dorm bunny

Question
Hi. I'm going to colleg in Sept. and have been approved to have a small pet in my room. I've owned every small animal there is, except a rabbit. I was wondering how well a dwarf trabbit would do in that situation. I was planning on adopting an older one so at least i would know what i was getting and it would have some training. Thnaks so much!!

Answer
Dear Aimee,

A rabbit would do well in a dorm room, but you need to be aware that some pretty serious bunny-proofing will be needed.  Rabbits are playful and curious, and they are natural diggers.  That means they get into everything and they *chew*!  All electrical, telephone, and computer cords (including the ones on your desk:  dwarf rabbits are usually excellent jumpers and climbers!) will need to be protected not only for your safety's but for bunny's.

Rabbits have pretty complex needs and dietary requirements.  They are not--as some breeders and pet store owners will tell you--a "low maintenance" pet.  They require as much care and attention as a dog or cat, or they may become withdrawn, willful, or even destructive.

To do a bit more research on rabbits before you make the leap (har har), please visit the House Rabbit Society at www.rabbit.org/

There's more information than you can imagine on every aspect of living with a rabbit, from litterbox training to spay/neuter to veterinary care, to diet.  You're smart to do your homework before making a ten year commitment to a bunny.  They are wonderful companions, and if you read up and think a bunny is the right pal for you, then please never hesitate to write to me with any questions you might have.

For more information on "your first bunny," also see:

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

Hope that helps!

Dana