Pick Up Question

[Sage Cat]

So, on Thursday, I have to take my Buns to the Vet for thier New Bunny Check Up.

This means I have to pick them up and get them in the carrier.

Not such a big deal – except – Confessionn – I have only had them a few days and I have not picked them up yet.

I know you should practice this every day and Say “Pick Up” right before you actually pick them up so they get use to it. But, I have only had them a few days! I don’t want to scare them. I want to give them a chance get ues to me.

J. and I have been spending a lot of time on the floor with them. In the evening and morning they will comeout and over to investigate us.  Durring the day they don’t really want to come out of thier Pen, even though the door is open. And we have been able to give the nice little head and ear rubs.

So they are not totaly scardey buns. But, I think maybe I am. A little scared of freaking them out anf getting them mad or upset.

What do you think? Do I bribe them with a little banana to get them to come over to me – and then do  the dirty deed? I keep reading it is a major NO, No to reach in to the Pen and pick them up. 

A little advice would be very helpful.

Sage Cat

 

[MarkBun]

It is best to pick them up outside of their homes as the homes are ‘their’ territory and they should feel safe in it. However, sometimes when they know you want to pick them up, they run into their homes so you can’t get them. I would say try to induce them to come out of their pens with some treat and then pick them up. If that doesn’t work, then you’ll have to go into the pen. They may get upset with you but it will last a VERY short time.

[ConnBunnies]

I have to admit that I am not completely comfortable with picking up either of our two bunnies. Luckily my husband can simply scoop them up with ease. When I do make an attempt I draw them out with a treat – a piece of banana is always a motivator! Once we are done with the move we always tell them what good bunnies they are and offer another piece of their favorite treat. We are also getting them used to being on our laps by offering preferred foods while seated with them. It makes it easier to get a good hold on them before lifting.

[JK]

I was scared to death to pick up Edson when I first got him. BUT you just have to do it and pick them up firmly. They squirm and wiggle at first so you really have to have a good firm grip. Now it’s a piece of cake but I know what you mean because I was really afraid at first. Good luck!!!

[JK]

Oh and my first time at the vet with Edson?  He leaped into my arms when they put him down on the table!  I was so not expecting that! Get ready for that.  That just melted my heart!

[Hedi]

Hi Sage Cat-

Here is my suggestion. I volunteer with a local shelter and when I started I was so scared of picking up the buns because I rarely picked up my own. But I have found that if you put a hand down over their shoulder blades and apply a little pressure it will usually stop the bun in their tracks and kinda put them into submission and allow you to pick them up.

I havent had a time that this hasnt worked. Sounds weird but just try it.

[Sage Cat]

Hedi – thank you for the suggestion. I also read that someplace. Wouldn’t you know it worked like a charm!

I got Winston in the carrier – no problem. I picked up Kay and put her in the carrier. Of course, Winston took the opportunity to escape! I did manage to get him back in.

The vet said they are both very healthy – Yea!

J and I either petted the buns them or made sure they could smell our hands while we were at the vet. It seemed to help. Although they were a little grumpy when we get home.

All is well now.

[Hedi]

Yeah! Im glad it worked. I have had success picking up even the worst buns using that method. Even my husband does it now if he needs to pick up a bun.

[Scarlet_Rose]

Sage_Cat, are you going to be attending a Bunny Tune-Up class? They’ll show you how to do this properly as well. Place your hand on the shoulder blades, spread your fingers so one thumb is on the one side of the rabbit, your index finger is following the spine and your three smaller fingers are on the other side with gentle but firm pressure. This will secure them then place your other hand on the underside of their rump for support & lift.

[kimberleyanddarren]

just put the carrier on the ground and put abit of something in there that the bunny likes and once in shut the door

[Sage Cat]

Scarlet Rose – I’m going to bunny Tune Up Class on March 22nd.

Wahoo!

[Scarlet_Rose]

Cool Sage Cat!! You’ll laugh when they bring out the stuffed animal dogs with the tails re-pinned more anatomically correct where a rabbit has them. You use them to practice safe holding. : ) You’re going to have a great time!

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