My Jumpy Bunny

[Star-xX]

Hello Again,

Ok. I am adopting this adorable rabbit and I will get pics as soon as I can. But he seems jumpy and frightend the people working at the Humain Society (where I’m adopting my bunny) say he is always like that. So when he comes home I don’t know if I should let him explore my (small) room or put him right in the cage first thing. The cage I have is kinda tiny (not really though), it’s just for eating sleeping and relaxing…right? Anyway my bunny is pretty big and I heard the bigger the bunny the friendlier they are, is that true?Also I think he might be jumpy because he was mistreated by jis old owners or somthing bad happend to him. One kinda bad thing is I don’t know how old my bunny is or if he is a he, how do I tell? The workers at the Humain Society didn’t know. All I have to do is bring him/her home and give him/her a name.

p.s. I got the cage all set up and he is coming tomrrow!

[JK]

I’m sure he is frightened!  The poor little guy has probably had a rough life living at the humane society and who knows how his prior owners treated him but probably not very well.  With time, patience and love and a sense of security he most likely will come around and be a wonderful pet. Make sure to get him on a consistent  feeding schedule.  There is a wealth of information on this website so please check out the Bunny Info links above.  Most importantly, please make an appointment for a basic wellness exam with a qualified vet.  The vet can probably tell you approximately how old he is and certainly the sex. Again, once he feels secure in his new environment he should be fine.  But be patient!  He may come around quickly or it may take more time. Good luck.

[BinkyBunny]

I moved this post from the lounge as this really is more of a Q & A question.

Okay, so it looks like you are definitely just going to go ahead and do this, so in that case, all I can do now is offer advice as we go so you can give your rabbit the best care possible.  

DEALING WITH A JUMPY BUNNY – Larger bunnies can be a bit more mellow, however, each bunny really is different and especially if a bunny has had a neglectful, unsocialized or abusive background, any bunny can become just like how you have described. But many times they can be turned around with love and patience. 

So the best thing is to allow him/her to feel safe.  Which means you may want to put him in the cage first and let him/her settle in to his "safe" place, and then allow your bunny to come out on his own, and explore.   Hang out on the ground, and when he approaches you offer a treat.  (but not too many! use mint or rosemary, or if you have carrots, cut a quarter size piece into tons of little itsy bitsy pieces to prevent your bunny from getting sick)

If he is skittish, you may want to hold off on trying to pet him. Bunnies actually "ignore" each other when they are trying to tell each other that they are not wanting to fight or hurt each other.  So if you hang out, but sort of ignore your bunny, this will help him understand you are not a threat.   You have to be patient.  Some bunnies may warm up right away or it can take them days or even weeks.

I have a question about your CAGE:  I am glad your mom bought your bunny a cage, but you also said it was small.  Can you measure it?  How big is the bunny?  Do you know his/her weight? According to the House Rabbit Society the cage or pen should be at least 4 times the size of your bunny – even more if  your bunny is confined for large amounts of time each day.   Check out the "cool habitats" section.  The "cubes" are a great way to allow to give space without taking up too much space.  

AGE: Once a bunny has reached adulthood it can be very hard to tell, but most vets check their teeth.  The more yellow and worn they are, the older they are.  You may be able to see the color, but you won’t be able to see the wearing of the back teeth.  Only a vet can check that.  

MALE or FEMALE:  The fact that the humane society doesn’t know leads me to believe that they haven’t spayed or neutered this bunny either – otherwise they would know this, and it worries me that they can’t tell the difference. Don’t they have a vet?  They really should know this especially if they are adopting them out to people unaltered.   Here’s a link on how to tell the difference http://www.rabbitnetwork.org/articles/sexinggirls.shtml but it can be harder to tell for someone who hasn’t ever done it before.

Here are some more questions so we can help guide you through:

1. What are you going to feed your rabbit?
2. What kind of litter are you going to be using?
3. Where is your rabbit going to be allowed to exercise? 
4. You said you have a dog?  What are you planning on doing with your bunny AND dog?

Be sure to cover all of your electric wires – to your lamps, stereos etc with cord covers.

Last note:  Are you in the United States?  If not, what country?  I can try and find a list of rabbit savvy vets in your area.  

[Star-xX]

Than you for the good advice

My dog is not aloud in my room so it will be no problem for the winter and in the spring/summer I will take my bun in the front yard and around to my friends house. For my small cage I am going to try and get an exctetion on it to make it bigger. At the Humain Society they didn’t know the age or sex becuase the manager wasn’t there and he takes care of that stuff so my mom is going to talk to the manager on Monday (tomorrow).

