Rabbits…What’s in it for You?

When I meet someone new, as a matter of course it often comes up in conversation that I raise rabbits and have done so for the last 43 years.  “Rabbits, huh?” is a common response.  Often followed by, “How in the world did you ever get into that?”

On that line, I thought I’d jot down a few of my thoughts and perhaps ask my readers, “Why do YOU raise rabbits?”

For me, working with rabbits satisfies a deep desire to work with living things.  I love animals.  I have many interests, but there is something about rabbits…

My son, Devan used to proclaim that rabbits just sat there, wiggling their noses.  Such boring creatures! He felt that way until he took over caretaker duties for me when I was having some health issues.  Surprise!  Rabbits actually do respond to their caretakers with devotion and have the capacity to grasp our hearts. Which brings up a dilemma for many…

Beyond their role as pets,  rabbits are also providers of food (human and other animals); their fur can provide the means to create useful articles and clothing.  They contribute to the development of medicines, and valuable scientific information. So…how do I reconcile caring for these delightful creatures on a daily basis – providing food, shelter, anticipating new litters, watching the playful antics of the furry kits, and then on the other hand, selling a good number to the processor or wildlife shelter where their life comes to a sudden, abrupt end?  That’s a toughy to be sure. 

I can only speak for myself, but rabbits, as a prey animal, are thus fulfilling their ultimate purpose.  It is a noble purpose and I respect it.  The American Indians had it right in my opinion.  Their careful and reverential use of animals for food – a cosmologists view where intuitive conclusions about the nature of God, the universe, man, nature and interrelationships twined imperceptibly together.  The animal was thanked for giving its life to serve man.

Animal Rights folks will heartily disagree.  That’s their privilege.  It is my privilege to continue to enjoy these wonderful creatures and my duty to care for them and respect them while they are in my care.