There are a number of different ways to carry out rabbit "bondings" and though the Rescue favours one particular method we do at times, as required, use them all to some degree. At the end of the day, they all pretty much come down to sticking two rabbits who don't know each other in close proximity, in a place neither is familiar with, and seeing if they like each other. Sound simple? Enter one Mr Whisky T. Bunny, esquire.
Whisky has issues. A whole lot of issues. What these issues leave us with is a very limited number of ways we can introduce him to other rabbits without putting him at risk of serious injury, illness or death.
So Monday at the Rescue, after Caroline had diligently cleaned out and disinfected one of the paved runs, as far from as many of the rest of the residents as possible, we got him speed dating. We took all of the available females and tried them with Whisky one after the other, then in groups, and even all together, in a small space. The reactions were many and varied, including mild aggression, indifference and rejection. The aim was to identify somebun he had a connection with that might offer us a controlled low-risk bond, but let's just say I ended up bringing him home unloved by all.
The whole experience was a bundle of anxiety for both of us. I know he will be happier once we find him another bunny friend he loves, but the journey to that point is a far from simple one. By the time we got home, we both needed a very big drink. Mine wasn't water.
there's someone for everyone, they say, so I'm sure a lovely lady bunny will turn up for dear Whisky. One day.
ReplyDeleteDon't worry just know that we love to bits and you'll have a new friend in time
ReplyDeleteJust like people, there are some rabbits who are content to be alone, and will resist all attempts to be paired off. It's possible Whisky might be one of those buns. If it's meant to be, it'll happen--otherwise, if it ain't broke, don't fix it.
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