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Forum RESCUE EFFORTS FOR SHELTERS Our new little bunnies… (Kafrn and JG)

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    • Kafrn
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        Hi everyone, I have been lurking on the forums but havent posted for awhile so I thought we could give you an update on whats been happening around South Australia  

        So a few months ago a man came into my shop and told me that he had 6 bunnies from an accidental litter that needed homes. I had a few personal issues with the local shelther around that time, and said that I could take them in and rehome them, and we talked about desexing his rabbits etc (2 of them were already done)… So they came home with me.

        Finding good homes for them was really hard! We had heaps of people enquire, but I was so paranoid about them going in someones backyard in a hutch… and being forgotten… but finally everything went fantastic, and they all found good indoor homes in same sex pairs with people who desexed them etc… A happy ending.

        The same man came into the shop again the other day and told us he had more litters. All of his males were now desexed so we werent sure how. There were 9 in the first litter, 5 in the second, and 6 in the third. They were all 4 weeks apart.

        JerseyGirl and I went to have a look one night, and sexed all the 8 week old babies. There are 8 in the first litter to be rehomed.

        The next day he came in to see me and told me that some of the babies that were 6 or 7 days old were dying, and one wasnt looking well at all!  I wanted to go and have a look that night but he was working. The following morning I went around there but unfortunately it had passed away. We were too late. We looked at the rest of the ones in the litter and 3 of them looked fat and healthy, but 2 looked really skinny and wrinkly. We tried to catch mum but all the adult bunnies were hiding in burrows and really stressed.

        I ended up taking these 2 little ones home to bottle feed. One had diarrhea, but was still a bit thirsty, and the other one sucks from the syringe really well. They were both bright and happy last night but unfortunately when JerseyGirl came to visit this morning we were sad to find that we had lost one.

        Jersey and I went to pick up the 8 week olds, as they are fostering at her place until they find homes…. (JG has 12 bunnies )

        When we got there the man told us that another tiny baby had died overnight and the remaining 2 looked really bad.

        There were 2 left, a little black otter and a little fawn one.

        Mum obviously wasnt feeding because these 2 looked so malnourished. We brought them back to my work and gave them some milk. Little Otter one (Koo-Koo-Kachoo) passed away within 20 minutes, but the other one is doing really well so far…

        So now we have 2 little babies that are about 7 days old. JG and I think they look younger, but its hard to say. Im milk feeding them every few hours as they are so thirsty. One had diarrhea but it seems better this afternoon… and JG has just taken her 8 little babies home…

        We tried sexing the rabbits that were at the mans house this morning to see who the male is thats not fixed but we cant find him! There are 2 more pregnant females there, he says he only has 5 rabbits that are adult but that kind of doesnt add up. We found three females, two of them are pregnant AGAIN, and 2 males…. neither of them seem to have “Boy bits” …. I know he had 2 desexed…. we cant work out how they are getting pregnant! The bunnies had used the same nest for 3 litters, and it smells really really bad, like a decomposing smell, so hopefully if he cleans it out the  next 2 litters could be raised by mum, but its got us really confused as to how they are getting pregnant  

         

         

        The one on the left is doing really well today, JG named her Earl, and the one on the right is Chance, unfortunately he passed away this morning.

         

         

        This is Earl, after giving her a syringe of her milk.

         

         

        Here are the 2 little bunnies that are thriving this afternoon. JG has named them for me because I was worried about getting attached, they are touch-and-go at the moment, but they are doing well today and with some healing vibes we are keeping our fingers crossed.

        Pekoe and Earlie are their names. Pekoe is slighly more orange than little Earlie. Im off to give another feed to them now, but I think JG has some great pictures to share too   And of the 8 week olds too.

         

         

         


      • jerseygirl
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          Yes… We’re up to our eyeballs with rabbits here.
          It’s amazing how quickly the numbers can escalate when rabbits are left intact.

          I’ll add some pics later if that’s ok re forum rules. Right now though just want to request some BB power vibes for these 2 please.


        • Kafrn
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            Just had another feed. They are taking about 2mls each feed, and are feeding during daylight hours every 2 hours at the moment. Just to keep them hydrated and keep their tummies going. I know that mum would only feed once every 24 hours, but our milk is not as rich so I am feeding more regularly. Plus we are only feeding when they are searching for milk. They are now pooing normally again so the wombaroo milk must be doing them good. THey love their wheat bag and snuggle right into it to stay warm.


