Hi all. I am full of anxiety right now and I just needed some advice!

I am moving overseas for work for a year, and I did not think it was best to take Nova with me. For one, she would not be allowed in the cabin (the flight was booked by my company) and two, she is a very nervous girl who hates travelling. My mother agreed to care for Nova while I’m gone, but her care is basic at best, she has next to no time to spend with my bunny, and I don’t think she would take Nova to the vet if necessary due to personal reasons.

My flight is in 3 days.. I don’t even want to leave because I’ve been worrying so much about my poor girl. I wish I didn’t have to go. But when I was voicing my concerns about my mom’s care to an old friend of mine, she told me that that she would love to look after Nova for a year! My friend, C, has had a bunny in the past and loves animals dearly. But Nova would have to move into her apartment as she lives about 45 minutes away from me. I thought it might be a better situation.. But I’m in a bit of an anxious dilemma… weighing my options and most of all, worrying about Nova.

On one hand, Nova has lived at my mom’s house for 6 months now, so she is very comfortable there and has not had any issues with stasis or anything. The vet is only about 15 minutes away and they know Nova (if I can get my mom to take her there.. we disagree on the topic of spending money on animals for medical problems). But my mom is busy and will not give Nova a lot of attention, although her basic needs would be met.

On the other, C is very excited to meet and bond with Nova, and will give her lots of attention and extra care. I know she would take Nova straight to the vet if she sees any warning signs; she at least knows how to Google any potential problems unlike my mom  HOWEVER, I will have to put my bunny through the stress of a 45 minute car ride into the city and then adjusting a new room/house/owner. And a year is a really long time for her to be away from me…! She has had GI Stasis issues in the past and I’m afraid of that happening again while I’m gone. 

Has anyone had experience with rabbits moving houses or changing owners and adjusting? Nova is a very anxious rabbit but she’s adjusted to two new homes and has grown accustomed to my mother in a few months time. Please give me any advice and thoughts you have on the situation. My head is spinning with stress and I just want what’s best for her. Plus I only have 3 days to decide!