How are the ‘bean-ie’ bunnies (Holiday & Fiesta)?

[MimzMum]

My daughter and I are still chuckling about the Great Green Bean Race. I was hoping for an update on Holiday and Fiesta. Every time I think of them, I think of the cute little sea turtle babies flapping their way towards the ocean.

My daughter got me the cutest little plush bunny for Easter…she’s white with a little bow around her neck that has jelly beans printed on it…so we call her ‘Nilly Beanz’ in tribute to those two little adorable buns.

I do hope they’re still doing well.

EDIT: Ooops…messed up the title of the post, could an admin please clean it up for me? Thankies!

[Kokaneeandkahlua]

Oh darn I don’t know how to fix titles…YES we want more pic’s or vids of holiday and fiesta…Such beautiful bunnies!!

[Scarlet_Rose]

Sure, how would you like me to fix it up? O.K. I just touched it up a bit, let me know if you want me to change it.

K & K, just click the “Edit” button on the original post in the upper right corner of Mimz post OR when you are viewing the discussion topics, click on the edit button in the same row as the title you want to change way over to the right of it.

[wendyzski]

I was wondering about them too!  Please update us on their progress.

(and I refer to them as the “floppy turtle bunnies”)

[Beka27]

yes.  i’m curious too… they were quite amazing buns with an awesome bunny slave.

[angoralvr]

Oh man guys, I’m really sorry to be the bearer of bad news but I don’t think that Leaf has been on here much so I am going to go ahead and update you. . . Unfortunately Leaf lost Fiesta earlier this month. . . He was just getting too big and his little body couldn’t handle it anymore.

Holiday is doing pretty well though. I don’t think that Leaf would mind me crossposting the pictures she put on our other forum so I’ll be back in a bit to add some new pictures of Holiday.

[angoralvr]

Well, I was going to try and post a few pictures, but I can’t seem to get it to work. . . . . I suppose I would have to load them into my photobucket first. I will try again later, Lilly is out having her first adventure outside of her room so I’m going to go watch her.

 

 

 

[Beka27]

oh no. 

[kralspace]

Oh no, poor Leaf, she must be devastated, with everything she poured into those little souls. Tell her how much we’re thinking about her and the buns.

Kathy

[Sarita]

That’s so sad – I’m glad he had alot of love in his short sweet life.

[babybunsmum]

i’m so sorry.  he was loved & well taken care of… sweet bun.  please pass along my condolences as well.

[angoralvr]

 I will definately pass along the condolences from the BinkyBunny crowd and I’m sure they will be appreciated.

 

Here are a few pictures of Holiday in his pool. He is doing pretty well despite it all. . . . . Lol, I love the banana one.

 

[Sarita]

The pool is a great idea – love the nanner picture too.

[MarkBun]

That’s the trouble with those lil darlings. Once they get too big, their weight becomes too much for their chests. All we can do for them is give them as much love before they pass on and know deep down that they had a great, if short life.

[wendyzski]

I was afraid of that when we didn’t hear anything.  *sobs*  She must be devastated. 

I’m sure little Fiesta soaked up a lot of love in his short time on earth.  Leaf is an angel for taking on these little ones, knowing that their time might be short.  Please pass on our best wishes to her and rubs to little Holiday.

[Scarlet_Rose]

Sad…very very sad…Too many bunny deaths lately.

[MimzMum]

Oh I am sorry to hear about poor Fiesta. But we know where he is now, he’s running free as can be, with no more leg troubles. Binky free little one! We will all miss you terribly! *sniffle*
Please pass my condolences on to Leaf also, and tell her I’ll light a candle for Fiesta.

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/message.cfm?l=eng&cid=5625151

I’m sorry to have brought up such a sad subject, but Markus is right, that little critter had the lion’s share of love in his short time.
Blessings to Leaf and Holiday. The piccies are adorable and I’ll keep my prayers going to keep little Holiday’s life comfortable and happy, which I am sure he is with all that nana to eat! ^^
Angoragrl, please say hello to Leaf for me and tell her we’d sure like to see her back here if she so chooses. Lotsa huggles too!

[Kokaneeandkahlua]

Sorry I saw the answer earlier but I was just to sad to respond…I hate hearing that any of our buns are sick or have passed as you all and your buns seem like family now, but gosh did that little Fiesta touch my heart. I must have shared those pictures with fifty people. I’m soo sad today, but bittersweet as I know how well looked after, loved and happy Fiesta was and that he’s at rainbow bridge with no more disability. Good *VIBES* for Leaf she’s in my thoughts and prayers and so is little Holiday.