          • Roberta
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              Is there possibly another burrow really close to the fence line thats hidden or access where a neighbour or even wild bun could get in ?


            • Kafrn
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                We had considered that but the man said that there was wire underneath the whole thing so nobunny could get out… Also the adults are VERY skittish and run for cover in their burrows when we go in there… We thought if there was an exit outside the fence they would have taken it?
                Also, another rabbit went to stay with them over christmas, but apparently was kept seperate… which could be untrue… but it would have had to have been there 3 months to impregnante the does 3 times…
                Actually JG and I think that 2 more of the other females there are close to dropping litters now too, so its a bit of a disaster…… the females are so stressed at the moment though that they might not have the babies… I dont know…


              • Monkeybun
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                  yeah, thats odd. Maybe he missed one of them getting neutered.


                • MimzMum
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                    These poor creatures. I would guess maybe there’s a male hiding from a previous litter that’s doing the dirty work here, or this guy’s just not being straight with you. Is he some kind of animal hoarder or something? He’s surely not breeding for money?

                    Poor little peanuts. Lots of loving, thriving vibes coming from the other pole for them. And thank God for you both, these babies would have no chance without you! ((((((Hugs))))))))


                  • LittlePuffyTail
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                      They are so cute! I sure wish I was closer (you know, and not half way around the world) so I could help you with those little angels! You guys are so wonderful to take them in!

                      Such an awful situation but such adorable little babies! There is nothing in the world more precious. Keep the picture and updates coming please!


                    • Beka27
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                        This is unbelievable. I commend you guys for taking them in and trying to help, but at what point is enough enough? He’s going to keep doing this (IF it’s intentional) as long as there are people to “bail him out”. The females need to be spayed, both for their long-term health, and obviously just neutering males isn’t cutting it.


                      • jerseygirl
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                          At the risk of sounding pedantic….I want to say to anyone reading this that is thinking of breeding their rabbits – Please. Dont.  Or is you have an entire Buck and Doe together, separate them now.  It is so heartbreaking seeing these ones fighting for life and burying those that have gone.  Both of us have already fretted a lot wondering about the sort of homes the fosters will go to. It’s a lot of rabbits and this just from one home! We just have to hope there are plenty of good people that will do the right thing by these buns and give them a great life. 

                          I am trying to give this family the benefit of the doubt… They have tried to prevent this and gotten some males desexed after last years litters. I think they have maybe mis-gendered one though as a female when it’s actually a male. They have been open about allowing us back and we plan to get all adult buns aside and sort this out.  *Sigh*

                          MM, interesting you used the term “peanut”. We were just talking tonight whether some of them have been peanuts. The mortality rate has been high.

                          The older buns, the fosters; have fed themselves well and settled into a bunny sleep puddle tonight.  I havent got decent pics of them as yet.


                        • jerseygirl
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                            Sorry Beka, I hadnt seen your post yet.

                            We were able to bring up desexing the females the other day but there are a lot. I don’t hold out much hope of that happening unfortunately. They’ve been open to our suggestion and would get any intact males (if we find one!) desexed and now know to keep a desexed male separated directly after neuter. They are saying its been unintentional but we can’t say we’re getting to full story… Maybe we’ll know when we next visit and sort out the adult rabbit situation.

                            The ones previously taken and one currently in my care all seem very healthy. Also, the rabbits at the house appear this way too. But I think health of the possible litters to come (we’re not certain) will not be great. So absolutely, this needs to be sorted out.


                          • RabbitPam
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                              OMG, you guys. I don’t like this man one bit. He’s not being straight with you, and I think someone more “formal” needs to be involved. He obviously can’t correctly sex his bunnies, I suspect there wasn’t the neutering he claimed (does he even have the money for all of them to have been done?) and you are his new dumping ground. Have you talked to the local shelter to ask if they know him? He may have a history and have been rejected by others already. You guys just cannot handle this quantity of breeding, and it is breeding, not 1/2 dozen “happy accidents-oops” litters. He has to stop, and you can’t enable.

                              That said, you have sick and dying babies on your hands and that’s too tragic. The two pictured (come on, you guys, you know the rules) are doing better thanks to you. I think the pregnant does of his need to be removed and taken to a shelter where they will have their litters under supervised conditions and they will be raised and rehomed if they survive. Personal issues aside, you are NOT a shelter, and they have the responsibility of tending to these bunnies’ care and dealing with him if he is either breeding (if so, he’s on his own and need to comply with legal requirements of that) or hoarding or just plain dumb. He’s in over his head. Now you both will be in over your heads in about a week. Don’t do it.

