have known for years predator urine (like bobcats) will keep rabbits from noshing on their nasturtiums. It turns out cats have the highest concentrations of the chemical which repels prey animals and lions have the highest concentration of all animals. This summer gardeners in Syracuse, NY have noticed a marked decline in the number of rabbits grazing their flowers when they spread lion dung (provided by a nearby zoo) on the soil. The smaller domesticated version of big cats, i.e., the domesticated house cat, also produces the chemicals. (Another good reason to keep a cat litter box located well away from house rabbits aside from the fact rabbits should never ingest the clay litter.) Here at home the rabbits play with the cats, lounge with them in evenings and make every effort to get the cats to groom them by “flat heading” under their feline chins. This behavior hardly screams fear. Even the gardeners in Syracuse have noticed wild rabbits are getting over their aversion to lion odors without the actual lions stalking and pouncing on them. There haven’t been any “pouncing incidents” with my sister and my cats and rabbits despite their proximity. In fact, if the cats wanted to groom them, not one of the rabbits would turn up their nose. For more information on bonding rabbits and cats see Amy Shapiro’s article at this Link. (Photo: my cat Pele grooms Mr. Hops)

Whirlwind Recovery for Rabbit After Tornado

2011-07-14T11:23:00.000-07:00

On the Monson Tornado Watch 2011 Facebook Page, Jo Buswell Sauriol wrote: "Pretty Girl, the rabbit we have been fostering, who took a bumpy ride 500 feet thru the air during the tornado. Is back at home with her family. So glad we could help you out." This is a June tornado that tore down Monson's Main Street, destroying businesses, knocking down trees, leveling some structures, breaking windows, even ripping the steeple off the church. Pretty Girl is one lucky rabbit. Disasters affect both people and pets and this community is pulling together to help both. The good news is the bunny is doing well despite the trauma of taking a high flying ride courtesy of a tornado and home where she belongs.

A Rabbit & his Sword

2011-07-08T09:45:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow (July 9^th) the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles, CA is celebrating The Year of the Rabbit by hosting Stan Sakai creator of “Usagi Yojimbo” with a day of comics, anime, and stories for the whole family. Usagi Yojimbo (Literally meaning "Rabbit Bodyguard,") is a popular comic book series created by Sakai. Over 25 years ago, a rabbit in samurai costume sought shelter from a snowstorm announced, "I am called Miyamoto Usagi." It was the beginning of a comic book series with a blend of American and Japanese elements (Sakai grew up in Hawaii) winning the National Cartoonists' Society Award and the comic book industry's Will Eisner Award as well. According to interviews I found online with Sakai, his rabbit comic book character is based on a real samurai named Miyamoto Musashi. One day Sakai drew a rabbit with his ears tied in a “chonmage” or traditional samurai topknot and he loved the design so much he renamed him Miyamoto Usagi. (Usagi means rabbit in Japanese.) Stan Sakai may not have had rabbits as a child, but told an interviewer that “rabbits play an important part in Japanese folklore. In the West we have the man in the moon, but in Japan the legend is that there is a rabbit -- or rather, a hare -- in the moon. Rabbits are also a part of Japanese folktales and are usually the good guy. It was just natural for Usagi to be a white rabbit.” (Photo: Stan Sakai http://www.usagiyojimbo.com/)

Bunny Cart Business Hopping

2011-07-06T20:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I received an email from Laurie Miller of Dogs to Go thanking me for the link to their family owned cart business because they have made over 200 carts for rabbits.

She wrote, “I cannot tell you how many bunnies we have helped with wheels now because they saw our information on Hopperhome!” (Disabled Rabbits). She went on to say both she and her husband, Larry, (chief designer) never imagined building a cart for a rabbit, but after their very first rabbit, Ethel, their bunny cart business “went crazy.” So far they have made over 200 rabbit carts for bunnies all over the world especially in the UK. I think this is great since carts can provide rabbits who have hind leg paralysis with a better quality of life and most likely more time to enjoy their lives. What I like about Dogs to Go is that the owners started the business because of their Dachshund dog, Penny, who needed a cart after a ruptured disc. No doubt they are animal lovers. They have kept their prices quite reasonable and rabbits adapt well to the unique design. (By the way, Hopperhome does not accept advertising and any recommendations are bunny approved.)