[Lisa_43]

I must of missed this one. I am so sorry that Fiesta passed away, he was so lucky to have been given a wonder careing home with lots of love.

Binky free Fiesta over the rainbow bridge where you will become whole again.

[Holly]

Awww. I’m not sure what to say. Leaf is an amazing person for taking on something like this. I am sad to hear about Fiesta. I”m glad Holiday is doing well. The pics are cute.

[Twilight]

You guys are all great and I’m so glad an update came here about Fiesta. I’ve been heartbroken about everything, in so many ways.

To catch things up – I had a private message on another forum asking about care for splay legged bunnies. On February 27th this is how I replied:

When I sent this PM out on Feb 27th to one of our forum members I didn’t originally intend to make it public.

However, with problems we’re starting to face here I’ve decided to post it. I was *so* happy to be able to candidly talk about the boys even though some realities are hard to face:

…

Both Holiday and Fiesta have good quality of life right now, but my vet (and I agree) feels they will not reach maturity, or much further beyond that point.

She feels strongly that they are New Zealands or mixes, which means their potential to grow is great within the upcoming months.

The boys lay fully extended on their bodies with almost no support from any of their legs. They resemble seals at rest with no tail or appendage support.

Fiesta is growing faster than Holiday. His body, if you could see in person, is alarmingly flat already.

They both need proper nutrition in order to keep them healthy – internally they cannot affoard to be ill as they need full function of all organs since the organs bear great pressure and have to work harder than those of an ordinary system.

Of course, their genetic make-up only knows one map system, and they are at their maximum growth period NOW.

Because I know them on a day-to-day, hour-to-hour level the vet trusts me to keep an eye on their progress. When I have doubts or questions they are welcome at the office and blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen levels can be checked.

Unfortunantly there isn’t a lot more that can be done.

They have to live as stress free as possible – little excitement in order to keep heart rates normal and oxygen levels up, lungs clear of residue.

Because Fiesta is heavier he cannot breathe deeply. Due to this, his lungs are at risk daily for any type of buildup that could worsen. He is comparable to a person with cystic fibrosis.

Holiday can prop his rear quarters up by extending his back knees. This, and his smaller size, has kept his body more normally rounded so his organs aren’t as affected.

The negative side of Holiday’s outlook is he is absolutely LOST without Fiesta around. His stress level increase quite a bit if he is not within sight of his brother.

As the weaker of the two, Fiesta is at higher immediate risk. As the more dependant of the two, Holiday does not manage well without Fiesta.

Losing one to quality of life/health issues … It’s hard to put into words, but I expect to lose Fiesta first. If that happens Holiday will be alone and unhappy and unfortunantly (though I NEVER wish a disability on any rabbit) finding an appropriate bond-mate for Holiday would be nearly impossible at least in a timely matter that would *possibly* make a difference.

These boys have been together from the beginning and when the rescue took them in there wasnt much hope of adopting them out. Once Fiesta started showing stress signs their adoption potential went DOWN – and realizing the bond between the two- no corrective vetting was done on their legs because time had already began to stand still for them.

(I refused to decline the adoption even though I knew he was getting bad once I was finally told of the situation)

Depending on * rabbits’ splay, organs can shift at various degrees. Some effects are rarely noticeable or affective on a body. These two have been dealt quite a hand. What they are, they are. Various routes could have been taken in their fate but this one was put into play and my absolute goal for them is to provide comfort, support and love – all while trying to keep an open and honest outlook.

But really, it isn’t easy. Losing one is almost a guarantee of losing the other – but then I have to be fair and can’t hold onto one longer than what is fair… all to prolong the others lifespan.

It’s a lot to think about, always in the back of my mind. Day to day is the best way to live with these babies. Each day is a blessing, each ounce gained a curse as to the double edged sword it represents.

If I think of it too long … I don’t really. Anything less than celebrating each moment spent together is a moment lost and I don’t want that.

Not right now.

…

Now – some interesting tidbits: I’ve always wanted a flemish giant. If I were ever to have a rabbit (before I even had rabbits) my intent was to have one of this breed. I had found a breeder a few manageable hours from my home that breeds flemish giants. The babies were due on Feb 28th (my birthday) but were born on Feb 27th, the day I sent this PM out. I emailed the breeder – they had 13 babies and I was thrilled. I did get on a waiting list.

