HAPPY TAILS How to Care for Hares

By Kristi Antley

When choosing a pet, it is a good idea to consider the amount of time, space, money, and attention you are willing to invest. Kittens and puppies make wonderful “furbabies”; however, if you are searching for a pet that is more low maintenance, but also cute, soft, and interactive, a fluffy, floppy-eared bunny may be just right for your lifestyle.

Brandon Fulmer, owner of Southern Gems Rabbitry in Pelion, has been raising, handling, and showing rabbits for over 12 years. She started very young, “I begged my parents for a pair of New Zealand bunnies when I was just 4 years old, and they obliged. However, I learned a hard lesson and had to visit the ER due to a finger bite that broke a vein.” Luckily that painful episode did not reduce her love for rabbits but taught her to approach and handle them in a different manner. Brandon, also a Lead Interventionist for Lexington School District 1, recommends that a child be at least 5 years old and somewhat emotionally mature before buying a rabbit.

“Some bunnies are full of energy and crave interaction; others are shy and prefer to relax in a quiet environment. That is why it’s a great idea to spend quality moments with a rabbit (or any pet) before adopting, if possible.” Brandon has worked with Arabian show horses and many types of elite livestock within professional, competitive realms as well as amateur, educational sessions. Her knowledge and expertise have produced awards in several Best Show of Breeds and Best Opposite Sex categories— she was 10th out of United States rabbit raisers in 2021! Here are a few more of her tips:

• Research first—dispel myths about rabbits (iceberg lettuce causes digestive problems).

• Do not feed your rabbit alfalfa--rabbit feed products are rich in alfalfa, and overuse causes kidney damage.

• Never pick up a rabbit by the neck--this separates skin from muscle which could be painful and promotes flabby skin.

• Scoop up rabbits with confidence, strength, and support--rabbits are afraid of heights.

• For bunnies who do not enjoy being held--flip it over gently, support the spine, and keep it on its back until it is calm. Place your hands on its feet to reduce the risk of being scratched.

• Basic initial accessories: a cage away from other animals, water dispenser/bowl, suitable bedding if preferred (pine is best), and Timothy hay or a similar horse quality Coastal Bermuda.

Southern Gems Rabbitry will have pets ready for purchase in late April or May; follow their social media pages for current information. You can find Brandon and her furbabies at local animal swaps and flea markets as well as selected feed stores in Batesburg, Ridgespring, and Monetta.