Canmore's Feral Rabbit Issue Multiplied Over Past 4 Years

2011-07-06T09:04:00.000-07:00

Back in 2007 I was wrote a blog entry about the feral domesticated rabbit issue in Canmore (Canada):

March 2007 - Update on Canmore Rabbits - The question of what should be done with the Town of Canmore's feral rabbits was being asked of the community through a survey with a deadline of March 31st. According to the Rocky Mountain Outlook, media across North America seem far more interested in the problem than the town’s folk. The town representative said, “We’re not getting a bevy of surveys, we don’t even have a dozen.” There are a reported 1,000 rabbits in a town of 11,500 people. The rabbits are descendants of pet rabbits abandoned in the 1980’s.Since then, the rabbits have multiplied to approximately 2,000 over four and a half years later.

Now the Mayor of Canmore says: "This is a question of practicality. It is always very easy to come up with schemes and ideas for solving an issue for which you have no accountability. If the individuals who are speaking and writing are strongly in favour of spaying and neutering and sending to a facility rabbits from Canmore, they should step up to the responsibility of paying for this solution."

What? Over the last four years with no plan in place, the City of Canmore has effectively allowed the feral rabbit problem to grow. It is certainly going to be twice as expensive to "solve" the issue in 2011 than back in 2007 or earlier. The people with Save Canmore's Bunnies did not abandon the rabbits, or sell unaltered rabbits, or contribute to the multiplying problem and, in fact, they have spent countless hours trying to create a nonlethal solution. They do not have "accountability," but they have been working to save the rabbits anyway. It's ironic the City of Canmore didn't procrastinate at all when it came to diverting the responsibility for expenses to a few people with compassion for animals.

Homeless Man who Rescued His Rabbit Offered Job

2011-07-06T07:41:00.000-07:00

The courageous homeless man in Ireland, John Bryne, who hopped off a bridge to save his pet bunny, Barney, is a local hero for his compassion toward animals. Over 200 people watched as John saved his pet from a watery death. He told the newspaper he would do it again. The other good news out of this story is that John has been offered a full-time job caring for animals. He is grateful for the opportunity. According to the the Herald newspaper, "I got some cheers when I rescued Barney and loads of people have been coming up to meet me and my pets. These animals mean everything to me." (John, his rabbit, Barney and dog, Lilly with an admirer are pictured above - photo credit: Kyran O'Brien

The man who threw the rabbit off the bridge has been arrested for animal cruelty.

House Rabbits Revisited Video with Amy Sedaris

2011-07-05T10:37:00.000-07:00

Great informative video from House Rabbit Society starring beautiful rabbits and a special human who loves them - Amy Sedaris:

Rabbit, Rabbit - A British Tradition

2011-07-01T08:12:00.000-07:00

"Rabbit, rabbit, rabbit," - it's a British superstition. The idea is that upon waking on the first day a new month, you will receive good luck for the remainder of the month. They have to be the first words you utter in the morning. The tradition is also somewhat common in some parts of Massachusetts and Vermont. There are also plenty of variations on it, like saying "white rabbit" when you wake up and "black rabbit" before you go to bed. I feel lucky enough living with my rabbits and muttering "coffee" first thing in the morning so I'll probably skip it. However, I did take an opportunity first thing today to visit Rabbit Rehome online in the UK. I found this photo of six year old Honey who is available for adoption in Essex. According to her description, this sweet lop rabbit was left behind when her human split with her boyfriend and he did not know how to care for her. Honey is looking for a loving home with an older male rabbit. Let's hope Honey is lucky herself and finds her forever home soon.

21 Confiscated Rabbits May Give Oakland "Paws for Thought"

2011-06-30T11:22:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago the City of Oakland Planning Commission unanimously approved a proposal modifying zoning regulations to allow “crop growing” as a home occupation. This only includes plants. However, there are those who want to add animals to Oakland’s urban agriculture. The case of 21 rabbits officials removed (see photo of two above) from a home in Oakland Tuesday night that were set to be butchered for food should give officials “paws for thought." It was reported neighbors informed the SPCA about the rabbits caged at a Lake Merritt apartment complex. Wire cages were stacked and the rabbits were covered in their own urine and waste with urine scald sores plus the smell was overwhelming. Their diet consisted of white rice and they suffered from malnutrition. Their stomachs were bloated and their bones deformed. Megan Webb, the Director of Animals Services summed it up well, in the SF Chronicle stating, "This blurs the lines for animal cruelty. When is it okay to raise something for food, and when is it cruelty?" she said.