[Beka27]

is the "jumpy bunny" the only one that is available at the rescue?  maybe you should look at some other rabbits too?  you don’t need to adopt the first one you see.  in my opinion, it’s usually best to focus on personality first… looks second.  the "jumpy bunny" may be cute beyond words, but for a first-time rabbit owner, he or she may be much harder to train and get along with.  and the cute factor fades away quickly when you’re frustrated. 

as far as the cage… most every source i’ve seen recommends that the cage be at least 2 feet by 4 feet… (that’s approximately 60 cm by 120 cm if you’re in a metric country… which i think everyone else is… lol.)  i’ll admit… my rabbit is in the smallest recommended size cage (2 feet by 4 feet) but she has free run of my house for at least 4 hours a day… and very often she’s out for 6 or more hours.  she is really only in there for potty, sleeping, and eating.

edited:  i just saw the bit about your dog.  you need to make sure he can’t get in your room.  the dog will be able to smell your rabbit and altho some dogs get along with bunnies, these are the exception… not the rule.  bunnies can die from fright, so just the site of a dog may be enough to put him or her over the edge.

[Star-xX]

I know about bunnies and how easily they get frightend that is why I made sure my dog can NOT get in my room. My bunny I am getting isn’t scared of dogs beacause he was right beside the dog room at the Humain Society. I am not giving up this bunny he is adorable, sweet, kind, cute and even though he is jumpy, he doesn’t hate me or fear me. This is going to sound wierd but, when he looked at me with his beady pink eyes, I knew he was the perfect bunny for me (I told you it would sound weird). Yes there were other bunnies there but one was WAY to hyper and jumpy and crazy and the other one is the one my sister is getting.

[bigsis7]

Is it white with red eyes? If it is it is probably a new zeland rabbit. Love them! He might be jumpy because he is at a shelter!

[xnovalentine]

I’ve read your other threads and i’m going to echo what everybody else is saying and agree that you really do not sound like you can take care of this rabbit.

I am 21 years old, and in college, and I got my first rabbit a few months ago. I did not research anything about rabbits before I got my lullabelle, and all of a sudden I had a life I was responsible for. So like you have, i researched and found out what to feed her, and that i needed to have her spayed. I really was not ready for this responsibility, but since I am old enough and I know that taking care of a pet is time consuming, costly, and important I am able to make the sacrifices to take care of my rabbit because I a) have a job b) have the patience c) have the knowledge.

I go to the store once a week to buy her veggies – around $12. Then her pellets cost about $13 a month. Hay $10-15 a month. Litter – $13 a month. I have to take her to the vet soon to get blood work done because she has abnormal levels which will cost me $100. Thats a lot of money. I buy her toys all the time because she is a spoiled brat – $10. Look at all that money — where are you going to get your money from? do you have a plan?

How are you going to get to the store to get your rabbit food if your mom is too busy? Is your mom really aware of the cost of vet bills for TWO rabbits? What about toys? Are you going to have enough to keep the bunny busy? A bored bunny is a destructive bunny. What about cleaning up after pee and poop? Are you will to change the litterbox? Are willing to take the time to littertrain?

Lullabelle went crazy before I got her spayed — which cost me $260 total — she chewed everything and ate my carpet in the small room I keep her in. She has a whole room to herself and managed to destroy it. She peed and pooped everywhere. My bed, my couch, my floors, my walls, everywhere. I was not prepared for this, but luckily i am on my own now, i have a job, and I have the knowledge it takes to take care of a rabbit. I really could not let her out of her cage for the week before I had her spay — it was very frustrating, and stressful, and I was ready to give up. What are you going to do if your mom gets angry and wont let you have the rabbit anymore because you dont have enough money to spay/neuter them?

A lot of my stuff has gotten chewed. Important stuff. Books, homework, cords, walls, floors, probably the ceiling once she figures out how to get there. I dont want to sound mean, but why would you want to have a bunny you cannot take care of? Is it really fair to it? If you add up the numbers up there — its going to cost almost $55 a MONTH to take care of just ONE rabbit. You only have $55 until February.

Just think about it — I know your young and believe you can, I remember being that way too about everything but realistically looking at your ability to take care of another life is important. Remember — this rabbit’s LIFE is in YOUR hands and if you’re not in the position to take care of it then that’s on YOU. Thats what it’s like being a grown up, and a pet is a grown-up responsibility. I hope you reconsider and make the right decision.

