Adopting a Second Bunny
The biggest advantage to getting a second rabbit is emotional support for your first rabbit when you're not around. Once you have seen multiple rabbits snuggling and kissing, you will never want to have only one rabbit again. Rabbits that travel, board, or visit the vet together are less stressed than single rabbits that experience these events. Because we can't assume any two rabbits will get along with each other, strategy is used for the second rabbit adoptions. This strategy is based on the assumption that YES, there is a rabbit your rabbit will like, but we can't always predict with certainty which rabbit it will be. Because it is the nature of rabbits to like or dislike passionately, rabbit matchmaking is something of an art.
At BWF, match-making is our specialty. Below is a description of the process we use.
Tell us about your rabbit's personality, history, and habits, and communicate details about your home. If your rabbit is not yet spayed or neutered, this must happen next. Tell us what kind of rabbit you were hoping to adopt, keeping in mind that your rabbit will have a final say.
We know our rescued buns very well, which helps to ensure a good match for all.
We will set up a time for you to bring your rabbit to meet two or more rabbits who have been selected by us in consultation with you. At least two candidates are considered, because in spite of our best intentions, one rabbit may reject the other. Body language of the rabbits will be interpreted by the staff facilitating the match, and can vary from indifference to excitement.
Based on the rabbit's reactions, the adopter's preference, and the matchmaker's assessment of the match, the date can move on to bonding. Bonding is usually a period of one week with the rabbits together under supervision in neutral territory. Reports are made to the caretaker on the rabbit's progress. If negative behavior occurs, a different match in considered. We don't want either rabbit to be hurt, or stressed. We will try different combinations of rabbits until the chemistry is perfect.
The honeymoon begins when positive, trusting behavior is seen. The two bunnies can now go home. The adopter is instructed to keep the rabbits in a small, neutral, confined area, such as a spare room or hallway, for one week. BWF staff and the adopter keep in contact. If all goes well during this transition, number one bunny can go back to her/his routine, sharing everything with her/his new friend.
If you would like to hear more about adopting a second or third (or fourth, or fifth...) rabbit from BWF, please call us at 310.498.8600 or email info@bunnyworldfoundation.org