                              Get more help and extricate yourselves from him. Please.
                              Meanwhile, little guardian angels, the two you pictured are getting {{{{{{{{{{{Healing Vibes}}}}}}}} from me. The does need them too, and they all need to be examined by vets. This guy is bogus.


                            • jerseygirl
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                                Thanks for the advice. There is SO much more re shelter situation that I cannot go into on the boards here. We may be able to talk with our RSPCA.  We are currently putting together a foster network though so we’re not alone in this or be inundated. I personally am a very temporary fosterer. I just don’t think I’m cut out for more then that.

                                This guy did get a couple neutered. We’ve seen that as we caught a few and checked. Still, obviously there is one intact male unaccounted for!

                                *I’ll remove the pics I added. Sorry, I wasn’t sure it not being our own rabbits.


                              • RabbitPam
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                                  Hi, I think the RSPCA is a great idea, and it might be possible to talk to them about the shelter issues as well. Maybe they can help there, too.
                                  Thanks for removing your pix. I vote for the 3 above to stay, as long as no more new ones. (Actually, the one you posted where the 2 look so much healthier was a relief to see, so maybe put it back? At least until BB slaps my wrist for saying so.)

                                  Only takes 2 intact buns, like on the ark.


                                • Beka27
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                                    How many adult rabbits are there? My suggestion would be to catch each one, put it into an individual carrier or transport box, and take it to the vet for a complete exam, a double-check of sex, and to make sure IF male, he is neutered. Once neutered, I think an ear tattoo or something identifying the rabbit would be a good idea in this case. Would the guy be open to at least spaying the pregnant rabbits, or better yet, surrendering all of the females and just keeping the intact males?


                                  • Elrohwen
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                                      Wow, this whole situation is so horrible. I’m with Pam on this – I think the guy is bogus and he sounds like a hoarder or an idiot. I commend you guys for taking in the little buns, but I would really try to separate yourselves from him. He needs to learn responsibility for his actions, though I can only imagine how hard it is to walk away when you feel like you’re doing good for the rabbits.


                                    • jerseygirl
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                                        I believe there is 5 currently. Though, as Kafrn said, something is not adding up. Hopefully with another visit, we’ll have a clearer picture. He didn’t sell or receive money for the previous rabbits nor has asked for money for these ones. We are looking to home the older kits to people that are prepared to desex and if going in pairs, to go in same sex pairs. Attempting to stop the cycle.
                                        We have discussed about helping arrange for further desexings of the adult rabbits they have now.


                                      • jerseygirl
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                                          Ugh. Maybe we have been too trusting? He just doesn’t strike me as that way.


                                        • RabbitPam
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                                            I’m sure I don’t need to say this, but….. if he mentions money, as in asking you guys to pay for Anything, do not do it! If he can’t afford to speuter them, he can’t afford them and removal is his only choice. He sounds strange. (Don’t tell him where you live…LOL)


                                          • Elrohwen
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                                              You can only trust your gut in this situation and if you guys think he’s genuine then you have to go with that feeling. From an outside perspective it really doesn’t add up that he could be that clueless, but maybe he is. I think Beka’s idea is the best – round up all of the rabbits and put them in carriers to really see what you have and get them looked over by a vet. If there’s no way to get the pregnant females spayed they could at least be separated from the group so they can have their babies in peace and have a chance to care for them without immediately getting pregnant again or having other rabbits harass them.


                                            • BinkyBunny
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                                                 This is a very sad situation. No good deed goes unpunished.  I wonder if this guy has found himself overwhelmed and is embarrassed to reveal how much so.  Maybe he is just realizing only now how crazy this situation really is as a few rabbits can turn into a hundred in a short amount of time. And he either is just not understanding how bad this can get (or just beginning to realize it) and is looking for ways to try and shrink the problem, even though it’s only a temporary fix to the REAL problem.  Because if he really knew how quickly this is going to get out of hand (even worse than it was), you’d think he and his family would spend their waking hours making sure all adutls were separated and accounted for.   