Please have your mom come read about how to take care a rabbit — have her chat with us and let her decide if she is really ready to help you guys with your rabbits.

[JK]

xnovalentine is saying what the rest of us REALLY want to say to you.  I know your intentions are very good but the truth is you are not prepared for this rabbit in many ways.  We all care so much about animals and are just trying to save you and the bunny from much heartache down the road by not being prepared.  Trust me, I know when you want something so bad you’ll get it no matter what people say but then once you have it you wished you would have listened to the advice of experienced people.  Have you heard the saying "be careful what you wish for"?  It’s so true. I strongly encourage you to volunteer at  a rescue before you even consider adopting.

[Sarita]

I can see that you are pretty determined to get a rabbit – I still don’t think you are totally aware of the responsibility involved and perhaps neither is your mother since you are the only one asking the questions. I really wish we could convince you to do the right thing.

You should NEVER let your rabbit go outside either – it’s too dangerous and if she gets away how are you going to capture her or what if she gets injured. I just think since you’ve never had a rabbit and know how they would react you will be putting the rabbits life in danger by letting her go outside – recently one of our forum members rabbit almost got taken away by a hawk – please don’t let your bunny outside.

Also if your cage is too small then your rabbit will be unhappy…it seems like you are just doing what is convenient for you and not what is right for the rabbit. A rabbit’s personal space is very important.

[BinkyBunny]

Gishebawik-anong – Can you have your mom come to this board and chat with us?

[Beka27]

if you’re determined to do this, how about you get one family rabbit for both you and your sister to share responsibility, instead of two that are going to live in separate rooms?  you guys would be able to both cover expenses, both play with him, and your parents would only need to pay for vet care for one rabbit.  also, if one of you can’t take care of your rabbit for whatever reason, the other will hopefully step up.  it would be better if you could find an area in a mutual living space for the rabbit.  this way the rabbit would have a larger area to play in.  you could also get an exercise pen and attach it to the small cage with ties or clips so bunny has more space to relax.

we’re trying to help you make things easier for everyone involved.  remember, the more money your parents need to spend on the bunnies, the less money there will be for other things your family needs.  i think one rabbit is a compromise that may make everyone happier.  if things go well… there will always be another bunny needing adoption.  maybe if you decide you enjoy having a rabbit, you could get a second one a couple years from now, knowing fully what it entails.

[JK]

Yes, please have your mom at least read this board so she knows what she is getting herself into.  It’s only fair to her as well.

[Star-xX]

Ok Everyone

I know you all a determined to make sure I don’t get this rabbit. But I AM AWARE of the risks and thatI have to take and the responsiblity! I know almost everything i need to know ( My friends let her bunny outside all the time) and the things I don’t know I can ask my sister (she is the expert). I love this bunny SOO much!!!!! and if you guys are trying to take that away from me I am not coming on this site aymore and telling my friends not to ether! 

You guys don’t understand how much time I am willing to give this bunny.I am willing to do anything to have this rabbit in my arms ad to tell my friends he is mine and I rescued him.

[xnovalentine]

the reason why we all think you’re not ready is because you don’t really answer our questions. this really makes us think that you’re not really prepared. we are also concerned for the rabbit, because we all care about them and want them to have owners who are prepared and responsible. we are advocates for rabbits, so we are very concerned with every rabbit’s well-being. we keep asking you how your going to pay for it, and your plans to take your bunny outside and to your friends is really irresponsible as bunnies are runners, have you seen how scared and fast the wild ones outside are? you could never possibly catch one and you could never possibly catch yours. your bunny wont know how to defend itself in the wild.

if you’ve read anything about bunnies you should know that consistency is important. your bunny will get upset and stressed if you take them over to your friends house and give them a a small cage. which causes countless problems i will not even begin to list.

we also want to make sure your bunny doesn’t get sick — its important that your bunny gets a good diet otherwise it will get sick, and then you’re stuck with really expensive vet bills. its not like taking your dog to the vet — you have to take a bunny to a special vet, and its a lot different and much more expensive.

we are happy you want to take care of a rabbit — thats great — but you make it sound like your on your own and you make yourself sound like your not prepared. we are all warning of you of the things that will happen once you get a bunny, and I hope you are paying attention and not focusing on the part where we are asking you to reconsider.

I understand you’re going to get the rabbit no matter what, and you understand that there really isint one thing we can do about it. so just listen to what we have to say and consider it, because its important. just remember that rabbits arent cuddly – just cute. many of them are mean and will bite. not all of them, and it sounds like the rabbit you want to adopt has the symptoms for a mean bunny because of what its been through — which is in its own right.

be prepared and good luck with your bunny.

