House Rabbit Connection

17/08/2024

HRC NEEDS FOSTER HOMES!

HRC is in a foster home crunch--please tell your friends, family, and co-workers about this need. Many hands make light work!
Knowing that you have saved the life of your foster rabbit is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. We cannot help rabbits in need of homes without the support of foster homes. If you live in the Springfield, MA/Hartford, CT area, please help HRC by fostering a rabbit or pair!

HRC provides support to its foster homes, as well as supplying equipment to house the rabbit, hay, and litter pellets. We are always available for our foster parents who have questions or need assistance.

Please call or email if you have any questions. Contact [email protected] or (413) 439-7472 (7HRC).

11/07/2024

We're thrilled to announce that HRC has been chosen as the Stop & Shop Community Bag Program Nonprofit Partner for August 2024 at the Stop & Shop at 1277 Liberty Street, Springfield MA. If you buy a $2.50 reusable Community Bag at that location in August, House Rabbit Connection will receive a $1 donation for each bag purchased.

07/07/2024

ADOPTED! Gizmo was adopted earlier this week--congratulations to Gizmo on finding his forever home!

ADOPTED! Gizmo was adopted on June 30, 2024. He has a new human named Trevor and a new bondmate named Momo. We are so happy for all three of them--congratulations!

Gizmo, a 7-year-old neutered male Lionhead, is soft, silly, sassy, and sometimes shy. He enjoys being petted, running around, hiding under things and popping out. He’s progressing in litter box training and has a healthy appetite. He’s frightened by loud noises and doesn’t like being picked up. Gets along well with kids and will fall asleep from pets in the silliest positions. He does require regular grooming and trimming to maintain his fluffy fur.

02/07/2024

It's that time of year again! We've been getting lots of calls about people finding wild baby rabbits in their yards. The only people legally qualified to care for wild rabbits in MA & CT are wildlife rehabilitators. In most cases, the best action is to leave the babies alone; Mama only comes to the nest twice a day to feed them. A good way to determine if the mother is still caring for the babies is to loosely place colored yarn or cotton string in a # pattern over the nest--if Mom is still caring for them, the yarn/string will have been disturbed within 12 hours. If you have an injured wild rabbit or if you have determined that a nest of babies is abandoned, please contact a wildlife rehabilitator.

To find a wildlife rehabilitator in MA, go to: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/find-a-wildlife-rehabilitator

To find a wildlife rehabilitator in CT, go to: https://portal.ct.gov/deep/wildlife/rehabilitator/animals-in-distress/small-mammals-in-distress

Send a message to learn more

28/06/2024

POTENTIAL ADOPTERS: We have been getting several calls from people trying to find our location to see our rabbits or adopt from us. We do not have a physical location; our address listing is required by Google. We work with foster homes, so you must start the adoption process with us by phone or email and then we can set up bunny dates or meet-and-greets for you. If you are interested in our rabbits, please call us at (413)439-7472 or email [email protected] and one of our volunteers can get things started for you.

Send a message to learn more

06/04/2024

We are at Fleet Feet on Bliss Rd in Longmeadow, MA from 1-3 pm. Former HRC bun Rudy is our spokesbun today. Stop by and say hi, hope to see you here!

05/04/2024

Just a reminder that HRC will be at Fleet Feet in Longmeadow, MA for an Education event this Saturday, April 8th from 1-3 pm. We'll be happy to answer your questions about rabbits and rabbit care, and discuss our adoption process as well. Hope to see you there!

Send a message to learn more

31/03/2024

AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION THROUGH HRC:
Belle and Snow White are an endlessly entertaining 1 1/2-year-old duo. These sweet companions have stuck together through hard times and their bond is truly heartwarming to watch. They love to explore the house together, with Belle as their leader—zoomies, binkies, and head nudges galore! They enjoy being around people, getting some pets, and climbing on your lap for a treat. Both buns have stolen the hearts of their foster parents, and their sweetness never fails to lift our spirits.

