Bunny Move and Travel

Question
We are moving into a new place and leaving our bunny with a sitter at the same
time. She has never been without us, and never lived anywhere, or traveled at
all. We are very worried as she is somewhat nervous and dependent on my
husband and I. Also, in a few months, we have to move across country and are
very worried about the stress on her. Any tips?

Answer
Dear Kay,

If it's possible for your bunny to travel with you, that might actually be the least stressful option for all concerned.  Rabbits are good travelers, but if she's the nervous type you can ask your trusted rabbit vet for a supply of Valium. This can be given in small doses for the duration of the travel.  

If you decide to leave bun with the sitter, make sure bunny and sitter get to know each other well before you leave, so that bunny won't feel as if she's been abandoned.  If she's with a known friend who knows her likes, dislikes, and habits, then your absence will be easier for her.  Tell the sitter to be alert for signs of stress-induced ileus:

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

and have the number of a good vet handy, along with your credit card, in case of emergencies:

www.rabbit.org/vets

I hope that helps.

Dana