[BinkyBunny]

Please understand that it isn’t that we don’t want you to have a bunny. We all have experience with bunnies and we know, really know, what it takes. But your own posts reveal that you would be better off with more preparation and research first. We have not said never get a bunny.

We have only asked that you take some more time to research, and to also involve your mom here on the board. There are many people on this board who have experience, and we can help your family  avoid some major disappointments and challenges.

You wouldn’t go skiing down a steep mountain without first putting on skiis and taking a few lessons. You wouldn’t get into a car without learning how to drive first. So we actuallly care very much that you are all happy, and part of making this workout is being able to take the advice that is given and get fully prepared. And even with just the answers you’ve given so far, you still have much to learn. There is nothing wrong with learning more. No one is born knowing everything there is to know about everything, we take the time to do so. You came here for advice, and we have tried to help guide you with questions and suggestions the best way we know how.

[Beka27]

we don’t want you to leave.  if anything, we want you to stay so your rabbit will have a fighting chance.  you need to keep in mind that you are the one who came here initially asking for advice.  we’re giving you this advice, and we’re trying to do so respectfully… and since it’s apparently not what you wanted to hear, you’re now getting defensive about that.  for example, in my last post to you, i said that you could compromise and get one family rabbit.  i’m trying not to completely discourage you… but i’m offering a suggestion that may make the whole family happy. 

i assume (and i apologize in advance if i’m wrong) that the reason you have not invited your mother onto the board is because, if faced with the reality of the situation, the idea would be immediately shot down.  i was young once too… i know that it’s sometimes easier to omit something in order to get your way. 

as far as the negative responses, you need to also recognize that many of the people on this board are involved in shelter/rescue work, volunteering, and educating the public about the joys (and trials) of house rabbit care.  everyday they see bunnies that were once loved and wanted "so much" but who ended up at the shelter as the novelty wore off.  in fact… the very bunny you are adopting was once wanted by someone who later changed their mind.  wouldn’t it be sad if you brought this bunny home and then a month (or a year) later changed your mind.  it wouldn’t be fair to the bunny.  when you bring the rabbit home this week, just remember that he is your responsibility for the rest of his life.

[ScooterandAnnette]

It’s not that people here don’t want you to have a rabbit, it’s just that they want to make sure that you realize all that is involved in owning a rabbit. Despite the fact that they may cost less to adopt than a cat or a dog hey’re not cheap pets to own. Unlike many other pets that can be fed 1 type of food all the time rabbits need variety in their diet – they need specialized foods and constant access to food and hay. As has already been mentioned they’re considered “exotic” pets by vets and many don’t treat them at all. Many times treatments for rabbits are quite expensive. I was mid-30’s when we got our first one and although I thought I was well-prepared I really had no idea of the costs involved.

Please understand that no one doubts your feelings towards the rabbit, or thinks that you don’t or won’t love it. We’re just wanting to make sure that you realize they can be very expensive to own. Most of the bunnies that are given up to shelters are there because the owners realized how much is involved and just couldn’t care for them.

[Star-xX]

Sorry Guys,

I just….uh…welll yestersay I had a total melt-down. I didn’t mean to….well I wasn’t trying to say it to you, I actually really wanted to say that (well not exactly that) to my friend. I AM SOO SORRY!! Everyone has those days, right? And I do understand the prices of a rabbit and I am willing to give all my money up if I need to. Everyone please try to fogive me for what I said yesterday, I just want a bunny soooooo much and I KNOW I can take care of this bunny with love care and anything he needs. -Beka I can’t get a rabbit because my mom HATES rabbits (I am so glad I am even getting one even more two!) and mybroth er always in his room on his computer and doesn’t care about anything or anyone but himself and his computer.

p.s. I AM SOOOOOOO SORRY!!!!!

[JK]

 I am confused!   You say you CAN’T get a rabbit because your mom HATES rabbits?????

[Sarita]

I’m very confused as well. Is your sister getting a rabbit too? And you have a brother? I don’t really understand your comment about your Mom hating rabbits and you are getting one – is that what you meant to say?

[Beka27]

yes… if you can, will you please clarify what you meant in your last post?  i’m confused too.

[Star-xX]

Ok umm well I cant have a house bunny because my brother and mom won’t take care of it (my mom really dislikes bunnies, she says the are usless or something) and my sister wants her own bunny. so we are getting our bunnies in about 3 hours from now.

p.s. Do you guys forgive me?   I am still sorry.