Snow White (REW spayed female) is a curious and gentle lovebug who loves cuddling with Belle, giving hand kisses, and following Belle on all her adventures. Belle (harlequin spayed female) is an energetic adventurer whose beauty and bravery are sure to win your heart. Both buns have pretty good litter habits and are happy to eat a wide variety of fruits and veggies. They do best in their x-pen when their foster parents are away, and then enjoy supervised exploration around the house. If you are looking for social, adventurous, and kind bunnies to brighten up your everyday life, look no further than this fluffy pair.

If you are interested in adopting Belle and Snow White, please call HRC at (413) 439-7472 or email [email protected].

19/03/2024

ADOPTED! Gizmo was adopted on June 30, 2024. He has a new human named Trevor and a new bondmate named Momo. We are so happy for all three of them--congratulations!

Gizmo, a 7-year-old neutered male Lionhead, is soft, silly, sassy, and sometimes shy. He enjoys being petted, running around, hiding under things and popping out. He’s progressing in litter box training and has a healthy appetite. He’s frightened by loud noises and doesn’t like being picked up. Gets along well with kids and will fall asleep from pets in the silliest positions. He does require regular grooming and trimming to maintain his fluffy fur.

14/03/2024

ADOPTED! We are absolutely behind in announcing this, but Beatrix has found her forever home!

ADOPTED! Beatrix was adopted at the end of February, 2024. Her new mom is a longtime HRC member and adopted. Congratulations to Beatrix and her new family!

Beatrix is a spayed female rabbit, tan with an adorable dark brown “mask” across her mouth. Born on October 6, 2022, she came to HRC via the CT Humane Society in late December 2022 as part of a large owner surrender case. She was spayed in March 2023 and has been fully vaccinated for RHDV2 and microchipped.
Beatrix is a sweet little girl who loves human affection and passing by her always elicits a bow to plead for head rubs. She is easygoing and will sit in your lap for a snuggle but is also curious and loves to explore. She seems intrigued by other rabbits so may be a candidate for bonding, and she is very comfortable around dogs. She has impeccable litter box habits, loves her daily greens, and is won over easily with treats.

13/03/2024

Excellent article from the New York Times about rabbits and rabbit care!

Rabbits are adorable and intelligent pets, but they’re also high-maintenance. Here’s how to properly raise them.

13/03/2024

ALERT ALERT ALERT ALERT ALERT ALERT ALERT ALERT ALERT ALERT ALERT ALERT ALERT ALERT

Write your representative on the
Environment Committee even if you sent in your testimony for the March 8, 2024 Public Hearing

HELP STOP THE SLAUGHTER OF THOUSANDS OF RABBITS

VOTE POSSIBLE THIS FRIDAY MARCH 15, 2024!!!

SB-196, a bill to allow the processing of thousands of rabbits for food consumption.
This proposal will bring factory-like farming of rabbits to CT under the guise of promoting farming in the state.
Please write the Environment Committee now and tell them to
VOTE NO on SB-196 coming up!
1. Rabbits are the third most common household pet after dogs and cats.
2. In the last several years we have seen a rise in laws protecting the welfare of bunnies. Several states and many cities have added rabbits to their existing bills to prevent pet stores from sourcing their pets from not only puppy and kitty mills but also rabbit mills. NY recently passed a state-wide ban on commercially bred cats, dogs, and rabbits.
3. The USDA does not include rabbits in its definition of livestock; therefore, they are not protected by their laws and regulations. Because the Humane Methods of Slaughter act does not apply to rabbits, there are no standards that require rabbits to be rendered unconscious prior to their slaughter. This bill would result in thousands of these innocent creatures being subjected to some of the worst forms of cruelty of all farmed animals. The reality of modern rabbit farming is barbaric and deplorable.
4. Due to public pressure, Petco and PetSmart stopped selling pet rabbits. They now only display rescue rabbits for adoption – the same treatment they give to dogs and cats.
5. Whole Foods and other specialty stores stopped selling rabbit meat after concluding there was no market for sales.
6. The multi-billion-dollar cosmetic industry has been moving away from using rabbits and other animals in their testing programs due to consumer pressure.
While the rest of the country has recognized and elevated rabbits as pets, CT is taking a step backward in proposing this initiative.
Rabbits are beloved companion animals in Connecticut and most state residents would be aghast to think that their elected officials would facilitate the slaughter of these lovely animals.
The Environment Committee needs to hear your voice! Please Take Action today by clicking the button below to send a message to your legislator on the Environment Committee (see attached with names, email addresses, and Districts for the members of the Committee) https://www.cga.ct.gov/env/

