RE: settling a new rabbit that keeps thumping

[vanessa]

Now you’ve got it 🙂 That is exactly how you want to begin bonding with her. When you just sit with her and ofer her food, even if it takes her months to approach you, by you NOT approaching her first, you let her choose the terms. When you approach her first – she feels threatened. When you allow her to choose when to approach you, she learns not to be afraid of you, learns that you are not trying to eat her (seriousely – they are prey animals), learns you are not trying to capture her, or hurt her. It is WAY more helpful for her if you just sit with her, offer her treats, and not try to approach her first. That’s why I say it’s not like getting to know a new puppy. But it is also that much rewarding – because she made a desicion to trust you. Dogs don’t do that. It’s instinctual. I only pick up my rabbits when I’m taking them to the vet. I do have a disabled bunny who I have to pick up to put him next to his food and to bath him, but that’s an exception. You are on the right track. I look forward to reading how it is going!