[Ag-eq] Rabbits 101

[Jewel]

When I lived in Belfast Christchurch, I kept rabbits for years.  I made pets of them, but they were 
money in the pocket as well.  I had Rex rabbits which I reared for their pelts, and NZ Whites for 
the rabbit meat market, which, I think, has now died.
I have always wanted giants, Continental, I think, are even larger than the Flemish, but as I have 
never seen C giants on Trademe, but there are a number of FG breeders FG it was.
The day I got them, I had them both vaccinated against rabbit hemmhoragic disease and will have Paul 
desexed when he is 6 months old.  I will, in time get a second one to replace Peter whom, I doubt, I 
will ever see again.
I tether Paul out on the grass if the weather is conducive, but he is shut away at night.
I do bring him into the house, but have to be very careful that the dog is well secured.  Maybe, 
Guideon's  attitude is only one of wanting to be a good buddy, but, somehow, I ha'e ma doots about 
that!

        Jewel


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From: <nfoster at extremezone.com>
Sent: Friday, January 24, 2014 2:05 PM
To: "Agricultural and Equestrean Division List" <ag-eq at nfbnet.org>
Subject: Re: [Ag-eq] Rabbits 101

Jewel:

I kept rabbits as pets for years.  They were a lot of fun and quite easy to care
for.

The last 2 I had were dwarfs and were under 4 pounds.  They had a large indoor
hutch with 3 levels and an outdoor enclosed area.  I also kept a cage for them
at my parents, so they could go with me when I visited.  I transported them in
a cat carrier.  They were affectionate and liked sitting on my lap like a cat.
I kept one of my rabbits when I lived in an apartment.  She had an indoor hutch
and did get some free time in the house.  I also could put a harness and leash
on her so she could explore the lawn at our complex.

Their poop makes really good fertilizer.  If you are into fiber arts the angora
rabbits have great hair.

I've often thought that rabbits might be good pets for me when I'm a little old
lady!

It's best if you have the males nuetered or they will try to mark things.  They
also need things to chew on; their teeth grow kind of like our nails, so need
to be worn down.  I also used to get their nails clipped by my vet.  They like
most vegetables, grass, hay and the pellets.  Mine loved apples for treats.

I think you will have a lot of fun with your rabbit.  They can get territorial,
so introducing new rabbits can be tricky.

Please keep us posted.

Nella