In an attempt to allow our rabbits to enjoy a dry, reasonably warm day out in our yard and to give them a chance to get some exercise and to socialize, we let them out in their protective pens, separating the adult males from each other and from the females and their litters. One adult female with an older litter of her own decided she did not like her sister’s younger litter being in the same pen. She aggressively went after a few of the 3-week-old babies and finally succeeded in biting and crippling one unfortunate baby.
Very shortly after, we came across a viral video where a similar thing happened to a baby bunny named Wheelz whose owners found crippled but alive and built him a little wheelchair out of dollar-store materials. This was a very moving gesture and was heartwarming in the hope it inspired. Unfortunately, their bunny ultimately passed away too from his injuries.
The saddest part of the whole thing was some people’s reactions to their video. They blamed Overlook Acres (Wheelz’ owners) for what happened and accused them of cruelty and neglect for allowing their rabbits to freerange and ‘suffer’ outdoors.
They ignored the explanation that an adult rabbit caused Wheelz’ injuries and questioned their character and motivations for keeping rabbits and for trying to keep Wheelz’ memory alive.
I thought for a long time about whether or not to publish this video (as I simply wanted to forget this ugly incident), but felt it should be shared in defense of what the good people at Overlook Acres had said all along. An adult rabbit attacked and crippled their baby bunny through no fault of their own.
People criticize breeders if they keep their rabbits in cages with wire floors (no matter the thickness of the gauge or the fact that it’s ultimately healthier and cleaner for them), yet in trying to do better and offering them the ability to freerange… this too is treated by some as being criminal and neglectful.
Not so and not fair.
So in defense of Overlook Acres, I’m showing this video.
This video is and remains my sole copyright.
Do not repost or use without permission.