Speak Up for Animals!

Dear (Elected Official)
As your constituent, I want you to know that I OPPOSE SB-196, a bill to allow the processing of thousands of rabbits for food consumption here in Connecticut.
Rabbits are the third most common household pet after dogs and cats. In the last several years we have seen a rise in laws protecting the welfare of bunnies. Several states and many cities have added rabbits to their existing bills to prevent pet stores from sourcing their pets from not only puppy and kitty mills but also rabbit mills. NY recently passed a state-wide ban on commercially bred cats, dogs, and rabbits.

The USDA does not include rabbits in its definition of livestock; therefore, they are not protected by their laws and regulations. Because the Humane Methods of Slaughter act does not apply to rabbits, there are no standards that require rabbits to be rendered unconscious prior to their slaughter. This bill would result in thousands of these innocent creatures being subjected to some of the worst forms of cruelty of all farmed animals. The reality of modern rabbit farming is barbaric and deplorable.

Due to public pressure, Petco and PetSmart stopped selling pet rabbits. They now only display rescue rabbits for adoption – the same treatment they give to dogs and cats. Whole Foods and other specialty stores stopped selling rabbit meat after concluding there was no market for sales. Even the multi-billion-dollar cosmetic industry has been moving away from using rabbits and other animals in their testing programs due to consumer pressure.

While the rest of the country has recognized and elevated rabbits as pets, CT is taking a step backward in proposing this initiative!
I ask you to OPPOSE SB-196 as it comes before the committee.
Thank you,
(Senders Name & Address / Auto Fill)

The Connecticut General Assembly 2023 Regular Session convenes January 4th and adjourns June 7th

10/03/2024

AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION THROUGH HRC:

Sisters Pumpkin (rust-colored) and Nutmeg (beige) are spayed female Lionhead-mix rabbits. They are very curious rabbits and a joy to watch for any home. These adorable sisters are very gentle and friendly. They have healthy appetites and good litterbox habits. They are shy with other rabbits but get along well. These sisters have been waiting for their forever home, and Pumpkin and Nutmeg would make a great addition to your family.

If you are interested in adopting Pumpkin and Nutmeg, please call HRC at (413) 439-7472 or email [email protected].

06/03/2024

HRC members and supporters who are Connecticut residents. . . domestic rabbits need you NOW! They are not "fryers" or "roasters" or "stewing rabbits". Let's not allow slaughter to be legalized in our state!

Please submit your written opposition or testify on:

SB-196 AN ACT CONCERNING THE HARVESTING OF RABBITS FOR THE LOCAL FOOD SUPPLY
PUBLIC HEARING 3.8.24
To provide authority for the inspection and processing of rabbits in the state for the purpose of supplying local restaurants and consumers.

OPPOSE!

