Byline: Shannon Gleason, News Writer, Best Friends Network
As animal welfare advocates, we are pleased, if not elated, when mistreated animals are rescued and placed in new homes that are safe, loving and permanent. Colorado House Rabbit Society, located in Broomfield, Colorado, goes the distance, and beyond, to provide bunnies-in-need the care, attention, and training required so that they may have a second opportunity to enjoy a forever home.
MEET FRANKIE, PHOTOGRAPHED ABOVE
Consider Frankie, a temporary resident of Colorado House Rabbit’s Society. He arrived starved, with head wounds so deep and infected that multiple surgeries were required, as well as daily, vigilant cleanings to heal the abscesses. The patient, nurturing volunteers of The Society NEVER gave up on Frankie. Their dedicated efforts restored his health and enlivened his spirit.
Next, he would be adopted and meet Max, a 10 year old, blind rabbit, grieving the loss of his long-term mate. Max’s guardians were worried. They observed that when he woke from naps, alone, he appeared confused and disoriented. Realizing that Max needed guidance and companionship, his guardians adopted Frankie. The once compromised rabbit rose to the challenge, anticipating his new buddy’s every need. The two are now inseparable, as Frankie grooms Max and lies protectively across his body while they sleep. Frankie now extends the love and care to Max that he received at the shelter, giving new meaning to the cliché shared between friends: “I’ve got your back!”
SOCIETY FOCUSES ON RESCUE AND EDUCATION
Established in 1991, Colorado House Rabbit Society maintains dual purposes: rescue and education. In 2007, 168 bunnies were placed in new homes, made possible by nearly two thousand hours of donated time, which volunteers spent on selection, pairing, education and travel. As a licensed, local chapter of the National House Rabbit Society, based in Richmond, California, Colorado’s Society receives a number of amenities, including educational support, networking and grant opportunities, national publicity and in-service training. However, the national organization does not provide Colorado’s chapter with income, so local donations are especially appreciated. As a nonprofit business comprised entirely of volunteers, those who contribute are assured that EVERY PENNY of their donation directly aids the rescue and placement of rabbits, in addition to funding programs to educate the public about their specialized needs and care.
Three satellite branches span Northern Colorado, finding homes for rabbits and answering questions about adoption and health concerns. Considered “exotics," from a medical point of view, rabbits require specialized veterinary care. The Society’s primary branch and satellites maintain lists of locally recommended veterinarians with clinical expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of rabbits.
As in Frankie's case, Colorado House Rabbit Society works to heal each rabbit physically and mentally prior to adoption. Their knowledge of rabbits is extensive, and they are adept at matching characteristics of each bunny with the most suitable prospective guardians. The Society is committed to the success of each placement and provides ongoing support, resources and guidance to resolve problems which may arise after the adoption. “Tune-Up” classes, offered free-of-charge, are available to those who adopt rabbits from a shelter, work at an animal shelter or assist veterinarians. Topics of the course include the manner in which to handle rabbits safely and comfortably, techniques for grooming and nail clipping and procedures for cleaning genital pockets. Information is provided regarding ways to routinely check ears, eyes, chin and teeth so that potential problems may be detected and treated quickly. Prospective guardians are diligently screened, well-educated by The Society and also informed of the commitment they are making. For those who adopt from Colorado's chapter but are unable to keep their rabbit, a $500 non-compliance fee is assessed if the bunny is not returned to them.
RABBITS WHO DESERVE A SECOND LOOK
Members and supporters of The Society rally to the aid of special-needs bunnies through a program titled "Rabbits Who Deserve A Second Look." For a variety of reasons, these rabbits have a difficult time finding homes; therefore, adoptive matches require the highest degree of compatibility and commitment. Older rabbits may need the exceptional devotion of those willing to look beyond the beauty of youth and appreciate these elders as they are. These bunnies have frequently spent the bulk of their lives in someone’s home and due to unfortunate and untimely circumstances, face the loneliness of shelter life in their later years. Often, they are well-mannered and dignified, truly reveling in the companionship of a devoted guardian. Other rabbits have significant health care needs and require a home in which the caretaker can routinely administer medications for conditions such as glaucoma or arthritis. These rabbits are eligible to become permanent fosters. Within this program, those who have time, space and loving care to offer are selected as suitable families, while all medical costs of the bunnies are covered by the chapter.
MEET CHRISTIE AND LEARN HOW YOU CAN HELP
Kai is a bold, beautiful, big bunny, weighing-in at thirteen pounds. Those who know her say she is mature, sophisticated, and quite a character. One moment she’ll appear relaxed, sprawling across the floor, only to enjoy a burst of energy and bound across the room, performing “bunny dances.” Prior to adoption, her Colorado House Rabbit Society name was Christie. Characterized as physically stunning with the personality of a “ham,” she was selected to model as The Society‘s “Chairbunn” of Ways and Means.
As one of their former residents, she seems to know that a little help can go a long way. Thanks to the generous time commitment of her adoptive Mom who is willing to commute, Christie travels from Colorado Springs to Broomfield for photo shoots so she can model for her web page, titled “How You Can Help." The page illustrates new items The Society can recycle to generate income and announces the fundraising link Giveline. Though Christie’s description as a model is written “tongue-in-cheek,” all involved in her photo shoots note her pride and enjoyment as she investigates the props and poses for the camera. Christie’s adoptive sister Lily, at a third the weight but a beauty in her own right, attends the shoots, too, and joins in the fun. However, there is no doubt who owns the stage.
Please visit Christie today and learn of the many way you can help Colorado House Rabbit Society as they continue saving the lives of rabbits and educating people. She looks forward to introducing herself at
http://www.coloradohrs.com/waysandmeans.aspTax deductible donations may be mailed to Colorado House Rabbit Society, P.O. Box 238, Broomfield, Colorado, and questions can be answered by calling (303) 469-3240.
Photo of FRANKIE courtesy of Colorado House Rabbit Society.