Amy's Bunny Barn
Home based - Visits by appointment only Sooke, BC, Canada

Freezing frenzy Such a patient momma

- Let’s talk teeth. Teeth are one of the most important things to take care of on a rabbit. Without proper care, rabbit’s teeth can become abscessed, infected, overgrown, and can cause great pain or death for your little companion. Rabbit teeth are constantly growing. The growth rate is approximately 2mm every week. In order to file down the teeth as they grow to keep them at a safe size, a rabbit relies on a healthy diet to do so. ... Hay is the number one way to ensure your rabbit has good teeth health! Unlimited access to fresh and crunchy hay is how a rabbit maintains their teeth (and digestive system too). Providing hay (and replenishing it throughout the day) in a litter box either loose or hung above in a hay manger gives the rabbit perfect access to the hay 24/7. Their favourite time to eat is when they poop! Hay filled toys are also a great way to encourage hay eating and provide enrichment. You will often find that rabbits will get chewy. This is the behaviour they exhibit when they are seeking things to wear their teeth down (other reasons can be behaviour, stress etc but that’s another post). When your rabbit gets chewy, they can be rather destructive. Carpets, baseboards, furniture etc. can be the victim of rabbit bites. Redirecting to rabbit safe items is the best way to curb this. Rabbit safe tree branches and twigs, dye free cardboard, high quality pellets (in small portions) are all great ways to encourage safe chewing behaviours. And please note- rabbits don’t have the ability to do things spitefully (for the most part), so if they do chew something unwanted, give them grace that they are just doing what nature intended them to do. Keeping an eye on your rabbit’s teeth is important to make note of any changes. Teeth should meet up and NEVER protrude from the mouth. If you ever notice your rabbit is 1) losing weight 2) displaying signs of pain 3) won’t let you touch their mouth or face 4) teeth are the incorrect size, please see your vet immediately. Of course there are other signs too so always seek advice from your vet first. (the last photo is the kind of neglect we so greatly wish to avoid)

My 4 other babies, I need to post more about them. Panda bun and Koala Betty Bun and Papaya

*** volunteer found*** Thank you Mike Ginger is off for her eye removal surgery, wish her luck she needs it. We are in need of a volunteer to pick her up this evening just before 5 pm from Helmcken vet and bring her out to Sooke if possible. I am off work at 4: 45 and will not make it to the vet before they close at 5pm but can meet someone part way.

Goodbye little Olive You were so very loved by many during the short time you were in care. We are all so devastated and we are sad your family to be never got to welcome you home. We are sorry that you were dumped and left outside in the freezing cold, no food, no water, scared and alone. ... We are so grateful to the people who found you took you to safety and contacted us to care for you during your last couple weeks. Olive was a special girl, a fighter and she was a spunky little bun to the end. Last night she started having seizures and passed away with Arielle, Jenn and myself there by her side. I have never witnessed a bunny having seizures and I hope I never have to see it again. Her last breath will be a sad moment that is engraved into my memory and my heart. Telling your family who was going to adopt you was so painful. They met you briefly and it was love at first sight. RIP baby girl

Meet adoptable Forest. Forest is a delightful, independent fellow always looking for adventure, keeping himself busy rearranging his home area, or lounging and stretching out relaxing. Forest loves to eat. He is always willing and able to munch on hay, his pellets, and especially his daily fruits and vegetables. He always eagerly accepts treats offered to him, or sprinkled in his ball pit. He loves to dig through the ball pit, and it is hilarious to watch him! It is sur...e to put a smile on your face! Forest is particular about his bunny friends, so if you are wanting to pair him up I suggest letting Amy work her magic! As he is independent, he may also do well as an ‘only bunny’ provided he has other animal pals and a lot of interaction time with his people family. Forest can be skittish and startles easily until he gets to know you. Once a trusting relationship has developed he calms right down and can be petted and handled quite easily. Forest is really good at communicating and if he isn’t happy about something he is not shy to turn away from you to show his disapproval or thump loudly. Forest has so much personality! He is a true joy to interact with. Forest is a true beauty. He is soft, silky, shiny and is a fantastic example of how lovely black bunnies can be! He is sweet, gentle and loving with a sparkling personality and a cheeky nature that is truly adorable. You will fall in love with him, I know that I definitely did!