Dandelions is small sanctuary dedicated to guarantee the highest level of welfare and enrichment for all our bunny residents. Further to this we seek to educate and spread the word of the very particular requirements of rabbits so that bunny owners can ensure their rabbits are physically fit and mentally stimulated.
For far too long rabbits have been percieved as a cuddly companion for young children, a strange type of ‘live’ garden ornament that is housed in a hutch that enables a mere jump to left and right and not normally high enough for them to fully stretch up on their hind legs – bought out on sunny days though normally not really interacted with if the weather is a little drear, fed and watered once a day and cleaned out once a week – this is the life for most of these poor rabbits and its shockingly sad for these dear creatures … and actually equates to animal neglect!
The reality is rabbits are really quite inappropriate pets for children. Without neutering, constant interraction, stimulation, correct diet, sizeable and appropriate environment and toys to enable them to act out their instincts – they can quickly become aggressive, territorial and defensive.
It is much reported that they are ground loving creatures and so not too fond of being picked up. If you think about their wild counterparts, as a prey animal the only time their feet leave the ground, other than jumping is when caught by a predator – and so their instinct is to wriggle free. In the process they can do great harm to their lower spine so you are always better off interacting with them on their terms! Hence if you want a cuddle – get yourself down on the floor! and let them come to you (a little treat in the hand is a good starting point!)
Rabbits are incredibly social creatures and should always be housed with another rabbit (neutered male with a neutered female the perfect match). And both male and female rabbits should ALWAYS be neutered, wether bonded or not, more about this on our neutering page.
If you are an adult considering adopting or purchasing a rabbit, please take the time to read through this website first. They are incredibly sweet and endearing creatures if catered for and treated correctly – though their needs are great (moreso than a dog or a cat) and if you are not willing to make the sacrifice of time, money and your environment for the duration of their life (which could be up to 10 years) then a rabbit is not an appropriate pet for you.