I'm in the research process for book #3. What a humbling experience! Book #3 (a children's book) is the result of working with Dr. Good, and it focuses on his Homeless Pet Clubs. (See June 25 - The Very Good Doctor, Dr. Good)
In doing my research for all 3 books I was forced to take my blinders off. I was forced to go where I didn't really want to go, and look closely at what I didn't want to see. I'm the gal who changes the channel the minute I hear Sarah McLachlan start singing; I cannot bear to look at the injured and abused animals.
However, this book must be written from both my head and my heart, so I put my big girl panties on, grabbed a box of tissues and headed out to pet stores, kennels, humane societies, clinics and shelters.
Yesterday was "bunny" day, dedicated to learning all I can about these soft, fuzzy little gems. I didn't need to go far. The Georgia House Rabbit Society is located within 2 miles of my house. GHRS is the first and only rabbit specific shelter in the SE and only one of a handful in the country...this place is so cool!
Every bunny is welcome there and the place was hopping with dedicated volunteers caring for these helpless little ones. Jennifer spent quite a bit of time with me, passionately providing me with a much needed and appreciated 'Rabbits for Dummies" class. In a nutshell:
Rabbits are considered exotic animals, but owning a rabbit is alot like a cat or dog in that a rabbit is a 10 year commitment. They are a very intelligent and social. They need attention, mental stimulation, toys, exercise, environmental activity, and interaction with people, other rabbits, and other household companion animals.
Sadly, although rabbits are the 3rd most popular pet, many rabbit owners have not educated themselves to insure responsible pet ownership and care, so they give up on him. The rabbit may end up in a shelter,where he may have only 2-3 days to get adopted before being euthanized.
This is where GHRS' mission comes into play. Their mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home abused, abandoned and neglected domestic house rabbits. They spay and neuter, foster and find them great homes. Best of all, they educate the public on the care of domestic house rabbits. This volunteer based, nonprofit, rabbit rescue center was formed in 1996 and has rescued over 3000 domesticated rabbits in need; all made possible by volunteers and donations.
They also board rabbits, and conduct outreach to assist humane societies and owners through publications, phone consultation, and classes. They have a Hop Shop with toys and supplies for these cutie-pies.
They are always available to help if you find a house rabbit out in the wild. These little ones really need your help - they can't survive out there alone. You can easily spot a house because they look like potatoes with legs as opposed to the longer, leaner, rabbits who live on their own in the wild.
This is where is gets really good - Animal House, a reality concept show is going to give the Rabbit Center a much needed makeover, including remodel, expansion and other perks. Talk about shining a national spotlight on the rabbits and the center's efforts toward rescue and education!
Having said all of the above, the most heartwarming thing for me, was seeing how many young teens and young adults were there donating their time, money, and effort on summer vacation. They were cleaning cages, caring for rabbits,and interacting with them. I was fortunate to speak with one young man, and although he wants to be a professional lacrosse player not a vet, he was right there in the middle of it, knowledgeable, dedicated, and having fun. Not one kid was on the phone, complaining to go home, or wait for it... texting!
Please visit www.houserabbitga.com to learn more, and be sure to check out www.animalhouse.tv to learn when our local center will be featured. Filming starts in October. See you then!
PS. Jennifer is a volunteer coordinator, contact the center at 678-653-7175 to learn how you can help.
Now go give someone a hug,
Laura
Ed Christiansen, photographer, does a beautiful job of showcasing the personality of Peanut (pictured below) and others up for adoption. See them all at www.houserabbitga.com Thanks Ed!
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