When the Oakland Planning Commission met I am sure they did not imagine potential abuses that could result from raising animals for food within their city limits. Unfortunately, the abuse of the 21 rabbits described above shows what could happen. In the coming months there will be modifications proposed and submitted to the community, Economic Development Committee and then the City Council in Oakland for consideration Several weeks ago a speaker at the meeting said, “We’re very concerned that animals will be part of urban agriculture,” because it could cause public health and animal welfare issues. She did not know her concerns would be validated so soon with 21 suffering rabbits. Photo credit: Lance Iversen / The Chronicle

UK Study Wants to Know What Makes Rabbits Happy

2011-06-28T08:38:00.000-07:00

In the UK, researcher Jenna Hill, wants to hear from as many rabbit owners as possible about all aspects of their rabbit’s lives. The research study by the University of Bristol's School of Veterinary Sciences hopes to find out how people care for the rabbits such as where the "rabbits live, how they behave, what they eat and how healthy they are, as well as how they interact with their owners.” With around one million rabbits in the UK, they are the third most popular pet, after dogs, and cats. I hope Veternarian Hill shares her research data with vets in the United States once her study is completed. The more we all know about rabbits will help improve their care. I encourage anyone in the UK with a rabbit to participate (see link above).

Rabbits "Going to Pot" in Germany

2011-06-26T19:18:00.000-07:00

Just when I think I have heard it all then I read police in Brandenburg, Germany located a large plot of cannabis and also found that an 84-year-old woman in the neighboring house had been feeding her rabbits the plants. According to the Local Online, she told the investigating officer she had not grown the plants herself, but that they had simply started growing there. A spokesman for the Brandenburg police said her explanation had sounded plausible, but the officers could not leave her with the plants. The plants were confiscated and taken to a forensics laboratory for testing to determine levels of THC (the psycho-active ingredient in cannabis) they contain. Someone needs to send this woman a nice fresh bale of timothy hay. There is much conflicting information on the web as to the toxicity of cannabis in rabbits and most of the information seems to indicate the leaves are toxic to bunnies. I am certain rabbits are much healthier and much better suited to grazing on grass - the low green narrow-leaved plant that grows in fields and makes a nice lawn.

200 Bunnies in Ontario Rescued

2011-06-26T18:30:00.000-07:00

Rabbit Rescue in Ontario, Canada is helping with a large rescue of 200 rabbits that included pregnant does. According to the Guelph Mercury online, Havina Porter of Rabbit Rescue has been as busy as the Energizer Bunny and already has foster homes lined up for about 50 of the 200 rabbits seized from a home in Manitoulin Island, Ontario. Across the province animal shelters are taking in the rabbits to assist the Sudbury branch of the Ontario Society for the Prevention against Cruelty to Animals. Rabbit Rescue will be accommodating most of the rabbits. Since the investigation is ongoing the circumstances surrounding the rescue raid in May are not being discussed yet. The rabbits have been examined by a veternarian, and they will be neutered and spayed. For information about this rescue, to make a donation or to apply to adopt a rabbit, visit Rabbit Rescue, or email haviva@rabbitrescue.ca These are adorable bunnies and more photos of the rabbits are at this Link. (Photo Credit: Rabbit Rescue)

23 Foot Rabbit Statue Gets Facebook Page

2011-06-23T08:18:00.000-07:00

Oregonlive.com featured Harvey, a 23 Foot Rabbit statue who presides over a stretch of highway in a suburb west of Portland, OR. Harvey, now has his own Facebook page with over 6,000 fans. The big bunny is smartly dressed in a blue jacket, red ascot, and starched white pants. He is not a cuddly vision of that other blue coat wearing bunny, Peter Rabbit. But Harvey has rare blue eyes and his body used to be a service station man before his head was transplanted on top. He fronts a marine store which is okay, but I think he could be put to better use. Harvey could be a big attention getter for all the rabbits who are waiting for forever homes in the Portland area. He certainly has some marketing chops. I haven't contacted the good people at Rabbit Advocates about this idea. They already do a great job in rescue and adoption of rabbits. And, in some ways Harvey may send the wrong message about rabbits like it's okay to dress them up in clothes and then house them outside near a noisey highway. However, I have to admire Harvey for his ability to attract fans.(Photo credit: Oregonlive.com)