This proposal will bring factory-like farming of rabbits to CT under the guise of promoting farming in the state.
1. Rabbits are the third most common household pet after dogs and cats.
2. In the last several years we have seen a rise in laws protecting the welfare of bunnies. Several states and many cities have added rabbits to their existing bills to prevent pet stores from sourcing their pets from not only puppy and kitty mills but also rabbit mills. NY recently passed a state-wide ban on commercially bred cats, dogs, and rabbits.
3. The demand from the public for more plant-based foods and products continues to increase. Many restaurants now carry a variety of plant-based food.
4. Due to public pressure, Petco and PetSmart stopped selling pet rabbits. They now only display rescue rabbits for adoption – the same treatment they give to dogs and cats.
5. Whole Foods and other specialty stores stopped selling rabbit meat after concluding there was no market for sales.
6. The multi-billion-dollar cosmetic industry has been moving away from using rabbits and other animals in their testing programs due to consumer pressure.
While much of the rest of the country has recognized and elevated rabbits as pets, Connecticut is taking a step backward in proposing this initiative.

Please write to the Environment Committee now (before 3/8) and tell them you oppose SB-196.
You can submit written testimony online at https://www.cga.ct.gov/aspx/CGATestimonySub/CGAtestimonysubmission.aspx (select Hearing Date 3/8/24 and then select Bill Number SB00196)

For information on how to testify on a bill, go to https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/Content/YourVoice.asp.
Thank you for speaking up for the rabbits!

19/02/2024

HRC has an urgent need for help at this time!
We've taken in several rabbits from a cruelty case, and two recently gave birth!
Please consider taking in a foster bunny for HRC, and tell your friends, family, and co-workers about this need.
Just knowing that you have saved the life of your foster rabbit is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself.
HRC provides unlimited support to its foster homes, as well as supplying equipment to house the rabbit, hay, and litter pellets. We are always available for our foster parents who may have questions or need assistance.
If you think you can serve as a foster parent or would like more information, please contact Joanne at [email protected].
Please call or email to ask questions if you have any. Contact [email protected] or (413) 439-7472 (7HRC). We hope to hear from you!

09/02/2024

ADOPTED! Beatrix was adopted at the end of February, 2024. Her new mom is a longtime HRC member and adopted. Congratulations to Beatrix and her new family!

Beatrix is a spayed female rabbit, tan with an adorable dark brown “mask” across her mouth. Born on October 6, 2022, she came to HRC via the CT Humane Society in late December 2022 as part of a large owner surrender case. She was spayed in March 2023 and has been fully vaccinated for RHDV2 and microchipped.
Beatrix is a sweet little girl who loves human affection and passing by her always elicits a bow to plead for head rubs. She is easygoing and will sit in your lap for a snuggle but is also curious and loves to explore. She seems intrigued by other rabbits so may be a candidate for bonding, and she is very comfortable around dogs. She has impeccable litter box habits, loves her daily greens, and is won over easily with treats.

08/02/2024

Meet Junior Mint, who is available for adoption through HRC.

AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION THROUGH HRC:
Junior Mint is a 3-year-old spayed Mini Rex/English Spot mix bunny looking for her forever home! She is an extremely busy girl, with a full daily calendar of events…things like self-grooming and tidying the litterbox, racing through cardboard tunnels (chewing them along the way), organizing and munching on hay-stuffed toilet paper rolls, snack-time all the time, zoomies at dinner time, listening to classical and mellow cello playlists on Spotify, escape artistry, grooming my stuffed bun friends, loving my fresh hay and water, and looking gorgeous for the camera! Junior Mint needs a home with a lot of space to run around and explore, with no children or other rabbits. She does like cats, however, so perhaps a home with a cat friend or two would be best.

If you are interested in adopting Junior Mint, please contact HRC at (413) 439-7472 or email [email protected].

13/01/2024

ADOPTED! KitKat & Twix were adopted today. Congratulations to this sweet pair and their new family!

ADOPTED! KitKat & Twix were adopted on January 13, 2024. Congratulations to this sweet pair and their new family!

