10/11/2026
My childhood bunnies were in a hutch outside.
It was the 80s, before the internet and education about proper rabbit care, or before I had a say in the matter. It was a constant stress and hassle protecting them from the weather and heat.
They didn't get the attention or life they deserved. It's an overwhelming sadness and regret I carry every day. Now I try to show others that it's actually SO much easier to have house bunnies.
People keeping rabbits outside often say, "they're just fine" or "they're spoiled" π. Just because they look ok, doesn't mean they are. (Cue the trolls...)
We have had more than 30 cases of hookworms this year. We lost Dippy in July to a botfly. Nearly every bun we rescue from outdoors has ear mites. That doesn't even begin to describe the suffering we've seen.
Even occasional outdoor play is risky, along with the threat of hawks and other predators. Hawks will swoop down and grab a bunny even if you're right there.
Domestic rabbits also start overheating at just 83Β°. And their ears (which regulate their temperature) get cold at 65Β°. They are not the same species as wild rabbits, who themselves burrow underground to escape extreme temps.
Thinking about getting a bunny? There are lots of great bunny space ideas on Pinterest and in the House Rabbits Facebook group.
They want to be part of the family. For their health, safety, and happiness, keep them inside. ππ
πLearn more:
See The Bunny Lady on YouTube
Take the Bunny 101 Zoom class by Southeast FL Rabbit Rescue: https://southeastflrabbitrescue.org/bunny101/
π See our adoptable buns waiting for their furever homes! bit.ly/scb-petfinder