Should be get him another friend

Question
Hi Dana

My daughter had two giant house rabbits, they were a bonded pair, they were only 18 months old.  Today we found Dixie dead in her run, she had lost a little bit of weight, but was eating and drinking well and seemed fine, so no idea what caused it, what is causing us concern is Dillion has been calling for her and my daughter is so upset over it all, Dillion calling for his friend is upsetting her even more.  Should we get Dillion another friend or is it likely to be really difficult to introduce another rabbit, it took him a while to accept Dixie and they were both young rabbits 8 weeks old.

When he goes into his run, he is looking for Dixie and calling all the time.

Any advice, I would be very grateful.

Kind regards
Sara


Answer
Dear Sara,

This is so terribly sad.  I am sorry for your loss, but even more sorry for poor Dillon.  At least he got to see her body, and will eventually come to terms with this.  But yes...he needs another friend.

DO NOT, however, just go buy one and bring home a "surprise."  The most likely result will be bloodshed.  Rabbit introductions and bonding must be done with care, and I'd recommend you do this with the help of your local rabbit rescuer, who can help you introduce Dillon to some eligible "bachelorettes" and see who gets on best with whom.  You can contact the Rabbit Welfare Association here:

http://www.rabbitwelfare.co.uk/

and they can put you in touch with a local rescuer with adoptable bunnies.  

For bonding tips and tricks, please see:

http://search.atomz.com/search/?sp-a=00062824-sp00000000&sp-q=bonding

I hope this helps, and that Dillon will be saved from his grief very soon.

Take care,

Dana