On February 28th I was emailed, they lost all but 4 of the babies and within a matter of days they were down to three and had asked everyone to understand, but they weren’t selling those babies.

On March 2nd I found a beautiful flemish giant boy, 10 months old on Craigs List. Not named, not needed – wanted to trade for a female as the person had purchased what she thought was 3 females but ended up with an unwanted male. He was being offered as trade for a female. I couldn’t resist – I emailed the person and she ended up selling him to me at  “meat price” for $15. Of course, he’s a pet, and a story all of his own…

On March 6th I brought the flemish boy home. While I was excited, once everything played out the way it did I felt SO guilty for bringing him here. I kicked myself over and over because I just *had* to get what I wanted and for the first time ever I BELIEVED in karma….

On March 10th I blogged this:

Today isn’t starting off well. Here’s a post I just sent to the disabled rabbit group I’m part of:

…

Some of you may remember my initial posts about Holiday & Fiesta the splay legged bunnies I adopted through rescue.

My bigger boy, Fiesta, is currently having more issues than he’s had before.

Over the last few days his breathing has been more labored, his appetite has gone down and his poop has lessened.

He has been vetted several times and the last time there were ‘moist’ sounds in his chest. Not *much* to worry about but the condition has yet to clear up.

I recently bought different hay in order to entice his eating, to little/no avail.

This morning he is even more lethargic than usual. He did drink some but he shows no interest an any food at all.

I know I’ve sent pictures and video links out. Last night I worked on my photo bucket account, moving images to folders so links may be broken at this point. Once I get a chance I’ll resend pictures of the boys.

My vets prognosis is grim, as the boys grow their weight will eventually cause more harm than good. At this point, as Fiesta is bigger, he is feeling the strain.

With no two legs that will work together a mobility cart isn’t an option for him.

Compromised breathing is hurting Fiestas quality of life at this point.

The vet has left me with “it’s a matter of time”. Other area vets have been less than blunt with their observations when both boys were doing well.

I am just at a loss this morning. Time is very crucial right now but the main problem is deciding when enough really is enough – or when more could help, if even for a short while.

I’ll update as I can with this.
…….

March 12th:

Fiesta showed no improvement through Monday. Even through care from the vet he was unable to remain comfortable or breathe without difficulty into Tuesday evening.

Xrays showed additional problems Fiesta had acquired due to the skeletal twisting due to his weight and body posture. Organ damage and malfunction were adding stress to his body that may have been able to be temporarily corrected *if* surgery were preformed but with his breathing difficulties surgery was not an option at this point and with his steady decline the outlook wasn’t good at all.

His stress was very evident early this morning, appetite completely exhausted and with very heavy hearts we decided to let him go rather than to keep him in so much distress while hoping for a possible turn in his condition.

It is a beautiful day outside right now and not one I would have wanted to spend this way – burying my boy.

……….

So, in the midst of finding a breeder, thinking I’d get a flemish baby in a few months, losing “my baby” pretty much on my birthday, finding another flemish and bringing him home – losing Fiesta on my Mom’s 50th birthday, feeling guilty for bringing home the 10 month old flemish… GAAAK.

Life has been hectic.

I’m in Missouri and we’ve had some severe flooding here. Between work, my pets and sick family members everything seems to be working at a frantic pace. I am so glad, though, that where Fiesta is buried wasn’t affected by the immediate flood waters. Kind of bittersweet, but my first purchases from binky-bunny are some that will remain with Fiesta forever, I suppose. Oat hay, a nice grass mat and a piece of pet palace vet bed sent him on his way, along with some of his favorite – dried banana.

[babybunsmum]

oh dear (((((((((((leaf))))))))))) and (((((((((holiday)))))))))  my heart breaks for you.  thanks so much for the update.  i must admit it scares me a little to know that i can shed so many tears for a wee bun that i have never met.  what a beautifully written post.  and what lucky buns to be under your care… you are a very brave and caring person.  i do know how difficult it is to face the inevitable as i lost my dad after his 11 month battle with terminal lung cancer several years ago now.  my mind wanted to think i would have time to prepare in advance but of course that can never work. 

on a lighter note, i’m so glad that you went ahead with adopting the flemmy!   what a gorgeous and really huge boy… wow!  i hope that he will help keep your heart full love.  stay safe from the floods leaf.  i hope your hectic life eases up soon. 

peace

[Scarlet_Rose]

Leaf – With your permission, I would like to add this discussion to the FAQ section for future reference. Would that be O.K.?