                                                I can’t imagine how  hard this is to deal with,  – trying to manage this all on your own has now got be overwhelming.  I’m so sorry that this is happening.  It can’t be easy to try and save these bunnies, and watch heartbreaking consequences to this man’s type of care.  Regardless of  what’s really going on with him, he seems looking for a life raft and if he’s not careful, he could sink the whole boat.

                                                 I hope he will listen to you and follow direction, but at this point, he really shouldn’t be owning any rabbits as he can’t manage them responsibly. 

                                                What are his goals with this situation anyway?  Does he want to keep any of these rabbits?  It’s not an animal hoarding situation is it?  (though it seems to be quickly on the way to one). What does he say he wants from all of this?  

                                                I also agree that if there is any way to get more help from rescues, animal groups.  (or to hand it over to them and you just help them out), that would be ideal.  I don’t know if the guy wants to get anyone else involved, but it needs to be impressed on him how quickly this will get out of hand and that you two cannot handle it all. That the way to get this taken care of in timely manner is to have more help. 

                                                It sounds like you are working on a plan of action (great to hear about the foster network you are trying to put together), and Elrohwens suggestion of separating out the females, and then Bekas suggestion of just getting them out one by one if need be to a vet is a great plan. Hopefully all the expenses would be cared for by the family!  

                                                Do you have animal rescue groups locally that can come and actually check on this situation?   I’m not sure what the laws or regulations are there, but I for some reason thought that reckless(even if it was unintentional) breeding of a rabbit would be a big no no, especially in Australia. 

                                                Regarding the photos — EDITED:  I can see where it would be a bit confusing as this is a rescue situation and you yourselves are not intentionally breeding these bunnies.  I think that because this is a rescue situation,  limited photos are okay  -  if it is directly related to a health or behavior issue where the photos help with understanding and explanation, as well as help guide others to offering better advice based on a visual.  It’s just that showing for the sake of “baby cuteness” is where the line is drawn. 

                                                I will also be moving this soon to the Rescue Section.   


                                              • Kafrn
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                                                  Thank you everyone for your comments and input for this situation… My personal opinion is that this man is trying to do his best but the situation has gotten out of control. The first litter that he had, he took top the local fodder store so they could sell them. The following day he went back to the fodder store, and saw the condition of how the babies were being kept… And he bought the whole litter back from them, and went to our local pet shop for help.
                                                  Our local Pet shop does not sell rabbits / kittens / guinea pigs / mic / rats etc anymore because they are upset by the overpopulation problem. When someone comes in looking for a rabbit they give the customer my shop address and people come up here. Because of our facebook page, sometimes we can help out with rehoming unwanted bunnies, and we get them to fill out an adoption form, and try to help out if its a good home.
                                                  This man is desexing his rabbits. I agree that there is an issue somewhere, because the problem is getting out of hand, but he is willing for us to go to his house and help sex and seperate the remaining rabbits, which is great because he understands there is a problem and is working to fix it.
                                                  He isnt breeding intentionally, as he is receiving no money or anything from these babies. He is genuinely concerned about where they will be rehomed. But YES, he has made a mistake having all these babies and I am in no way making excuses for him .

                                                  The problem that JG and I were faced with when we went to his house the other day (to help sex the rabbits) was that this young litter was dying. Some looked healthy and some did not. I had the option of leaving them there to die, or taking the sick ones home and trying to help. I chose to help.

                                                  We have issues with our local “shelter” here in Adelaide. Unfortunately there is only one person who claims to “walk the walk” with rabbits in SA, and I am sorry but after many personal experiences with this individual, she is not coming anywhere near any rabbit in my care. I cant say much more than that because it is a current issue we are dealing with.

                                                  We are happy to seek assistance from the RSPCA if needed, but as for the yard where the babies have come from, the bunnies there are kept within the regulations of the animal welfare act. It is not against the law to breed here, the government relies heavily on environmental control to curb the population, and this guy really does only have 5 permanent resident rabbits. The RSPCA would praise him for keeping them in such a lovely yard. They could certainly help us with the rehoming process of the babies though!!!

                                                  Today is Day 3. We have 2 very fat, wriggly babies who (after a bout of diarrhea yesterday) are now pooing normally and weeing all over me as they take their bottle. They are doing so well! (Touch wood)

                                                  They are a lot bigger than they were yesterday. I fed them every 2 hours through the night, and they are coming to work with me and sleeping on JGs wheat bag for warmth. Healing vibes for these little dudes please everyone!!! I know that it is a touch and go situation, but we are really having to take one day at a time. TODAY they are doing well, and I am thankful for that.


