Choosing a bunny is an exciting adventure. You are going to get a new friend! So what kind of a rabbit should you get? Where do you find the one you want? How do you know if the rabbit is healthy? Should you get more than one? How do you get ready to bring the rabbit home?
These are all good questions to consider. Personally, we always begin our choosing a bunny adventure with prayer.
Be sure to get you baby bunny neutered as soon as is possible.
Which Breed?
There are 45 official breeds recognized in America (see their photos) , plus the numerous mixed breeds. They all make for wonderful companions. Which one to choose depends on your set of circumstances. So here are some general guidelines to help (very general, because each bunny has an unique personality).
1. Smaller rabbits are more active and tend to need more supervision, whereas larger bunnies are more docile and less active. 2.Baby rabbits need to be trained, whereas older rabbits have their personalities set. 3. Long-haired rabbits need daily brushing, whereas short-haired rabbits need to be brushed about once a week (daily when shedding). 4. Male rabbits (bucks) tend to be more aggressive, whereas female rabbits (does) are more territorial.
In choosing a bunny, try to spend at least 30 minutes with he/she before you take him/her home. If you are allowed to take it home for a couple of days for a tryout, that’s even better.
Note: With a mixed breed baby it is hard to tell how big they are going to get.
Adoption: The Best Choice
Choosing a bunny to adopt is a great choice! You are not only getting a companion, you will have the comfort of knowing you have probably saved your bunny’s life. Tens of thousands of unwanted bunnies are PTS (Put To Sleep) every year in America alone.
The first place to look to adopt is a Rabbit Rescue group in your area, or go to your local Humane Society(List of Rescue Groups). Some of these bunnies may have health and psychological issues so you will need to observe them closely for signs of ill-health. Are the eyes clear, bright and alert? The ears clean and non-smelly? The coat shiny, and not matted up or infected with fleas? Are there sores on the feet? Are the teeth lined up properly? Is breathing natural? Is the bottom clean and free of urine burn and feces? Is the nose free of mucous? Are there any bony lumps on the spine or head? And make sure to watch the bunny hop to see if he is graceful and not awkward or unbalanced.
Choosing a bunny with health issues is a noble thing to do, but examine yourself first to make sure you can afford the veterinarian expenses that may be incurred.Continue
Choosing A Bunny
their personalities set.