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moving indoor rabbit outdoors temperarily

22 9:51:29

Question
Hi Pam,
My husband and I have had our rabbit, Digger, for 12 years.  He's been inside ever since we brought him home.  He love him dearly but my husband has recently developed very bad allergies to his fur when he goes through his shedding stages.  We would prefer not to have to find another home for him, and we WILL NOT put him down.  I was wondering what the affects would be if he was moved outside during the shedding times.  We live in South Carolina, near Charleston, our concers are the extreme heat, etc.  He is at this time going through a shedding stage.  I thank you for any advice or direction that you can provide us.  Thank you, Jackie

Answer
Well it is dangerous to keep any bunny outdoors because of predators but if you have a secure building like a garage or shed that is probably the best option.  

To help with shedding if you can wet your hands and rub against the fur this will help remove the loose hair.  I shave mine but I have angoras and yours has probably never been shaved and  you don't want to stress him.

You can freeze water bottles and give him a fresh frozen water bottle a few times a day to keep him cool.  

At this point it comes down to you trying to find a home for a 12 year old rabbit or having your husband die from anaphylactic shock.  As horrible as it is and many people may not agree I think your best option is to put him in a shed or garage until his shedding is finished.  As much as I love and promote indoor bunnies, I tend to think humans shouldn't be meant to suffer because of them.

Pam