                                                • Kafrn
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                                                    Thanks BB, I wont post anymore pics. I honestly dind’t post them for the cuteness factor, as its a serious situation and especially after having to bury two of them yesterday, we are certainly more concerned for the babies wellbeing. I wanted to show you just how small these guys are that we are dealing with, but I promise not to post any more unless we have a health issue that we need advice on or something like that.


                                                  • bunnyfriend
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                                                      What an unfortunate situation, poor bunnies. You guys are so dedicated!! I’m glad the 2 bunnies are doing better.


                                                    • BinkyBunny
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                                                        Posted By Kafrn on 02/01/2012 06:25 PM
                                                        Thanks BB, I wont post anymore pics. I honestly dind’t post them for the cuteness factor, as its a serious situation and especially after having to bury two of them yesterday, we are certainly more concerned for the babies wellbeing. I wanted to show you just how small these guys are that we are dealing with, but I promise not to post any more unless we have a health issue that we need advice on or something like that.

                                                        No worries.  I have only seen the two photos and I understand the reason behind it as it was relating to health.  JG had just mentioned in one of her posts if would be okay to post photos  and I was clarifying the rules as it can get a little confusing. 


                                                      • RabbitPam
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                                                          Thanks for the clarification, BB. I took the photos as K. intended, so I did like one in particular that JG has since removed which showed their growth and improvement in just one day. Suffice to say that they are obviously improving with both of your care, and I think these 2 have a strong chance of pulling through.

                                                          Also, K, thanks for explaining the situation with him in more detail. You want to give him the benefit of the doubt, but litters happen so fast that I can hear many people say “I meant to get them all fixed next month after I got paid, etc.” not realizing how quickly it gets out of hand.

                                                          That’s why (for anyone reading this) I urge new bunny owners to make the appointment with the vet NOW, way in advance, by months even if necessary, to get the speuter done. Don’t wait for gender id, don’t house with other rabbits at all, let the vet do it as soon as they are comfortable but plan on it. It’s kind of like getting a screening for a disease: by the time you can see the lump it’s late. By the time you are sure know a bunny’s gender, they are already fertile.

                                                          K, put a fire under the RSPCA to really help you with some assistance. If they have any funding that can cover your expenses in exchange for being a formal foster site, get it from them. If they have resources locally to help you connect with sources of food, habitats, supplies, other fosters, tap them. In other words, make them help you help them. Also your local government service agencies may have some immediate assistance available for fosters or even potential new rescue operations. An hour of local research on the net may be fruitful while these bunnies multiply!


                                                        • jerseygirl
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                                                            The 2 little infant buns are still kicking along and taking their milk 6 days after Kafrn took them on. So great to see!!

                                                            As for the other rabbits, the 8 fosters at my place are settled nicely and didn’t take them long to relax. They are actually using a litter box reasonably well also! We did some photos the other day for their adoptions and have already had a nice response. 2 possibly going to new homes within the next 2 days. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Adelaide-Rabbit-Rescue-Foster-Network/260602634013204

                                                            We also revisited the house and double checked all the mature rabbits. There were 4 females and 2 desexed males. We also learnt one male was only just desexed the week before Christmas and not kept separated post neuter. The people did not know to do this.
                                                            The timing of these last litters does work out to fall in the zone when a buck is still fertile post neuter. So the 2 males are now separated out for another fortnight just to be absolutely sure.

                                                            We did a check over the 5 week old buns and tried to sex most. Glad we did as we found one that needed attention with messy poo bottom.
                                                            After the visit yesterday I was feeling like things were a bit more in control. There’s a lot of buns going to be needing new homes but I feel the cycle has been stopped now, at least in this one back yard.


                                                          • Kafrn
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                                                              Cant wait to see the foster babies again! *Squee!*
                                                              Earlie and Pekoe are doing really well. They are SUPER hungry today, and I think if I just let them suck continuously on the syringe, they would eat all day!
                                                              When they first came in I was feeding every 2 hours for the whole 24 hours. Now that they are a bit bigger and stronger, and not dehydrated, they have come back to one feed every 4 – 5 hours which is great because I only have to get up once in the night.
                                                              Pekoe had a REALLY bad bloat episode the other night. His tummy was enormous, I thought we were going to lose him throughout the night. I gave him a smidgen of Infacol, and a few hours of tummy rubs and then let him rest. I thought we were going to lose him, but thankfully in the morning he was back to normal size. I was so relieved. There was poo everywhere. I think he drank too much. Sometimes they do little turbo sucks and then fall asleep. Maybe he swallowed too much air?

