Notch and Turner’s Diary
The day before Easter, we were blessed to start fostering two rabbits: Notch and Turner. They are products of a large rescue effort. A bit shy at first, they have started adapting to our menagerie (a 3 year old girl, 6 year old boy (humans), a cat, and 3 dogs…not the least of which is a 90-pound American Pit Bull).
Notch is less timid, but also less inquisitive. Turner is easily spooked, but often stands up and takes a look around. Turner is also the “King” We watch another rabbit on the weekends and Turner promptly went up to Hoppity’s cage and pooped. When hoppity was out playing (we keep them separated), Turner took the first chance he got to get in the cage and soil it. Okay, lesson learned…shut the cage door when Hoppity is out.
I let both Notcha nd Turner free-roam during the day. They do not seem to make any potty mistakes.
Notch likes playing with my daughter’s sit-and-spin.
I started working with both of them on two commands: Stop and Come. I use stop just before I try to pick them up to get them to just hunker down— I also intend to use it remotely if they are getting ready to get into danger—just like you would tell a dog to stay or come. Come, well, you can figure out why I use that one…They both like hiding under beds and in tight spaces. I am also working on harness training them. I believe that bunnies as well as people need sunlight and fresh air each day. Hopefully their permanent home will be willing to take them on walks or have a safe fenced yard.
Oh my Gosh…I discovered tonight that Turner LOVES having a bunny massage. Here is a great description of a bunny massage, but I changed it a little and “tranced him” flipping him on his back for the last part. http://www.catsandrabbitsandmore.com/massage_for_rabbits
My vet also suggested (although not surprising if you pay any attention) that there are three accupressure points going from the middle of the bridge of the nose, between the eyebrows and right between the ears. I massaged each of these for a while and he begin lightly grinding his teeth and drooling just a bit. It could be conincidence, but after his massage, I took him and put him in his cage so he could use the litter box. He quickly came out and actually explored rooms with people in them. (Usually he goes to the unoccupied rooms and looks around).
Okay, well I must sign off… Tune in tomorrow and see….
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