Rabbit grieving for mate ?

Question
I have a 8 1/2 year old male netherland dwarf who lost his 3 year old mate, a
mini rex, quite suddenly 3 days ago.  Up until her death he was perfectly
normal eating and pooping.  He had his teeth fixed a month ago and is in
perfect health.  He was with her when she died and ever since has greatly
reduced him eating habits as well as pooping.  He is still interested, nibbles
begs etc.  I've started him again on critical care but will this help get his
appetite back ? He is also very anti social right now.  What else can I do to
help ? The thought of getting him another mate is hard for me to accept, plus
he is 8 1/2 ! Please help, I can't bear the thought of losing him as well.
Samantha

Answer
Dear Samantha,

I am sorry about the loss of your bunny, and especially for the grieving that your older bunny must now endure.  

At the age of 8.5, he is by no means old.  And if he is taking the loss this hard, then I really believe that the kindest thing you can do for him is to call up your local rabbit rescuer:

www.rabbit.org/chapters

and set up some "blind dates" so he can meet some spayed potential mates.  He may not choose anyone, but just the distraction of meeting other bunnies can help him through his grief.  

As you already sadly know, a younger bunny does not always outlive an older one.  So bringing him new love into his life could be a wonderful thing for him, and give him a new lease on life.  Rabbits are living well into their teens these days, with proper care and veterinary attention.  So I'd hate to think that he might have to spend nearly half his life (to come) alone.

You say that getting him another mate is hard for you to accept...but in truth, this is more about him than about you  right now.  I don't mean to sound harsh, but he has no one but you, and you cannot be there for him all the time.  He needs someone of his own kind to snuggle and love, and though no one will ever replace the mate he lost, he can still find new love the way any bereaved human or other animal can.  Please don't deprive him of that chance.  You will both be happier, and I know your lost bunny would be happy to know that the two of you are being loved by somebunny, even though she cannot be there in the flesh.

The dates and bonding must be done with care:  don't buy anyone or bring home a surprise. It is *vital* that you let *him* choose his new companion.  But it will be worth it, and I know you will all be happier in the long run.

I hope this helps.

Take care,

Dana