Hello. It's Belinda.
Today's blog is very special.
Back in September, I wrote about a rabbit who was loose in my neighborhood.
My roommate and some other humans got together to capture the rabbit. Turns out the rabbit was extra-sneaky and fast.
But eventually the humans caught her in a trap.
After that, many of you sent stories to me about your own rabbits being rescued outdoors. I had no idea this happened to so many rabbits.
It can be tricky to know how to help. So my roommate wrote an excellent blog called "How to Catch a Stray Rabbit." I hope you will "bookmark" it. Just in case you need it some day.
I'm proud of all those blogs. I know they will help other rabbits and people who care about them.
But someone's point of view was missing.
We still didn't hear from the stray rabbit.
So I would like to introduce you to Eleanor.
My roommate took those photos back in September. I don't like to look at them but I wanted to show you the "before."
There are some "after" photos at the end of this blog.
But first it's time for Eleanor to tell her story.
That's right. I asked the former stray rabbit to do a "collab" for my blog.
I wrote some questions and Eleanor wrote the answers.
Here's what she said:
What’s the strangest thing you encountered while living as a stray?
A big yellow duck that sat in someone's front yard and never moved. He was full of air and smelled like plastic. Kind of weird but he was good company.
What was the hardest thing about living on the streets?
Never getting any good sleep.
Did you have any favorite spots where you felt safe?
There was a fallen dead tree where I spent many summer nights. Underneath parked cars felt cozy too.
How did you keep yourself hidden?
It wasn't easy with my white fur but I had secret nooks and crannies I could disappear into. I only came out early in the morning and late in the evening to eat grass and exercise.
Were you ever scared of people passing by?
People didn't scare me but the loud, clunky metal things they ride in sure did. And there were lots of dogs going for walks in the evenings with their hoomins. Some of them looked at me like I was a snack.
What made you trust your rescuers?
They moved slow and talked in soft voices. And they were very patient with me.
What’s something you’re happiest to leave behind from your life on the streets?
Fleas! So annoying and itchy.
What’s your favorite thing about living with humans?
I make a mess, they clean it up. I eat the food, they refill the bowl.
Do you miss being able to roam wherever you wanted?
Sometimes. There were always new things to smell outside. Now, when the hoomins open up the door for fresh air, I take big sniffs and it reminds me of my days in the wild.
If you could talk to another stray rabbit, what advice would you give them?
Some humans put out the crunchy orange sticks as an offering so you keep visiting them. Don't eat too many. You WILL get a tummy ache.
What’s your favorite treat or food in your new home?
Basil. My mom grows it inside.
Have you picked a favorite spot in your new house?
Under my dad's desk while he's working on the computer. He takes lots of breaks to give me snuggles and pats.
What makes you feel most loved by your new family?
They sit on the floor to eat their dinner with me most nights. It's nice to feel included.
If you could say one thing to your rescuers, what would it be?
The hoomins who dumped me outside when I was very young must not have known that domestic bunnies can't survive on their own. Thank you for bringing my inside where I belong. I love having a family.
Here she is posing for the camera.
Someone's allowed on the furniture.
Salads taste better when you flip the plate.
Taking time to stretch after enjoying some Small Pet Select hay.
I am so happy for Eleanor and her family.
Eleanor's roommate worked day and night to rescue her outdoors. I would like to send a big "way to go" to her for not giving up.
If you'd like to leave a message for Eleanor or her roommates, leave it in the comments below. Or you can email me at Belinda@smallpetselect.com and I'll forward it to them.
Eleanor and I hope you like this co-blog.
Please share it with all the humans in your life. Remind them that rabbits belong inside the house.
Thanksgiving is coming up in a few days. I want to thank all the roommates who help rabbits, especially those who don't have homes.
Sincerely,
Belinda
with special guest Eleanor
Spokesrabbit, Small Pet Select
Belinda@smallpetselect.com
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