netherland dwarf bonded pair questions

Question
Hi Dr. Krempels,  

I just wanted to know how long it takes for one bunny to bond with another?
Recently we got a grey Netherland Dwarf and a few days later bought another
caramel-colored one. The first one had pinkeye and so we exchanged it for
another which died of diarrhea (was gasping, twitching, and such before it
died-- not sure what it died of-- perhaps an abrupt diet change). The bunnies
had been playing with each other for three days. I don't wish for our first
bunny to get depressed, so was just wondering when it might be appropriate
to introduce another playmate for it.

I am in China right now and the healthcare for animals is virtually
nonexistent-- I have been feeding it greens mixed with carrots and apples on
a daily basis, do you recommend anything else (that isn't hay or pellets, since
those are not easily accessible here?)

Thanks so much for your help!  

Best,
Crystal

Answer
Dear Crystal,

Start by introducing the bunnies in a neutral territory, and then use the bonding tips here to make sure everything goes smoothly:

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

As for diet, you can read my recommendations here:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/diet.html

If you can't get hay, then grass from a clean, known source that's parasite and pesticide free would be a good substitute.  A tablespoon or two of whole oats per day--once they are adults, and spread out throughout the day--can be used to supplement for calories, if necessary.  Avoid too much sugar and starch, which means using carrots and apples only in small quantities.

I hope that helps.

Dana