On the Wild Side: Jackrabbit Joins Golf Tour

2011-06-20T21:23:00.000-07:00

Last week a jackrabbit decided to tag along with the Fort Morgan City Council on their tour of a local golf course. The reporter at the Fort Morgan Times called this a “rabbit,” but one look at those ears and there is no mistake this is a hare. “Jackrabbit” is a confusing name since hares are only cousins to rabbits like cottontails (or domesticated rabbits). They were give the name since their ears were similar to a male donkey's (also known as a "jackass"). Colorado is home to white-tailed jackrabbits, black-tailed jackrabbits (it's smaller cousin), and snowshoe hares. All jackrabbits (or hares) are built for speed. They can easily span 5 to 10 feet in one hop and upwards to 20 ft. when escaping a predator. Even at a moderate pace every fourth or fifth hop is considerably higher so they can see predators or just get a better look around. I’m sure the golf course looks like dinner in the evening for these grass grazing lagomorphs. (Photo credit: Fort Morgan Times)

Earless Rabbits New Media Sensation

2011-06-19T21:39:00.000-07:00

The earless rabbit alarm hit a new high this weekend. After the sensation caused by the little white earless bunny in Japan, earless rabbits are suddenly newsworthy. Villagers in China discovered three new born rabbits without ears recently. The adorable grey bunnies already have a youtube video online.

Puppy Love - A Bonded Rabbit and Dog

2011-06-19T20:58:00.000-07:00

A rabbit fan from Australia sent me this photo by Steven Jaquiery and a link to an article about a Chihuahua and rabbit who are best friends in New Zealand. This pair are almost the same size and according to the report they enjoy playing and are inseparable buddies. Read article at this Link. Rabbits can bond with dogs. However, it depends upon the dog and rabbit personalities. Any introduction and time together should be a well supervised. For more information on bonding dogs with rabbits see this article at the House Rabbit Society website: When Fido Met Thumper.

SPCA of Upstate New York Hoarding Rescue

2011-06-16T08:24:00.000-07:00

Rabbits seem to be in the news this past couple of weeks in several large hoarding or abuse cases. The most recent was just yesterday when News 10 reported that 60 animals including several rabbits were rescued from a home in a hoarding case. That's the bad news, but the good news is there are people who go into these heartbreaking situations and help the animals! See video below:

Buns N' Roses in Singapore

2011-06-14T07:57:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I received an email from Rani from Indonesia who sent me photos from the Flower Festival in Sentosa Singapore this past February. The theme was rabbits, of course. A few of her photos are shown below and you can see more about the Year of the Rabbit in Sentosa here. They also featured a giant topiary rabbit and palm trees wrapped to look like carrots. Singapore has a very active House Rabbit Society Chapter and are dedicated advocates for rabbits in that country. See more about their rabbits and good work at the link above.

Year of the Rabbit Hopping All Over Cleveland

2011-06-13T19:37:00.000-07:00

If you visit Cleveland before the summer is over, they are celebrating the Year of the Rabbit with 24 fiberglass rabbits. The sculptures feature designs created by Northeast Ohio artists. They have been installed throughout Cleveland's St. Clair Superior neighborhood and in other locations in downtown Cleveland. Eight of the 24 rabbits were on display (pictured) during the Cleveland Asian Festival in May. On September 24th, a gala auction event will be held at the Cleveland Masonic Temple and Auditorium. See photos of all the artistic rabbits here. Cleveland is also fortunate to have the Buckeye House Rabbit Society rescuing abandoned rabbits. Their rabbits for adoption are all beautiful originals. See their photos

here. Photo above courtesy A. Wellington.

Thoughts on Lab Rabbit Rescue

2011-06-10T11:30:00.000-07:00

Over a week ago I received a two sentence email about six “lab rabbits” that were scheduled to be euthanized later that day. It was vague, but it got my attention. The person who emailed me said his wife worked at a major research facility and the bunnies were not used as test subjects. He wanted to know if I knew of anyone who could take them. I wrote back for a location and sent him contact info for a half dozen rabbit rescue organizations in the Northern California Bay Area. The next day I learned the rabbits were safe with the good folks of Harvest Home Animal Sanctuary who posted their adoption photos. (Many thanks to Harvest Home!) I was overjoyed to see them - six big beautiful New Zealand white rabbits who will make wonderful house rabbits. By the way, you can meet Harvest Home’s adoptable rabbits on the first Saturday of the month at the East Bay SPCA - Tri-Valley, in Dublin, CA. Photo Credit: Matthew, former lab rabbit now available for adoption.