The best kind of sweets! Meet KitKat and Twix; KitKat is a 5-lb spayed female Dwarf mix, and Twix is a 4-lb spayed female Mini Lop. They are about two years old.
These two cuties came to us via Animal Control as a result of a large animal cruelty/neglect case in CT involving 17 rabbits and one dog. Kit Kat and Twix were found huddling together so we kept them as a pair. We don’t believe they are siblings.
Both are great hay eaters, go nuts over their Oxbow pellets, and turn themselves inside out for their greens which consist of Romaine, parsley, cilantro, spring mix, and mini sweet peppers. Sometimes they will each find their own spot to chill in but mostly when you find one, you find the other.
Both KitKat and Twix love to be petted and get attention despite their past circumstances.
It’s comforting to know that they have each other to share their lives with. Life is good…

13/01/2024

ADOPTED! Hamlet was adopted this past Thursday. He has a new family and a new bondmate named Nirvana. Congratulations to Hamlet & Nirvana and their humans!

ADOPTED! Hamlet was adopted on January 11, 2024. He has a new family and a new bondmate named Nirvana. Congratulations to everyone and everybun in Hamlet's new home!

Hamlet is a little adult Harlequin male rabbit, age unknown. Hamlet is ready to take his rightful place as king of your home! This little bunny has a big personality and is not shy about it. He will demand head rubs. No, you cannot touch his food (he will nip if you don't listen to the warning grunts). As a matter of fact, he demands another treat! Hamlet will let his will be known with grunts and nose taps. He would do best free-roaming with experienced rabbit owners who can give him lots of attention.

13/01/2024

ADOPTED! Oreo and Clover were adopted earlier this week. Congratulations to them and their new family!

ADOPTED! Clover and Oreo were adopted on January 9, 2024. Congratulations to this sweet pair on finding their furever home!

Meet Clover and Oreo!
Clover is a 1 1/2-year-old brown and white spayed female Rex. Clover is brave, curious, and expressive. She enjoys her wooden chew toys, and when she is happy, she loves to run and binky.
Oreo is a 3-year-old black neutered male Norwegian dwarf. He is calm, sweet, and gentle. Oreo loves wooden chew toys and big hidey boxes! He will sit in your lap for pets. When he gets a treat, he’ll grab it and run trying to find the perfect location to eat it!

31/12/2023

2024 is almost here, but there's still time to make a year-end donation to House Rabbit Connection. Simply scan the QR code to donate through Zelle, or go to https://www.hopline.org/how-you-can-help-hrc/donate-to-hrc/. Thanks in advance from everyone and everybun at HRC!

25/12/2023

HRC Members: if you have holiday photos of your rabbits that you would like to share, we'd love to publish them in our next newsletter. Please send your photos to [email protected].

We wish everyone and everybun who celebrates a very Merry Christmas!

20/12/2023

ADOPTED! Hamlet was adopted on January 11, 2024. He has a new family and a new bondmate named Nirvana. Congratulations to everyone and everybun in Hamlet's new home!

Hamlet is a little adult Harlequin male rabbit, age unknown. Hamlet is ready to take his rightful place as king of your home! This little bunny has a big personality and is not shy about it. He will demand head rubs. No, you cannot touch his food (he will nip if you don't listen to the warning grunts). As a matter of fact, he demands another treat! Hamlet will let his will be known with grunts and nose taps. He would do best free-roaming with experienced rabbit owners who can give him lots of attention.

18/12/2023

ADOPTED! Rudy was adopted yesterday. He has a new family and a new bondmate named Flapjack. Congratulations to everyone and everybun in Rudy's new family!

ADOPTED! Rudy was adopted on December 17, 2023. He has a new family and a new bondmate named Flapjack. Congratulations to everyone and everybun in Rudy's new family!

