I have also asked this before, and from the information I received, it is not a good idea to pick up a rabbit by the scruff. It is especially dangerous if their hind quarters are not supported because they can kick and break their back if they struggle or are picked up incorrectly. In addition, their skin is very sensitive and thin, and can tear easily, so that is also a a big risk when picking up a rabbit by the scruff. If it were me I would just politely request that the vet tech not pick up your bunny that way, and show them how you do it. It isn’t unusual for new vet techs to not be as familiar with rabbits, but I would hope that the vet would teach them a better way to pick up a bunny.

I might be a softie-but I don’t like when people pick cats or dogs up by their scruff (because their parents did?) either. They aren’t pups anymore and you aren’t using your teeth-so I don’t think it’s ‘natural’

That’s too bad the vet office didn’t work out for you but better you noticed and now can find a good vet!!

I think mother rabbits do pick them up that way if they really have to do so, but an adult rabbit is way different than a baby. I’ll admit that I do control one of my chihuahua’s by the scruff if she is trying to attack another dog. I’ve done it since she was a baby and she goes completely limp when I do so.

I’ll admit that I do control one of my chihuahua’s by the scruff if she is trying to attack another dog.

THAT’s completely different-first you aren’t picking up a fifty pound dog, and that’s different. And second it’s very important in that situation, a signal your giving-that your in control, dominant, and biting around the neck to control (well obviously not really biting)-that’s very different to do and I agree with that for sure

In your case you’re probably trying to save your chihuahua since I’m assuming the dog she is attacking is probably bigger than her