[Sarita]

Okay, I must be totally stupid but I really don’t understand your post – does this mean then you are getting rabbits but that they are going to be kept outside?

[xnovalentine]

I dont think you’re stupid because I dont understand either. Her mom hates bunnies but she is getting one. It just doesn’t make sense.

[Beka27]

i, for one, am not angry with you at all.  it’s just frustrating because it feels like we’re all talking in circles and you don’t seem to understand what we’re trying to say. 

so, where will your bunny be kept when you bring him home today?  inside in your room… or outside?

[JK]

I totally second Sarita.  WHAT ARE YOU DOING?  I thought you were keeping your bunny in your small bedroom!!!  I am VERY VERY VERY concerned about this bunny and your lack of understanding of what it takes to provide a home for him.  You are making things very unclear so that it is very difficult to help you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Star-xX]

lol, sorry im not to good at explaining things. I am keeping my bunny inside my room and even though my mom doesnt like bunnies she is letting me get one but I have to do everything. My mom won’t help at all, I am at full responsiblity, do you guys know what I’m talking about now?

p.s. when I said house bunny I meant family bunny…OOPS!!!

[Lion_Lop_Lover]

How old are you?

[luinge]

I’m new here, but not new to rabbits.

My last rabbit I got when I was 20. Looking back now, I now realize how much work and responsibilty rabbits are. Bunny, (how original I know) can honestly say was more work taking care then our cat. Bunny recently had to be put down after only having him in our life for 4 years. We never got our last rabbit neutered, and I feel it was our fault, because he being sick could have been provented if we neutered him. (Neutering ranges between $130-$400) As he became sick I became stressed out, it was very hard emotionally on me. After 4 months of watching him carefully everyday, feeding him by hand, and $400 at the vet, he took a turn for the worst and we had to put him down.

The reason why I am writing all this is are you prepared for all this? Im not trying to attack you in any way, owning a pet is wonderful, but just take the time and pick the right kind of animal for you, your personality, and your level of responsibilty.

Just yesterday we adopted a new rabbit. (We get him Jan 8, he is booked to be neutered which was very important to us) We paid $45 to adopt him, $80 for NIC cage, $50 for accessories like litter box, chew toys, bedding, litter, food and water bowl and other lil items. We still need to buy him food, hebs, fruits and veggies. We are expecting to send another $40. Our cat costs less a month than our rabbit!!!

Just take your time, don’t ever rush into it. Just remember you are young as well. Your rabbit will more than likely be around when its time to move out, and finding a place that accepts rabbits are hard to find, not to mention more expensive.

Good luck!

[Beka27]

does anyone know what the youngest recommended age is for someone to get a rabbit of their own?  do any sites have an age listed or is it all just on an individual basis?

i really just want to know one thing… a simple yes or no will suffice… will your mother pay for the vet costs?

[luinge]

I would say I wouldn’t recommend anyone getting a rabbit until they are at least 18, but thats just my opinion. Also depends on emotional maturity of the person.  If you think a dog or cat is too much work then forget a rabbit.

[Beka27]

i would say 15 or 16 at the youngest… with parent’s financial help… but even then… interests change so quickly when you’re young… friends and dating take on a priority with most young people in high school… so 18 sounds about right.  but then there’s college or working to deal with… i guess it must be judged on an individual basis.

[Sarita]

Well, I don’t think any website advocates a child being the one soley responsible for the care of any pet. I know House Rabbit Society does not recommend that – the pet is ultimately the parents responsibility with the child helping to care for the pet with adult supervision and financial help.

One of my groups I was in had a rabbit returned after the teenage daughter got tired of caring for it – we learned a big lesson with this one. It was sad and disappointing but at least we got the rabbit back – the parent’s had at least the sense to call us to take Oscar back. He was well-cared for but when the teenager lost interest he was returned – that’s not how it should be.

[Sarita]

I also talked to a lady once who was trying to find a home for a guinea pig because her 4 year old was not caring for it and she got the guinea pig to teach the 4 year old responsibility – I kid you not!

[Beka27]

yeah… i was just wondering if anyone knew what "child" meant in terms of an actual age.  up to a teenager.  or up to adulthood (18). 

regardless of how old you are… i think you’re not fully prepared for this.  i do hope everything works out for the rabbit’s sake tho.

