Transporting Your RabbitTravelling can be stressful to rabbits. It is important as their guardians to learn the best and safest methods limit the stress as much as possible. There are many factors when it comes to transporting rabbits, such as: type of carrier, if the rabbit is bonded, food/water, flooring and placement in a vehicle. Type of Carrier When it comes to carriers, there are two main types: hard or soft sided.Soft sided carriers (often looking like purses) have superior visual appeal, but they have a few downfalls: their fabric sides often make them an easy victim to a rabbit's chewing and they offer minimal protection if your vehicle were in an accident. Hard sided carriers are the best option, generally cat sized unless you have a larger breed rabbit. Hard sided carriers are also more hygienic, as they're easier to clean. When selecting your carrier, you should ensure that there is enough room for your rabbit to be able to turn around. If you have bonded rabbits, they should travel together in the same carrier - so make sure there is room for both of them. Getting a rabbit in and out of a carrier can be challenging. Some carriers offer top access, which makes them a bit easier to get you rabbit in and out of the carrier in comparison to front access only. I strongly recommend a carrier with top access. I can assure you that disassembling the entire carrier because you can't get your rabbit out of the small front door is a hassle. Bring Hay Rabbits always need to have access to food. Add a small handful of hay into the carrier to allow your rabbit the option to eat while they travel. A lot of rabbits will be too stressed to eat while in a vehicle, but they should always have the option to eat. Having food in the carrier is especially important if you're travelling a longer distance. If you're travelling for several hours, you should take a break and offer your rabbit some water. I do not recommend leaving a water bottle or bowl in the rabbit carrier as they will usually spill or leak as the vehicle travels. Keeping your rabbit hydrated on long trips is very important. Flooring Carriers are slippery, so it is important to offer your rabbit a non slip surface while travelling. Folded fleece blankets are ideal, as they're soft. A large, folded fleece blanket is unlikely to bunch and slide. Towels can be used, but they pose a greater risk of your rabbit's nails getting caught in the fibers and tearing off. Vehicle Safety Unfortunately, there are no ways to currently ensure your rabbit won't be hurt if your vehicle was in an accident. There are ways to minimize the risks though: 1. Place the carrier on the back seat and fasten the seat belt through the top handle. Lock the seat belt by pulling it all the way until it clicks. 2. Place the carrier on the floor behind the passengers seat. Ultimately you will need to make this decision yourself as to what the safest option is for your rabbit. You can view this video of the Harness Crashworthiness Study from 2013 and form your own opinion, or read this article by BunnyApproved.
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