Rehoming Your RabbitThe number of homeless rabbits has drastically increased over the last 5 years. There are more and more rabbits being surrendered or abandoned than ever before, creating a large problem where more homeless rabbits exist than there are rescues to help them. A sad result of this is that some humane societies now need to euthanize rabbits to make space in their shelter. Too often I hear from people who have called every rescue they can find, only to hear that the rescues are full an unable to help. This is a real problem, and one of many challenges people face when trying to rehome their rabbit responsibly BEFORE YOU REHOME: Most people don't come to the decision to rehome their rabbit easily. Life can throw curve balls, and you try to do what is best for your rabbit. With rabbit homelessness at an all time high, it is important to thoroughly think your decision through and make sure you've explored all options to keep your rabbit first.
Before you rehome your rabbit, you should prepare them for their new life ahead first.
Many people who are looking to rehome their rabbit are nervous and uncomfortable with using online classifieds to rehome their rabbits. If done correctly, it is an easy way to look for potential new homes for your rabbit. Many reputable rescue organizations use Kijiji and similar platforms to advertise their adoptable rabbits.
RABBIT RESCUES There are lots of rabbit rescues and humane societies in our area. It is just as important to screen these organizations as it is new potential owners to ensure they will give your rabbit the best care. Here are some questions you can ask:
YOUR RABBIT Before starting The Rabbit Lady, I was the President of Hoppy Hearts Rabbit Rescue. I witnessed first hand the heartbreak of rabbit guardians surrendering their rabbits to us, I've held people as they cried and said their farewells. But more importantly, I witnessed the grief, stress and confusion the rabbits experienced being removed from their homes. Rehoming your rabbit puts them under a lot of stress, they don't understand what is happening. Some rabbits will become depressed, and it takes a lot of one on one care and attention to help them through this big change. There are some small things you can do to make this experience less painful for them. I recommend sending a blanket that smells like you. Try sleeping with a new blanket for a few nights to get your scent on it. Send your rabbit with their favorite toys, treats and their dishes. Any thing that looks and smells like home will make their transition easier. Check in to see how your rabbit is doing. I understand that it may be difficult to reach out to the rescue, but it is important for us running the rescue to see that you do genuinely cared for your old friend, and not that you've simply abandoned them with us (note: not all rescues will disclose information about the rabbit you have surrendered).
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