[Beka27]

Posted By Sarita on 12/31/2007 11:42 AM
I also talked to a lady once who was trying to find a home for a guinea pig because her 4 year old was not caring for it and she got the guinea pig to teach the 4 year old responsibility – I kid you not!

oh wow!  i could not even imagine that!  Michael is 4 and he’s "solely responsible" for picking up his toys (and i end up having to help him half the time…)  i could not imagine giving him a living creature to care for.  i much prefer setting an example of responsible behavior thru how i care for Meadow.

[JK]

At this point, you have made up your mind to get the bunny and have heard the suggestions and advice from many experienced people here.  Hopefully you will learn a lot here and surf this site for all the valuable information that is available.  I wish you the best and anything you need, please ask!  Good luck to you and your bunny!

[luinge]

I remember my parents wouldn’t even let me have fish til I was 8! Then was I was 14 I got my cat.

[Sarita]

Yes, we will definitely help you in any way that we can since you are getting the rabbit. It’s important to give your rabbit the best care possible that you can and that he certainly deserves since your mother is allowing you to get the rabbit.

[Kokaneeandkahlua]

 

Gishebawik-anong, please understand that everyone here just wants what is best for the rabbit and for the long road;No one is picking on you  I think we are mainly concerned, because all we know is what you tell us….like, we don’t personally know your mom for instance. So when you say that she doesn’t like rabbits or doesn’t want to pay, we don’t know if she is just ‘being a mom’ or if, say your rabbit was really sick, would you mom take it to the vet and pay, or not? 

We can see that you are very interested in rabbits and in properly taking care of them Don’t worry about that! It shows a lot of interest and responsibility in seeking out a site like this and asking all the questions you have asked! I think we were all surprised with how much work and money it takes to have rabbits and thats why we want to share that with you! We don’t want you to have a rabbit and then not have the time or money to look after one!! We are just being concerned for you and the rabbit 
 

It sounds like you are definitely getting a rabbit, and your sister too…So we are here for you when you have questions and concerns; And also when you want to share your funny bunny stories…Do you have a digital camera GA (I hope you don’t mind if I call you GA, your name is a little long for me to remember to spell correctly ? You could put up some pictures when you get bunny home so we can all see how cute he/she is! You might want to wait a couple days before putting pictures up since your bunny might be shy! Let us know how it goes!!

[xnovalentine]

I can obviously see a low attention span when you try to even explain or answer anything we are asking you, this is very concerning for me in regards to how much attention your going to pay to this rabbit and how long it will be until you’re bored with it. I really hope you rethink this before you get your rabbit, im really concerned for the well-being of it especially if your mother hates this rabbit so much. You do not sound like you will be able to properly take care of this rabbit and you say your on your own with it. It really is heartbreaking, but I am glad that you’re on here asking questions. I just hope you take the time to read the answers.

[BinkyBunny]

I feel like I’ve just slid down the Alice and Wonderland rabbit hole. I’m starting to think this is joke, someone just pulling our chain.

If not, it’s just sad. Now I understand why her mother is not on here,(well I figured as much) why would a child who wants a rabbit so badly give her mother more ammunition. And to make a child who may not have the ability because of age/maturity to see differently without the help of her mother, then the challenge is monumental.  She literally won’t have the ability, on her own, to have the foresight to understand everything we are trying to tell her.  All we can do now is take a deep breath and help where we can. It’s not her fault . She’s just too young and without her mother to help guide her, we are stuck. 

I see this kind of thing all the time, and this is exactly the type of case that got me started doing this whole website in the first place, tried to make it easy and fun, so that individuals can be prepared and keep their bunnies. But if someone just wants what they want, regardless, and a parent isn’t involved as they should be (at least how it sounds online), then unless a law has been broken, then all we can do is help where we can (welcome to a small taste of rescue work). and hope, pray, give off vibes, whatever, that in the long run it will all work out. But either way, you have all done an amazing job already. You all deserve a medal for your patience. And I am also so proud that BinkyBunny has such incrediblly smart and caring members.

Beka – ya know, it would be great idea to list the legal age to own a pet. (i’m going to look into that) I am almost positive it is 18 (in the US – could vary by state though),

Most responsible shelters and rescues will refuse to adopt out an animal if it is made apparant that it will not be a family pet. I remember so many times parents thought they knew it all too, and refused to listen and just said "fine we’ll go to a petstore and get our child one!" or once they realized that the laws do not allow their children to actually own a pet, they were swayed not to get a larger animals because they may understand they are liable for neglect, health issues that need to bee seen by a vet, or any other issues that may arise if an adult is not involved. But when it comes to smaller animal companions, like rabbits, guinea pigs etc., if they don’t research what goes into it, they just think no big deal and say what needs to be said in order for their child to get what they want.

