I was diagnosed with M.E., Reynolds disease & depression and I also have stomach problems.
When I joined Fairly Beloved Rabbit Care as a volunteer my goal was to help animals, also thinking it might help me build my confidence up and meet new people and go outside as I have anxiety about meeting new people in case they judge me.
I joined the Fairly Beloved Rabbit Care team a year and a half ago and since then I have had 29 rabbits. From cute and patient ones to the ones that love to bite. But spending time with them, helping them and getting them rehomed was the best feeling I have ever had.
I fell in love with Posh and Becks, one of my first placements. They were sweet, kind and loving and it always takes time to let them gain your trust but after a while it feels amazing, like you have achieved the most wonderful goal in life. At the time I didn’t think I was ready to have my own rabbits and they got rehomed. They are now in their new home, and they’re happy.
I’ve had my ups and I’ve had my downs. My first proper experience was when I had the 4 Composers. Two sadly died whilst they were with me. Yes it was hard but it’s one of those things you have to learn to deal with. The other two were very poorly too. I took them to the vets and they did say they might pass away as well. I kept them in the house with plenty of hay, they wouldn’t eat though so me and my mum hand fed them every few hours and eventually after a week they started to become better and better. The achievement was amazing especially for my first time dealing with sick rabbits. They recovered fully and they now have a new home as well!
Dealing with rabbits isn’t always easy but if you take your time and know this is what you really want to do anyone can do it. Myself, my mum and dad have learnt a lot over the last year. I have gained some confidence and I do go outside a lot more to clean, feed and water them and make sure they’re warm. They also need plenty of exercise and plenty of nose rubs and cuddles.
At first I didn’t realise that rabbits were best bonded with another rabbit and now every time I see bonded rabbits I think that’s the way every rabbit should be for company and cuddles, and also because if a single rabbits on its own they would be pretty bored. It’s just like us humans – we all need someone to love.
I recently adopted my first rabbit Hey Diddle Diddle (now called Biscuit) and hopefully he will be bonded with my other rabbit Fluffy. You Never know I might get another one to make it into a trio 😉
The main things I have learned over the year is rabbits are not just to buy for the kids for Christmas, as its not them that are responsible for them! Parents must take full responsibility for the rabbits. You cant just give up on them. I’ve also learned that every year they should get there jags and when they come to you for a forever home make sure they’re neutered. Neutering females especially as it reduced the chance of cancer. It also helps their temperament. They need at least 90% of hay.
I have learnt a lot and if you spend time with them they’re not boring, especially if you care for them right! My rabbits love doing tricks; standing up for treats and you can also train the ones that are temperamental so they get used to essential handling and socialisation.
Anyway I just want to say thank you to every volunteer within the team for making me feel welcome.
If you are interested in joining the team, have a look at our volunteer opportunities at http://www.fairlybelovedrabbitcare.org/volunteer.