In 2007, (most recent year of available data) 236,511 rabbits were used in research in the United States. They are 23% of the total number of animals reported to the USDA making rabbits the largest category of reported species. With these staggering numbers, breeding rabbit “test models” is a multi-million dollar business as are the studies that use them receiving grants and corporate funding. It is easy to surf the internet and find specialized companies selling rabbit test models at prices over $100 each (multiple that by 236,511 rabbits for 2007).

Could this industry be worried about their public image? Recently, they pulled out the “cute kid card” by posting billboards pitting a rat’s life against that of a cute little girl. It is apparent they have the funds to spend on a national billboard campaign to try to sway public opinion. The better question I have seen asked on Care2.com is: “Does the rat [or rabbit] have to die so a little girl can live?” Most times not according to Dr. John Pippin, an advisor to PCRM who said, "90 percent of drugs that worked on animals failed in human trials."

While I am thrilled six rabbits escaped possible pain and death, thousands never find a safe haven. These six “lab” rabbits will make wonderful companion animals - maybe even in a home with a cute young girl who loves bunnies.

More Info: Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, The National Anti-Vivisection Society

The Tale of Peter Rabbit Hopped into Publishing History Today in 1900

2011-06-09T13:36:00.000-07:00

At 27 years old Beatrix Potter sent a picture and story about a family of rabbits to the five year old son of her former governess, Annie Moore. (Beatrix Potter had a rabbit named Peter.) Moore encouraged Beatrix to publish the story which became a book titled The Tale of Peter Rabbit and Mr. McGregor's Garden. She sent it to six publishers, and was rejected by all six since it did not include color pictures. Beatrix Potter was not the type to be easily discouraged so she self-published 250 copies of The Tale of Peter Rabbit. Within the year she signed a contract with publisher, Frederick Warne and Co., and by the end of the year, 28,000 copies were in print. This small book was the beginning of many other books by Beatrix Potter as we all know. She was not only an artist and storyteller, but also a scientific expert on fungi and a conservationist. See more about her (and Peter) at The World of Peter Rabbit website. Photo Credit: Beatrix Potter, ‘Pencil study of Peter Rabbit’ Frederick Warne & Co.

Real Bambi and Thumper

2011-05-31T09:03:00.000-07:00

In Montana Svetlana Harper, spotted a fawn by the roadside, brought her home and nursed her back to health. What she didn't count on was her her dog Stasha, and her rabbit Thumper becoming best friends with Bambi. Apparently, Thumper and Bambi are inseparable and play together, take naps side by side and follow each other round all day. Life imitates a Disney movie. Rabbits will bond for life and if you read the article there are even more adorable photos at this Daily Mail Link. Plus, you will see the rabbit, fawn, dog and a cat friend in the mix. I love it! Photo credit: Caters News Agency in Daily Mail

Battery Cages Out in UK & What about the US?

2011-05-30T19:38:00.000-07:00

It was a victory for animal welfare in the UK this past week when the farmer who submitted plans to build six barns across the country housing up to 1,000 rabbits in each withdrew his application. Several animal welfare groups there including the RSPCA were very concerned about the return to intensive battery style rabbit farming. According to the Farmers Guardian news, the proposed farms "would have been the first rabbit factory farms in the UK in 15 years and would each have housed up to 1,100 rabbits in wire cages stacked three high inside windowless barns. This kind of unnatural environment – which provides no fresh air or sunlight – can cause extremely painful bone disorders and foot inflammation and lead stressed animals to resort to neurotic, self-destructive behaviour.”
While I was pleased for all the people in the UK who managed to stop the return of battery cages, I think it is important to look at what is happening in the United States. The photo above is from a video of a facility outside New York City. Sometime ago I was sent a video of a rabbit "farm" where rabbits are raised for New York City restaurants. You can see the video at this Link.

Bunnies Go Boum

2011-05-30T18:31:00.000-07:00

Surfing around one of my favorite artist's websites, www.nikisha.com I found this great little video called, "Bunnies Go Boum." The artwork is the creation of Nikisha Elsje VanderHoeven. I played the video and my rabbits' ears perked up . . . maybe Nikisha is on to something. I half expected the binkies to start. Check out her etsy shop called Bluedogrose