[Sarita]

I’d be interested if you can find that out BinkyBunny! I know at our rescue you have to be 21 – you sign a contract too. I don’t know if you sign a contract at a pet store though or at a feed store or wherever you can go to purchase a pet. I know you have to be 18 to sign a contract though.

[Beka27]

^^^i’m not even sure listing a "legal age" would matter a bit… as long as there are petstores who sell to anyone with the cash and parents who will get the pet for a child and then abandon them to care for it themselves.  this is as much about (and maybe moreso) irresponsible parenting than irresponsible pet ownership.  and i highly doubt we’ll be able to solve this problem on our quaint little forum…

[JK]

I know the shelters around here are strict about who they adopt to but I am sure in other parts of the country or world they are not particular at all.  That’s the sad part and all will suffer because of it.

[Beka27]

i don’t think there are any kind of contracts at petstores.  it’s about the sale.  i’ve bought guinea pigs, hamsters, and mice at petstores (a few of the times i was either by myself, or my mom drove me and i paid visibly with my own money.)  i never signed anything.  i never even got a pamphlet or sheet explaining the care for the animal i was taking home.

[BinkyBunny]

You are right “legal” age wouldn’t matter bit at least not right here or right now, but I think I could list it somewhere appropriate on the site, maybe on the new page you and I have been emailing each other about. I could put a little blurb somewhere on that page, so at least parents know what they are liable for if the child isn’t taking care of the pet properly. I mean most parents will be more involved and it won’t matter, but for the parents that don’t see a pet as a biggie, they might look at it more seriously if they could see they could actually be fined or have some consquences if their “childs pet” was ever in a situation where it wasn’t taken care of properly – according the laws of their location.

[Sarita]

Well there are laws certainly for pet care which includes food, water, and shelter. And in some places spaying and neutering (even for rabbits). Also there are laws for abandonment. These laws are normally by each city. Most cities have ordinances for these things. In Texas there are state laws for animal cruelty too which usually include the food, water, shelter, etc…in most cities you should be able to look up your city ordinances on line or contact your city shelter for the ordinances which also include may include the number of animals you may own and what type are permitted in your city.

[Beka27]

from what i understood (and i will definitely check out my area’s laws) is that rabbits were not covered by cruelty laws b/c they still count as livestock, not companion animals.  is that true or am i imagining it…?

[osprey]

California considers them "poultry".  You are still required to provide food, shelter and water, but in all the neglect cases that I have been (periferally) involved with, Animal Control just confiscates the animals and no charges are pressed.  It is only the egregious abuse cases that get criminal investigations.

[luinge]

Beka, I couldn’t imagine my rabbit anything but a companion! If those are the laws they are pretty outdated.

[skunklionshow]

Osprey…I’ve been sorely mistaken all along…those things on their heads are wings not ears????

Legally, pets are considered "property".  Therefore, a contract cannot be signed by a minor.  Legally a minor is not liable for a contract.  The majority of petstores actually offer a "health contract" as a portion of their responsibility.  Any contract signed by a minor is not a legal contract.  I hope that made sense.

I’m finishing up my PhD in psych currently, I’m avoiding dissertation now as I type.  I bring that up as child development is a huge interest of mine.  I don’t think I’ve ever met a kid or teen that has ever had a pet for themselves.  We had every kind of beasty growing up and the ha ha is always it may be your kids pet, but when it comes to the actual care & cleaning, it becomes mom/dad’s pet.  I don’t think I really have an issue w/ that, as long as mom/dad realize that from the get go. 

On a similar note….teens go through a ego-centric development period.  During this time what their friends say/do is gold compared to what is said/done by family.  Everything revolves around those peer relationships.  I think everyone here is great!  You guys all helped me pull through my bunny challenges. 

[babybunsmum]

Gishebawik-anong are you still following this thread?  like some of the others, i have a really hard time understanding your situation there.  i’ve just re-read your posts & what you say seems contradictory and as if you’re really not taking any of the advice you asked for.  i could be mis-interpreting entirely, but it leaves the impression that you are very young and very determined to get a pet rabbit this week.  although it’s pretty hard to know for sure if this is your actually situation, or if you’re just bored on your holidays and wanting some attention.  i hope if you do get a rabbit that you take the advice that has been given to you here and understand that, even if it’s not what you wanted to hear, it is good advice from experienced people.