                                                              I should have tried burping him. heh heh.

                                                              Both babies are so different. They are exactly the same colour but Pekoe has a round head shape, where Earlie has a little pointed nose.
                                                              I know that you are not meant to sex them until they are much older but we had a look the other day and I reckon Pekoe is a boy and Earlie is a girl… We will have to wait until they are older and its a bit more clear, lol but its fun to have a guess.

                                                              Anyway they are starting to attempt little *hops* around their nesting container, and their eyes are getting ready to open, you can see it! Hopefully they will open tonight Im going to visit JG and it would be cool if they did it then!!!!!!!!!
                                                              Now that they are taking larger feeds less frequently, they sleep really heavily. JG gave them a wheat bag to borrow and when we heat it up they like to sleep sprawled out on their side in the warmth. Then when I open the lid and they can smell the milk from their syringe, they start wobbling around like crazy.
                                                              I dont know if Earlie can smell me, but if I put her on the bed she always finds her way into my hand and falls asleep there.
                                                              Oh gosh, listen to me, I sound like a new parent :/


                                                            • jerseygirl
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                                                                A sad update. Pekoe, the bigger of the 2 infant buns passed away tonight. He’d been quieter today but still drinking really strongly. Earlie has a snuggle bunny toy in with her and fingers crossed she’ll keep her strength up.


                                                              • bunnyfriend
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                                                                  Oh no Binky free Pekoe. Is it that the babies are sick or are they just too young?

                                                                  Totoro, Wilbur, and I are sending lots of vibes for baby Earlie.


                                                                • BinkyBunny
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                                                                    I’m sorry to hear of the loss of Pekoe. You have done some much to try and save them, and so I am sure that was very difficult. Binky Free Pekoe. 

                                                                    JerseyGirl: Thank you for providing the link the to rescue photo album. Great way to share the progress and it was fun to see. So wonderful to hear about the possible two adoptions soon!

                                                                     

                                                                    Posted By jerseygirl on 02/04/2012 08:41 PM

                                                                    After the visit yesterday I was feeling like things were a bit more in control. There’s a lot of buns going to be needing new homes but I feel the cycle has been stopped now, at least in this one back yard.

                                                                     

                                                                    This is really incredible news! YAY! JerseyGirl and Kafrn – I just can’t believe it, you pretty much single…er double handedly, stopped this situation from getting further out of control, saved precious little lives and stopped further loss by preventing further litters. I had serious doubts about how this would play out, but you nipped this in the bud. Congratulations as your hard work, persistence and care has really paid off and made a difference. It sounds like this family is open and willing to learn. Hopefully, this was one learning lesson they will never have to relearn — and maybe then they can prove to be an example and teach others they know how quickly just a few intact rabbits can get out of control. Congratulations on having your efforts pay off.


                                                                  • MimzMum
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                                                                      I was thinking of you ladies this morning and wondering how all was progressing. I am so sorry to hear little Pekoe passed. Binky free wee one. Watch over Earlie with your other littermates from the Bridge. (tears welling up)
                                                                      But how wonderful to hear that the situation may now be under control. I’m sorry for the heartbreak you’ve suffered in taking this on but, well done both of you! ((((((((((BIG HUGS))))))))

                                                                      I can’t seem to manage the photos. The site itself links up though and it looks like a grand place.


                                                                    • Kafrn
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                                                                        Hi all, thank you for your kind words about Pekoe, it happened very suddenly and unexpectedly last night.
                                                                        I went to visit the buns at JGs house and we clipped all their nails and checked all the teeth (and triple checked their sexes!!!)
                                                                        Jersey is so good with them and knows them all by their names now. lol.
                                                                        I felt bad because 2 of them had found homes and I had to take them home with me to meet their owners, and now there are only 6 there. But they are all healthy and happy. The white one is identical to my old bunny Flopsy. Oh my gosh, she has the same markings etc, its amazing! She is such a pretty bunny! And TROUBLE is so CHEEKY! everyone else sits there nicely munching on the hay, and hes out digging the carpet, and stomping, and breaking through the fence so he can chin everything in the room. LOL

                                                                        So we buried Pekoe with his siblings in the back yard. Earlie now has a bunny toy to snuggle up to and seems to be ok but now I am checking on her every 5 minutes like a paranoid penguin. Shes drinking a LOT today. And she seems to be staying warm for longer, I wonder if she is getting some control over maintaining her body temperature?

