New Mexico House Rabbit Society

06/09/2024

You can sign a petition asking PetCo to stop selling rabbits using the link under the image.

Get more information on the situation here: https://rabbit.org/activism/petco-press-release-sept-2024/

Have you signed the petition telling Petco to stop selling rabbits? Sign the petition now: change.org/p/end-the-sale-of-rabbits-at-petco-stores-nationwide

We have a template letter you can use to let Petco know that their decision to begin selling rabbits again is detrimental to rabbits everywhere in the United States. Find it at houserabbit.org/position-statements. It can be sent to the CEO of Petco, Joel Anderson, at [email protected]. We also urge you to call Petco's general inquiries line at 877-738-6742 to make your opinions heard.

Even though Petco states they will only be selling neutered males, this is an insult to all of the shelters and rabbit rescues that daily receive thousands of homeless rabbits, surrendered for a variety of reasons, most of whom are at risk of euthanasia due to overpopulation and lack of education. Petco should be working directly with shelters and rabbit rescues to promote adoption of homeless pet rabbits. Instead they are working with breeders to sell rabbits born only to be sold for profit. This is tragic news and a step backwards. Petco stopped selling rabbits once. They do not need to do it again.

03/09/2024

We had lots of fun at our painting fundraiser this weekend! Thank you so much to Create U 505 for leading everyone through the painting and Hops and Dough Taproom for hosting.

30/08/2024

What's in a name?
There's a reason why we are the New Mexico HOUSE RABBIT Society - because we rescue and advocate for house rabbits. All domestic rabbits belong indoors as part of the family.
A life outdoors has negative impacts on a rabbit's physical and mental health.

28/08/2024

Some silly fun on this Wednesday 😜

26/08/2024

Only a few days left to buy your tickets to our painting fundraiser (and only a few tickets left)!

Buy tickets here: https://ticketstripe.com/events/4052105825994787

24/08/2024

Think of carrots as candy bars for rabbits. Too much sugar will upset their digestive system and leads to obesity. Feeding a small piece of carrot to your rabbit should be a rare occurrence.

22/08/2024

Even indoor bunnies are at risk!

RHDV2 can be tracked into your house on your shoes and clothes. It can live without a host for 4 months so once it's inside, it stays for quite a while. There are no symptoms for RHDV2 - just sudden death.

Visit https://newmexicohrs.org/list-of-vets/ for a list of vets who offer the vaccine. Currently-unvaccinated rabbits will need 2 doses given 3 weeks apart. Your rabbit then needs one dose annually as a booster.

20/08/2024

We are about 2/3 sold out for our next painting fundraiser, so don't wait to buy tickets!

Tickets are $25: https://ticketstripe.com/events/4052105825994787

18/08/2024

Megacolon is a genetic condition that mostly affects rabbits who are white with a couple black spots (but can affect any rabbit). There isn't a test for it, but the best indicator is that your rabbit will have poops of multiple different sizes that are not round (see picture in comments).

Talk to your vet if you suspect that your rabbit might have megacolon. It is managed with a daily gut mobility medication and, when managed correctly, does not shorten the lifespan of the rabbit.

17/08/2024

It’s a topic many of us don't like to think about, but eventually we all face-end-of life issues. When it comes to our animal companions it can be particularly difficult to navigate our emotions alongside our responsibility to do what’s best for them.

Age, disability or disease do not necessarily prevent living a satisfying and joyful life. It is only when quality of life is significantly compromised — when there is suffering or when the joy has gone out of life — that’s when end-of-life questions should be examined.

The Three A’s are the most important:
1. Appetite: does my rabbit still find enjoyment in eating?
2. Affection: does my rabbit still exchange affection with me or with other companions?
3. Attitude: is my rabbit still interested? Does she like to watch, sniff, and listen to the things going on around her? Mental attitude is important.

If the answers to these questions are positive on more days than not, there is quality of life and continued supportive care is recommended. Keep re-evaluating the three A’s regularly to assess how things are going. Address the whole rabbit, not just the disease or symptoms.

More at: https://rabbit.org/.../navigating-rabbit-end-of-life-issues/

It’s a topic many of us don't like to think about, but eventually we all face-end-of life issues. When it comes to our animal companions it can be particularly difficult to navigate our emotions alongside our responsibility to do what’s best for them.

Age, disability or disease do not necessarily prevent living a satisfying and joyful life. It is only when quality of life is significantly compromised — when there is suffering or when the joy has gone out of life — that’s when end-of-life questions should be examined.

The Three A’s are the most important:
1. Appetite: does my rabbit still find enjoyment in eating?
2. Affection: does my rabbit still exchange affection with me or with other companions?
3. Attitude: is my rabbit still interested? Does she like to watch, sniff, and listen to the things going on around her? Mental attitude is important.

If the answers to these questions are positive on more days than not, there is quality of life and continued supportive care is recommended. Keep re-evaluating the three A’s regularly to assess how things are going. Address the whole rabbit, not just the disease or symptoms.

More at: https://rabbit.org/care/navigating-rabbit-end-of-life-issues/

14/08/2024

Picture yourself painting a rabbit on a canvas while munching on pizza and sipping some beer. Pretty great, right? Make sure to grab your tickets for our next instructor-led paint session at Hops & Dough Taproom/Pizzeria!

Tickets are $25: https://ticketstripe.com/events/4052105825994787

11/08/2024

Our foster, Sheffield, was recently cast for a scene in an upcoming TV show filming now in Albuquerque 🤩

He did so well that he only needed one take, and the animal handler would love to work with him again in the future. The photo below is him on location.