Rudy is a soon-to-be 7-year-old neutered male Lionhead mix. He was born Christmas Eve 2016 along with several siblings, hence the name “Rudy”.
This little guy is always on the move! He loves jumping up on the couch or racing around the room. He’s spicy, sweet, and cuddly. He doesn’t mind being handled.
Rudy has lived quite comfortably with cats, dogs, and other rabbits.
Warning: he does come with a “feisty attitude” and can be independent!!
There’s plenty of s***k left in this handsome bun. Therefore, he’ll need plenty of space to run in, relax in, and explore.

16/12/2023

ADOPTED! Clover and Oreo were adopted on January 9, 2024. Congratulations to this sweet pair on finding their furever home!

Meet Clover and Oreo!
Clover is a 1 1/2-year-old brown and white spayed female Rex. Clover is brave, curious, and expressive. She enjoys her wooden chew toys, and when she is happy, she loves to run and binky.
Oreo is a 3-year-old black neutered male Norwegian dwarf. He is calm, sweet, and gentle. Oreo loves wooden chew toys and big hidey boxes! He will sit in your lap for pets. When he gets a treat, he’ll grab it and run trying to find the perfect location to eat it!

14/12/2023

ADOPTED! Dusty was adopted on Tuesday. He has a new family and two new bondmates named Lenny and Benny. Congratulations to everyone and everybun in Dusty's new family!

ADOPTED! Dusty was adopted on December 12, 2023. He has a new family and two new bondmates named Lenny and Benny. Congratulations to everyone and everybun in Dusty's new family!

Dusty the Dust Bunny is an adorable 3-year-old healthy neutered male Angora bunny with a winning personality! He's curious and friendly and loves to be held, brushed, and played with. He is fully litter-trained and does not require a cage. Dusty has a fear of slipping on the floor, so he requires a large rug where he lives happily. He lives well with cats but has not been tested with dogs. Dusty is easy to care for but requires regular grooming and is seeking a home with children and adults who will love and play with him. He loves raisins, belly rubs, ear rubs and snuggling on the couch. Dusty has a clean bill of health from the vet and is ready for a new loving home.

07/12/2023

In July, we launched our new website, under the new URL houserabbit.org. This domain more closely describes our mission, purpose, and vision for improving the lives of domesticated rabbits.

You will begin to see the new look House Rabbit Society logo and houserabbit.org on digital and printed materials going forward. Our beautiful new website will be member focused and will enhance our mission, purpose, core values, and vision for improving the lives of domesticated rabbits.

Thank you for your ongoing involvement and support of House Rabbit Society – we look forward to your help in expanding our impact and improving the lives of more rabbits as we look towards 2024!

07/12/2023

We wish a Happy Hanukkah to everyone and everybun who celebrates!

*Image by brgfx on Freepik

02/12/2023

ADOPTED! Dusty was adopted on December 12, 2023. He has a new family and two new bondmates named Lenny and Benny. Congratulations to everyone and everybun in Dusty's new family!

Dusty the Dust Bunny is an adorable 3-year-old healthy neutered male Angora bunny with a winning personality! He's curious and friendly and loves to be held, brushed, and played with. He is fully litter-trained and does not require a cage. Dusty has a fear of slipping on the floor, so he requires a large rug where he lives happily. He lives well with cats but has not been tested with dogs. Dusty is easy to care for but requires regular grooming and is seeking a home with children and adults who will love and play with him. He loves raisins, belly rubs, ear rubs and snuggling on the couch. Dusty has a clean bill of health from the vet and is ready for a new loving home.

22/11/2023

These are some of the rabbits that have found their forever homes through House Rabbit Connection. We are eternally grateful for the generosity of our paid members and donations from the public, which help us to provide not only homes for rabbits that need them but help in funding for spay/neuter and educational information to help people learn how to give the best care to their rabbit companions.
This Tuesday, November 28, is Giving Tuesday. If you are able to help, please consider donating to House Rabbit Connection. Donation information is available at our website at https://www.hopline.org/how-you-can-help-hrc/donate-to-hrc/. You can also donate through Venmo or Zelle ([email protected]). Anything you can give is greatly appreciated!