                                                                        We took an awesome video last night of Earlie, she is getting really mobile. If I upload to youtube, am I allowed to post a link here? So you can see how she has grown?

                                                                        We cleaned her eyes with a Q-tip yesterday but they are still closed this morning. I am wondering if she was younger than we thought when we got her, or if she is underdeveloped? I have read that if their eyes are still closed on day 13 they can become blind… I believe today is day 13…. Im trying not to worry about it too much…

                                                                        So Trouble and Chi-Chi came to my place for a sleep over last night and today they are at work with me. Troubles new owner came and met him this morning. She is a vet nurse at the vet around the corner from me. She is AMAZING with trouble. She was telling me the story about how she found a nest of wild baby bunnies on her farm and the mother had been poisoned by the neighbours… the babies were still pink and didnt have any fur…
                                                                        She bottle fed them for 8 weeks…. 4 of them survived, and one became their house bunny who lived with them for 10 years! This bunny passed away not too long ago, and Trouble is the new bun in their household.
                                                                        I showed her Earlie, and she said she looks good! She said not to feed any colostrum, and we are doing all the right things… *bites nails*

                                                                        Also, she has joined our page on facebook so that we will get regular updates on how Trouble is doing!!! (JG, you will have to join FB to see! heh heh)

                                                                        Another lady is coming to meet Chi-Chi this afternoon. I get so nervous meeting these people. It was ok with Trouble because I knew the lady taking him… But the lady taking Chi-Chi seems very nice, and she didnt mind doing the application etc.

                                                                        So now JG has 6 bunnies……

                                                                        And I have Earlie.


                                                                      • Kafrn
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                                                                          http://adelaiderabbitrescue.weebly.com/baby-earlie.html

                                                                          I have written a sort of journal of *Earlies story* if anyone would like to have a look.

                                                                          There is a video of her down the bottom of the page so you can see how she has developed in the week that we have had her.


                                                                        • Monkeybun
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                                                                            Awww poor little Pekoe Binky Free little guy!

                                                                            Earlie is so wiggly! Hope she continues to do well. We’lll cross all out bunny ears for her over here.


                                                                          • emkvet
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                                                                              Nearly started crying when I read about Pekoe (MM, my eyes are welled up too); I’m so sorry Kafrn and JG. Binky free, sweet baby.

                                                                              You guys are doing an amazing job! I can’t believe all you have done, and that 2 of the buns already have homes. It’s really inspiring to see the work you’re doing for these buns.

                                                                              Sending SO MANY VIBES to little Earlie!


                                                                            • FrankieFlash
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                                                                                Vibes for Earlie! Keep strong little one!


                                                                              • RabbitPam
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                                                                                  I’m so sorry about Pekoe, but you gave him the nurturing he needed in his wee life, and that means a lot. I’ve been off a couple of days so can’t wait to see the links to updates. Sounds like you’re both doing a wonderful job!!!


                                                                                • Kafrn
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                                                                                    Thank you guess what?? Earlie opened her eyes ! I updated the video page, you can see her growth in video and pics here: http://www.adelaiderabbitrescue.weebly.com
                                                                                    It’s 4:35 am, she’s just had a feed and she’s looking so big now!


                                                                                  • FrankieFlash
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                                                                                      Yay! I’m going to keep sending healing vibes that she grows strong and healthy.


                                                                                    • Kafrn
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                                                                                        Thanks Frankie Shes really mobile today, shes drinking so much milk, and if I mix it too weak, she wont touch it. It HAS to be super creamy. And she is now trying to climb out of the little container that I had made into a nest for her.
                                                                                        She wont sleep in the warmth anymore, she climbs on top of all her blankets and sits there stubbornly until she gets cold. So I am having to microwave her wheat bag more often to keep her warm. Shes peeing HEAPS and pooing not much at all… Shes really fat now and because of her appetite I dont think shes in pain or anything, maybe they just poo less as they get older? I dont know. It doesnt feel like bloat anymore.


                                                                                      • RabbitPam
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                                                                                          Those blankie colors must look amazing to her. I love that you praised her pee.