We will try to share the clip once the show is released. Until then, consider adopting this star. Sheffield is neutered and vaccinated for RHDV2. Submit an application at bit.ly/NMHRSadoptionapp

09/08/2024

Paint this adorable rabbit with us on August 31st at Hops & Dough Taproom.

Tickets are $25: https://ticketstripe.com/events/4052105825994787

08/08/2024

Rabbits are social animals that thrive on relationships, especially with their caregivers. Building trust with a rabbit requires patience and a deliberate effort, unlike with dogs or cats. Get on their level, speak softly, and let them come to you, offering small treats to build trust. Minimize holding, as rabbits generally dislike being lifted, but provide plenty of petting and companionship. Engage in play and mimic rabbit behaviors to strengthen your bond, appreciating each rabbit's unique personality.
More tips and wisdom at: https://bit.ly/bondwithbunny

03/08/2024

Your rabbit will very subtlety tell you when they are sick, so make sure you are paying attention and know the signs.

02/08/2024

Click here for information on how to keep your rabbit cool in hot weather: https://houserabbit.org/rabbits101/health/general-info-for-good-health/warm-weather-watch/

30/07/2024

Finally announcing the winning names from our Baby Naming Fundraiser!

We are happy to introduce (from left to right):
Himmel
Sweet Pea
Muffin
Lil Debbie
Jax
Dougie
Austin
Blanco

24/07/2024

We recognize that the world is not always black and white. While it's true that some rabbit breeders may consider themselves responsible and prioritize the welfare of their animals, it's important to recognize that breeding rabbits can have negative consequences regardless of the breeder's intentions. Responsible breeding practices can be difficult to maintain when profit is a primary motivator. Furthermore, even responsible breeders contribute to overpopulation and the burden on animal welfare organizations. Ultimately, while there may be exceptions, the overall impact of rabbit breeding on animal welfare is not ideal. It's important for pet owners to consider these broader implications and to prioritize adoption and supporting animal welfare organizations as responsible alternatives to breeding.

It's also important to acknowledge that many people have purchased rabbits from pet stores or breeders in the past (including myself!), and we do not seek to judge or shame anyone for their choices. However, it's also important to recognize the negative impact that breeding and pet trade industries can have on animal welfare and the environment. Moving forward, we can strive to make more informed and responsible choices when it comes to pet ownership. By adopting from shelters or rescues, supporting animal welfare organizations, and spreading awareness about these issues, we can work towards a more compassionate and sustainable future for all animals.

Breeding rabbits is controversial. While some say it's responsible, overpopulation, health issues, and exploitation can result. Adopting rabbits from shelters is an alternative. Get facts in this post from reputable sources like House Rabbit Society and ASPCA. Raise awareness and make a difference f...

20/07/2024

Spaying or neutering your rabbit is so crucial for their health and behavior. Even single rabbits should be fixed.
Visit our website (www.newmexicohrs.org) to see a list of vets in the state who will operate on rabbits.

16/07/2024

Another reminder that vet care can be expensive. When you adopt a rabbit, you are committing yourself to 10+ years of vet bills. You are their only chance at getting lifesaving medical attention.

We suggest having at least $500 set aside for vet bills. If you don't spend that in a year, keep adding to it because as rabbits get older they will need more care.

13/07/2024

"They're part of your world, but you're their WHOLE world."

Adopting a rabbit is a 10+ year commitment, which means being prepared to adapt to their changing needs as they age.

08/07/2024

Looking for some extra joy in your life? Check out our available rabbits.

https://newmexicohrs.org/adoptable-buns/

07/07/2024

RHDV2 is an extremely contagious and deadly disease that can be transmitted to your rabbits from your clothing and shoes. Getting your rabbit vaccinated - and continuing to give them their annual booster - is a lifesaving action.

04/07/2024

Keep your rabbits feeling safe tonight.

30/06/2024

Just a few days left to participate in our baby naming fundraiser!

We have 8 babies in our foster care right now who will eventually need to be spayed/neutered and vaccinated, but right now they need NAMES!

To help us pay their upcoming vet bills, we are hosting a fun little fundraiser where you get to pick what we name them.

You can view all of the babies at the link below. Click on "Suggest a Name" at the top and then select your donation amount. On the next page, write your name suggestion in the comment box (it will be public for everyone else to see). If you would like your name to go towards a certain baby, please specify which baby in your comment.

See a name in the comments that you really like? Vote for it by listing the same name in your donation comment box - the names with the most money raised will be the winners.

Donate to help us name our babies!

21/06/2024

As prey animals, rabbits feel most secure with all 4 feet on the ground. However, sometimes picking up your rabbit is necessary.

ALWAYS make sure you are supporting their back legs & hips when picking up a rabbit to prevent damage to their spine.

19/06/2024

Rabbits make amazing pets, but make sure to properly research what is involved in their care to make sure they are the right choice for you!

17/06/2024

Oh Baby!

We have 8 babies in our foster care right now who will eventually need to be spayed/neutered and vaccinated, but right now they need NAMES!

To help us pay their upcoming vet bills, we are hosting a fun little fundraiser where you get to pick what we name them.

You can view all of the babies at the link below. Click on "Suggest a Name" at the top and then select your donation amount. On the next page, write your name suggestion in the comment box (it will be public for everyone else to see). If you would like your name to go towards a certain baby, please specify which baby in your comment.

See a name in the comments that you really like? Vote for it by listing the same name in your donation comment box - the names with the most money raised will be the winners.

Donate to help us name our babies!