Hi everyone! I’m hoping maybe one of you will have a solution or advice for an issue I’ve been having. I’ve had my rabbit for about 3 years now, and he is a Holland Lop with a genetic defect that makes his undercoat constantly grow long. When I first got him, the breeder said he’d “need a bit of brushing;” however, he constantly gets very matted. I took him to a groomer initially who shaved him down safely and very skillfully, but I recently moved and am now several hours from that groomer.

I’ve tried multiple groomers in the area- one barely shaved off any fur and left the matting there, one accidentally ripped out one of his nails from holding him incorrectly, and the others have been along similar lines. I decided to try grooming him myself, but I’m not a groomer and I keep accidentally hurting him/ cutting him, which obviously makes me feel terrible. He constantly jumps/twitches/moves during the grooming process no matter how I (or a friend) holds him. There aren’t any vets or other locations that have experience grooming rabbits in my area (outside of Lancaster PA). 

Has anyone else had this issue, and if so, how have you overcome it? The little guy is a great pet otherwise; however, the grooming is becoming so stressful that I’m strongly considering rehoming him. I’m also worried that he’ll go to another home who can’t handle his grooming needs, and I obviously want what’s best for him. Anyone have any advice, or groomer recommendations in that part of Pennsylvania? Thanks in advance!