                                                                                        • emkvet
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                                                                                            Eeeeee! Earlier is getting so big (and so are her ears!). She looks fantastic; I love how her hair is so spiky still. What a doll. Sending continued vibes!


                                                                                          • bunnyfriend
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                                                                                              I hope she continues to do well!


                                                                                            • Freyja
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                                                                                                oh they are so sweet! i had no idea there was another rescue centre here in SA!!


                                                                                              • Kafrn
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                                                                                                  Thanks everyone
                                                                                                  Freyja – you are from Adelaide? Where did you get your buns?


                                                                                                • Freyja
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                                                                                                    I’m from the Adelaide hills a friend of a friend had an accidental litter and i offered to take a bun where abouts is the rescue out of curiosity or is it foster based? its great to know there is another place looking after all the poor rescue buns, if only i had more space to foster…


                                                                                                  • jerseygirl
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                                                                                                      Welcome to BB.com Freyja. : ) I’m in north east of Adelaide.

                                                                                                      where abouts is the rescue out of curiosity or is it foster based?

                                                                                                      Yes, it’s foster based. Or will be. It’s still in formation. The idea is to have adoptable rabbits in foster homes rather then a facility if possible.
                                                                                                      So if you know some suitable bunny lovers that could foster, we;d certainly be interested in hearing from them!


                                                                                                    • bunnyfriend
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                                                                                                        How has Earlie been doing?


                                                                                                      • Pandorachik
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                                                                                                        • Kafrn
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                                                                                                            Sorry to bring bad news everyone. Unfortunately Earlie didn’t make it. I’m. It sure what happened, she was doing great one morning and then that night she passed away quickly while JG And I were there. I think she had a happy short life. Sorry to break the BAd news


                                                                                                          • Bumblebunny
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                                                                                                              I am so sorry to hear that Earlie did not make it. You did an amazing job and he was well taken care of for his short life.


                                                                                                            • MimzMum
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                                                                                                                Oh Kafrn, I’m sorry to hear about Earlie. Binky free sweet baby. The whole family is reunited at the Bridge now. ;_;
                                                                                                                You and Jerseygirl did so well by them, they had lots of love and TLC in their wee lives. ((((((((((hugs)))))))))

                                                                                                                I assume the original owners finally got all their bunnies sorted at last? You both did a fantastic job there!


                                                                                                              • FrankieFlash
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                                                                                                                  awh RIP Earlie. I like what MM said about them all being together at the bridge. And you guys did well for them, the best anyone could ask for. Hope you’re holding up okay. I know its hard to put a lot of work into saving something to lose it in the end.


                                                                                                                • Monkeybun
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                                                                                                                    Oh no RIP little Earlie.


                                                                                                                  • lashkay
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                                                                                                                      Sorry about Earlie. Healing vibes…


                                                                                                                    • Pandorachik
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                                                                                                                        RIP Baby Earlie! (((BINKY FREE)))))


                                                                                                                      • jerseygirl
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                                                                                                                          I was watching this again the other day. I’m so glad Kafrn filmed it.  It’s funny, we call her “he” in the video yet Earlie was a girl to us. She was Amazing/

                                                                                                                           Binky Free Sweetheart!

                                                                                                                           

                                                                                                                           

                                                                                                                          Some of the rabbits that are now 8wks old passed away too. *Binky free*  We will probably visit again to check the other 3 and the youngest (last) litter.  The of the eight oldest kits we took into foster care, 3 went to new homes. : ) They’d be about 12wks old now. Boys are separated from girls already as they hit puberty and wouldn’t leave the girls alone.  

                                                                                                                          Fingers crossed for more adoptions.


                                                                                                                        • Monkeybun
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                                                                                                                            Oh it’s so sweet how she would just climb into your hand like that


                                                                                                                          • Beka27
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                                                                                                                              Any update on the owner of the rabbits? Have the rest been altered?


                                                                                                                            • jerseygirl
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                                                                                                                                Hi Beka, I’m sorry you’re question wasn’t addressed sooner. Kafrn doesn’t get onto the forums that often. I’ve also been on less frequently and there was the BB update of course.

                                                                                                                                The rest if the rabbits that reside there have not been altered to my knowledge. Unfortunately I doubt they will ever be. Only the 2 males were done, the rest of the rabbits are females.

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                                                                                                                            Forum RESCUE EFFORTS FOR SHELTERS Our new little bunnies… (Kafrn and JG)