[Beka27]

very interesting skunklionshow… i had many pets of my own growing up… mice, hamsters, guinea pigs, a turtle, an iguana, a couple rather large fish tanks, and we had family cats and dogs.  while i cared for my animals myself, my parents took care of them financially.  there were periods growing up where i provided very minimal care… and other times where i focused all of my attention on them.  when i moved out, and after Stephen died, that was probably the only time i did not have some kind of pet in my immediate care since i was very young.  it wasn’t horrible not having a pet.  of course, i had a toddler so it wasn’t like i was bored by any means.  but i want Michael to grow up with pets.  maybe not tons of them, but i want him to learn how to treat animals.  he may grow up and leave home and never have another rabbit… that’s okay, he doesn’t need to be a rabbit person, just as long as he knows to respect all animals… big and small.

[Star-xX]

Thank you for understanding me. if Gishebawik-anong is to hard to remember you can call me Morningstar or Star. I have some pics but the compuyter wont work. my bunnies name is Mocha and she is a girl 2 years old and I dont’ know exactly when her birthday is but I will celebrate it on Christmas eve, lol And do you know why Mocha is pooping all over my room???? and why she grunted at me for putting her food dish in her cage?

[BinkyBunny]

Beka and Skunklion, I learned my respect for animals from my parents, and they definitely took care of everything financially too. I don’t remember ever having to pay for their food or anything. And I never felt alone in caring even for the animals that stayed in my room, (bird and lizards) My folks were always checking to make sure the tanks and cages were clean, and that they were healthy, and for the bird that he got the attention he needed. We would do the heavy stuff like tank cleaning for the lizards together or my dad did it. It just became ingrained in me that it HAD to be done. I never felt like because they did it, someone else would always take care of them, I was just always included, and part of the routine, and so though I didn’t do it all by myself, I learned and just took for granted that animals take time and energy.

[BinkyBunny]

Okay, now I really think our chains are being pulled.  But I’ll still play for now.

Gishebawik – It is territorial behavior.  Remember  we said a bunny may do this. 

Please see https://binkybunny.com/Default.aspx?tabid=54&forumid=2&postid=22218&view=topic and scroll down to my response and see #2.  Please go check that out. it should just take you a second

Regardind LUNGING when you put her food down:

There are different reasons why a bunny will lunge at your hand while you feed her: 

  Is this the "jumpy rabbit"  that you said had been abused  and/or neglected in her past?  If so, she may not associate good things with hands if she had ever been hit or teased with hands.  Also she could be seeing your hand as invading her space and taking her food.  I know you are giving her food, but she may be just be seeing it as either danger or you are getting to her food first. 

Does she actually bite or just lunge.  And does she do this at any other time so far that you’ve noticed.  I will need to know these answers before I can answer properly.

[xnovalentine]

how immensely frustrating. exactly what we said would happen…and she still did not pay any attention. i agree with you binkybunny, i think our patience is being tested. if not, i am throughly disgusted with the entire situation. she sounds like shes about 12 and there is no way i could of been responsible enough to care for a rabbit when i was around that age. i had a dog and that was hard for myself to take care of. how disappointed and angry this makes me…she probably didn’t even read half of what we had to say. This is probably whats going to happen with this rabbit — she’ll lose interest soon just as she lost interest in our advice and it will end up either dead, set free, or back into a shelter which would be the best thing for it. So sad, so sad.

[JK]

OK I said to myself I would stop responding to this frustrating thread as we are talking in circles. But I would really like to know exactly what you are feeding your bunny? Could you please answer this question?

[Deleted User]

She is feeding her bunny Timothy Hay and some pellets

[skunklionshow]

We had all sorts of beasts growing up…birds, cats, dogs, hamsters, rabbits, fish, and 5 SIBLINGS…never a reptile, my mom HATES reptiles!  I am very grateful to my animal experiences growing up.  I believe that it made me the sensitive (at times) person that I am today.  I honestly believe that the pet-person or child relationship is a very very valuable thing.  For that reason, I pushed the pet therapy program in my classrooms.  As the adult in those classrooms, I knew that medical care and day to day care may or likely fall on me, but I always attempted to put that initiative and responsibility on our kids.  Whereas empirical research has not been able to prove that animal abuse leads to human abuse or a general lack of empathy, I believe that there is a very strong link.  I was not trying to say that families shouldn’t have pets, I just think that parents need to acknowledge their own roles and responsibilities.

On a similar note…I’m sure others can relate…when you tell people about your pets and/or animal home-based zoo, do they try to pawn off other animals on you?  I was discussing my pet therapy program w/ a psychologist and she started telling me how her kids have lost interest in their guneia pig and would I take it????LOL

[Author]

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