[font=Times New Roman][color=limegreen][size=2]My dog brought a bunny in the house in her mouth. We\'ve now had it a week and a half. It is eating, drinking, and going to the bathroom with no problems. It loves being held, stroked and spoken to. Now it has started to lick our hands when we hold it. Why is this happening?
We were going to release it back into our yard but noticed it had a left hind lame leg. We called the ISU small animal hospital and they told us it would probably have to be put to sleep. The bunny doesn\'t appear to be in any pain. What should we do?
You might have a vet look at the leg. If the wild kit has done this well after a week and a half, I doubt it needs to be put to sleep. Because of the injury, however, releasing it now would be a death sentence.
I would have it evaluated and if the leg can heal normally, a release at some future date might be in order. If the prognosis leans toward permanent lameness, call your local Fish & Wildlife Dept. They can tell you the regulations in your state concerning rehabilitating wildlife.
Good luck.
Charlcie Gill
Zodiac Rabbitry
Astoria, OR
http://www.zodiacsatins.com
We\'ve contacted the Iowa State University small animals\' hospital and they said they would rehabilitate the sweet little bunny if possible. If it isn\'t possible they would put him to sleep.
I asked if we could have him back if they couldn\'t rehabilitate him and they said no. He is doing so well with our family we don\'t even want to chance taking him to the hospital.
Do you think he needs a salt lick? Do they even sell those for rabbits?
He loves to sit in our hands or in our lap and eat. I\'m afraid we are all becoming very attached. He comes to the door of his cage whenever we come in the room. He almost begs to be held. He doesn\'t seem to be fearful at all.
Thanks so much for your reply. We really do want to do what is best.
I guess I would ask Fish & Game over ISU. I am of the firm belief that where there is life, there is hope. You might want to find out what the laws are in Iowa concerning keeping wild animals. I\'m not an expert in that department, but it sure seems ridiculous to end a life because \"the powers that be\" decide that living in \"captivity\" as a family member is a fate worse than death...
No, you don\'t need to buy a salt lick for the bunny. If he is getting pellets, he is getting plenty of salt. They do still make them, I believe, but they\'re really unnecessary.
Good luck.
Charlcie Gill
Zodiac Rabbitry
Astoria, OR
http://www.zodiacsatins.com
Thanks so much for your reply.
I\'ve checked into adopting wild animals. It is against the law in Iowa. However, I doubt if there will ever be anyone in my home that would report this illegal activity.
Have a great Mother\'s Day!
Kellie
I know
I\'ll never tell...
Charlcie
Its obvious to me that you are \"in love\", and appear to be very responsible and concerned for this new family member of yours.
I\'d love to see pictures, and please keep us posted on his progress and how he settles in!
We have a new motto in our home: \"You ain\'t nobunny till somebunny loves you!\" I will try to post a picture of this adorable, fat bunny soon!
hate to be negative it sounds like the bunny doing great but in my past expierinces with wild bunnys is that they die at the age of 4 months for no reason what so ever i think that if i would have let them have some grass they would have done better how is your bunny doing don\'t put it to sleep if the bunny is a happy camper
PJ seems to be doing absolutely wonderful! He enjoys lots of company daily. He is getting longer and heavier. We feed him rabbit pellets, strawberries, carrots, dandelions and grass. He seems to enjoy them all. He has such a marvelous personality. He charms everyone that comes to visit. After we have held him for awhile he will fall asleep in our hands. He definately has a special place in our hearts! Thanks for the note!