Still so very sorry for your loss. But I have to say I love Flemmies!

[MimzMum]

Dearest Leaf,
I have to say, your eloquence and ability to relate what is obviously a very hard and touching story has found me awash in tears at the end of it. Not to be glib about the floods, but it sure seems like your life has been an example of “when it rains it pours” lately. I feel so sorry for you and Holiday and Fiesta, I can picture you all in my mind as you describe how you went about giving those two adorable little buns such quality of life. You’ve been very candid that you knew what you were taking on and that you are able to take on so much and handle it so well…you are truly an inspiration!

I think, rather, that your Flemmie (ooo, I am SO jealous!) is perhaps there to help bring you through this. He seems sent by a higher power to me. And yes, I can say that as I take care of two bunnies, three cats, two large dogs, a goldfish, two teenagers (one heading to college this fall), my disabled husband and myself and anyone else who comes to the door in need, animal or human…but here mostly animal. Try not to feel guilty about your big boy, as Holiday’s future is at best uncertain, at some point he will reunite with his brother and you will know you have done the best you can for him up to that point. I think you are the MOST WONDERFUL person I have never met personally and I am so proud of all you have done. You have nothing to be guilty or distressed about, you have done some great things for some tiny souls who were unable to do for themselves. You are indeed a marvel! ((((((((((((((((((Leaf)))))))))))))))))

I haven’t your way with words, so I am sure this post seems long, rambling and unfocused…but I guess I just want to say, you are quite marvelous! Your bunnies have been so fortunate to have you in their lives!
I’m going to copy and keep this thread in my own bunny files, as I think reading it over and over again will definitely help me remember that it’s not the amount of time one spends on this earth…it’s what you do with that time that matters. You’ve given us all a wonderful perspective on quality, Leaf…and so did little Fiesta, bless him!
May he always rest peacefully and play happily beyond that Rainbow Bridge with all his lovely gifts that you gave to him…the most precious being your love.

[Beka27]

(((((hugs)))))

thanks for sharing that.

[Twilight]

Scarlet Rose, you’re more than welcome to add it to the FAQ section.

[wendyzski]

I’m akind of glad that I’m not the only one who cried like a baby when I heard about little Fiesta.  Not that I wish tears on anyone, but I feel better knowing that I wasn’t the only person sobbing for the loss of a tiny bunny that I never met.

Their story has touched so many people – not just the people on the groups you posted to but all the people we told about the “little floppy-turtle-bunnies”.

I’m glad that you got your Flemmie, and I hope he comforts you when Holiday has to leave you too.  I know we’re said it before, but you and all the people who fought to get those babies to you are angels.

[Kokaneeandkahlua]

Oh Leaf!! *HUGS* Fiesta was soo lucky to have you and be loved and cared for in his short life. I am so sorry for your loss, you carried the pain and the burden to give his sweet little soul a life worth living, regardless of the hand he was dealt. Although this is all so painful for you to go through, you undeniably made Fiesta’s life worth living and you are still making little Holiday’s life what it is, by loving and caring for him. I hope you believe in Karma as you said, because you deserve the best, I hope all the best things come your way. I can’t put into words what you’ve done for those little babies. You’ve touched so many people. All the best for you Leaf.

[MooBunnay]

I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of little Fiesta – but you did give him a fantastic life as long as he was able to live, and in addition you were strong enough to let him go peacefully when it was his time to go. I lost a baby bunny about a year ago, and it comforts me to imagine her up in bunny heaven prancing around and free of all her pain. I’m sure she and Fiesta are up there playing all together. I will keep Fiesta in my prayers, and Holiday too as he grows up. Everything that you have been doing for both of them is just great, you have given them a great life, a much better one than they were destined for when they got abandoned, it is people like you and your kind actions that remind me that there are good people in the world!

In addition, I’m glad that you were able to get another bunny friend! He looks absolutely HUGE! My fiance and I are quite jealous because we’ve always wanted a ginormous bunny like that

[Sage Cat]

Like the others I all so agree that Fiesta was soo lucky to have you and be loved and cared for in his short life. It is so hard to loose or sweet little friend.
I believe You & The Flemish boy found each other at just the right time!

[Lisa_43]

Oh Leif, I am so sorry for everything that has happend to you lately. Feista had a wonderful human mum who loved and cared for him until the end, and beyond. I will light a candle for him. God bless.

[Scarlet_Rose]

Thank you Leaf, it must be so hard to talk about it. (((HUGS)))

[Author]

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