Rescue Tails / Nothing beats being given a second chance!

By Tammy Fox, Executive Director, Florida Keys SPCA

When Quigley and Queenie were brought to the shelter, it didn’t sound as though they had been viewed as members of the family.  Their names, ages,  and where they came from were not recalled. The only thing we learned is that they were a child’s pets, had already had one litter before they were separated, and now were no longer wanted. As most rabbit rescue people will tell you, this is a familiar story. 

 Both rabbits showed some serious cage aggression so we moved them out of their small cages and put them in large runs where they had more space to move and it didn’t take long before their behavior changed, trust built, and they became much friendlier and interactive. Both rabbits needed to be fixed before adoption, which typically goes well when done by an experienced rabbit-savvy veterinarian. But sometimes there are unforeseen problems that affect the outcome.  It turned out that Queenie had some major pre-exisiting conditions that could not have be known beforehand and she didn’t survive. Luckily, Quigley sailed through his surgery without missing a beat.

Sue and her daughter Samantha were thinking that a bunny might be a good addition to their family and came to the shelter to look. Quigley’s charm captured Samantha’s heart. But even better, Quigley seem to take an immediate fancy to Samantha, which is unusual, since rabbits are curious but typically take time to trust strangers. There was some magic happening between the two of them!  Our adoption process always involves education and guidance on appropriate housing, etc. This family was so open to learning and eager to provide whatever Quigley needed to be healthy and happy, so it wasn’t long before our boy packed his bags and headed home. 

These days Quigley, aka BunBun, spends his days lounging on the bed watching TV, or demanding dinner be served by tossing his food bowl in the air when he gets hungry. Needless to say, he keeps his family smiling! Quigley is one very lucky bunny to be living with such a kind and caring family, which is what we wish for all rabbits. Sue told us recently “I’ve had dogs, cats, birds, you name it! But honestly, rabbits are the overlooked pet and have so much love to give. They have more personality than anyone can imagine.” We totally agree and can’t understand why our Key West shelter, like so many other shelters and rescues across the country are filled with adoptable rabbits, just waiting for people like Sue and Samantha to walk through the door and give them a lifelong home!

[livemarket market_name="KONK Life LiveMarket" limit=3 category=“” show_signup=0 show_more=0]