Volume 5, Issue 3 - August 2005

From the Mailbag:
Adopt a Bunny If You Really Want to Understand Life
by Kerry Endsley

It has been three days since we loss our precious Sherman. I thought that I should share Sherman's story with you. In case, anyone doubts the value of a bunny as a pet.

Sherman was a rescue bunny and had a tough start in life. During his first year he was not neutered. His living space alternated between a cramped cage and a small muddy outdoor pen made with plywood sides; much like solitary confinement in a prison. The owner had several large dogs on the property that were constantly barking and trying to harm Sherman. He had no mate and very little interaction with people. He did not have proper nutrition and his underside was in terrible condition from the filth and water that he couldn't escape. We were told that this rabbit was vicious and would be put down or released into the woods if we didn't take him immediately. Needless to say, we took him.

After several months, he was clean and healthy. Despite all the mistreatment in his early life, despite all the environment adjustments, despite medical problems (such as his being prone to head tilt and stasis) and the loss of his rabbit companions, Sherman became one of the most personable bunnies I have known. He had every reason to hate humans, but he didn't. He had every reason to distrust humans, but he didn't. He had no reason to socialize with humans, but he sought us out for attention.

You always knew where 15 pound Sherman was because, when he hopped, it sounded like someone threw watermelons down the stairs. He had limited vision and was clumsy, but in his own way, he was the most beautiful and graceful rabbit that I could ever imagine.

When Beverly lost her father, Sherman would nuzzle her feet under her desk and helped her to get through the grief. Last year, when I lost my father, somehow Sherman gave me the strength and wisdom to understand and move forward. When Bev and I lost our young grandson recently, Sherman reminded us that life is fragile and precious.

He fought for life like a king and taught us valuable lessons about people, bunnies and the relationship between the two. The staff at the Colorado State University Veterinary Clinic said that they have never witnessed such a strong and courageous rabbit and that Sherman persevered and endured medical treatments that most dogs or cats could not tolerate. He kept his head up as long as he could and maintained his dignity right to the very end.

Sherman was as much like a person as a rabbit could be. When we lost him, I thought my heart would break and that I would just give up on rabbits; after all, men aren't supposed to care about little furry animals. Then I thought of what Sherman would do in my situation. I chose to suck it up, rally my strength and help the next bunny I encounter in the best way I know how.

Sherman was a great inspiration and teacher. I stop and smile every time I pass by one of his favorite spots. I thank him for helping me appreciate life to the fullest and for all that he did, not only for me, but for Beverly, the HRS educators, the bunny humans and all the other rescued bunns in need of a good home.

There is nothing wrong with a dog, cat, bird or any other kind of animal for a pet, but if you really want to slow down and understand life, adopt a bunny (or two or 12). Be patient, and they will show you everything you need to know.

I'm going to miss Sherman tremendously and look forward to seeing him again on the other side.