Rabbit Book List & Reviews

'Living with a Houserabbit'

By Linda Dykes & Helen Flack



Reviewed by Jay

Linda Dykes and Helen Flack are both founders of the UK Rabbit Welfare Association, formerly the British Houserabbit Association, and were pioneers for setting the standards that are now commonplace for rabbit care and welfare in the UK

Their book, ‘Living with a Houserabbit’ was first published on 2003, when the concept of houserabbits was very much in it’s infancy, as indeed was the idea that rabbits had any care and welfare needs. Things have moved on enormously since their intervention and publication, but still their book stands the test of time, with valuable information that is as relevant today as when it was first published. Most of the information we have about rabbit care and welfare is because of this book, and the research and experience of its authors.

The book is divided into twelve easily readable and digestible chapters, covering the history of the rabbit, owner's responsibilities in regard to its care and it’s environmental, behavioral and social needs. A comprehensive health care guide, written in consultation with Owen Davies BVSc, MRCVS, concludes the book. The book is hugely enhanced with some wonderful photographs that clearly demonstrate the written points, and the information given is well researched and obviously gleamed from a variety of experiences. Much of the content could easily be applied to outdoor rabbits as well. Unlike other rabbit care books, the information provided is simple; it advises how to look after rabbits with the minimum of fuss. Rabbits may be complex, but they are not complicated animals, their needs are quite simple, but they offer potential to develop further. Living with a Houserabbit could not be a better book for a new houserabbit owner.

The first three short chapters start with an interesting history of the wild rabbit, its natural behaviours, its domestication and its place in our modern home. ‘Is a rabbit for me?‘ is possibly one of the most unasked questions when considering acquiring a rabbit – rabbits are far more complex than many impulsive buyers realise, and this chapter enlightens the reader as to the many changes that will have to be made to their home prior to sharing it with a rabbit or two. It offers good advice on a variety of options, including living partly indoors and partly outdoors. The emphasis is on the flexibility of rabbits and their ability to adapt to most environments. Considerations like other pets, allergies, cost and accommodation are succinctly and adequately covered.

The short chapter on preparing for your houserabbit’s arrival emphasises the need to protect your rabbit(s) from the things in your home that are dangerous – cables, plants, furnishings, etc., and how to minimize damage from an animal that is born to chew. The section on different types of accommodation and stimulation is simple, and easy to implement. The next three chapters cover the first few days of your rabbit’s stay, followed by a very thorough care guide, and concludes with a healthy eating plan – all of which are imperative to a rabbit’s mental and physical health and well-being. The information on the first few days is really pivotal to the relationship you and your new rabbit(s) will have, and the chapter guides your actions and explains what your rabbit is doing and experiencing at the same time. As a prey animal, it can be easy to frighten rabbits, and the gentle approach advised here, with patience and observation, will reduce the stress that your rabbit(s) experience from their new environment.


‘Caring for your houserabbit’ is one of the most succinct yet exhaustive guides I have read. So much attention has been given to the writing of this book that a few words contain so much value. The topics covered are now fairly universal, however in 2003, when the book was published, a lot of them would have been unheard of. The thing that sets this care section aside from others is the amazing photographs that accompany it, all of which pertinently and effectively demonstrate the information provided, as well as any video could.
The chapter on healthy eating addresses the importance of a correct diet by explaining the complicated process of rabbit digestion, and the relevance of particular foods to that diet. Health problems, such as obesity, created by a poor or inadequate diet are also given concise explanations and your role in preventing them is emphasised.

The following three chapters deal in great depth with the psychology of your rabbit(s) in relation to their happiness, their needs and their relationship with you, their keeper.

'Rabbit behaviour’ eloquently describes how your rabbit(s) communicate with you, and with each other, through postures, ear positions, and occasional vocalisations. The authors then go on to explain possibly the biggest challenge to a houserabbit owner given the destructive animal that is a young houserabbit, and offers remedies, preventative measures and alternatives to limit the damage. This is important information, as many houserabbits can end up in rescue because of their gnawing tendencies. ‘Training & troubleshooting’ deals with the common problems that houserabbits can present, and how to train your rabbit(s) with positive reinforcement, to live more happily in your home. Underpinning this is the understanding of why your rabbit behaves in the ways it does and what it responds to, with a view to changing its behaviour. The chapter presents some testimonials from owners who have been through the process, and who share their own stories, mistakes and successes.

‘The social animal’ explores the potential for the different relationships your rabbit(s) will form with each other, you, your children and other pets and how to make these work. In doing so, you reduce the potential for stress and harm that these relationships can bring. There are some beautiful pictures of rabbits living in harmony with cats and dogs, and I learned that cats and rabbits communicate in a similar way. The chapter also discusses how to introduce different species to your rabbit(s) and also has some personal testimonials.

The small chapter, ‘Fun time’ opens new doors to expand your knowledge and connections in a variety of ways, through the internet, showing, breeding, rescuing fostering and even discusses using rabbits for therapy.

The book concludes with two chapters on health and illness – written in consultation with Owen Davies BVSc, MRCVS – which cover the majority of common ailments that bunny owners are likely to encounter. Topics that are rarely covered in other books of this kind are the importance of getting the right vet, and how to get the most from your relationship with them. Basic home care is broad, and covers a variety of common procedures from syringing, post operative and nursing care, and administering medication. The chapter ends with a sensitive and educated approach to the end of your rabbit’s life and the options you have about euthanasia.

Finally, the ‘Nose-to-Tail health guide’ is exactly that. It starts at the nose and moves through the body, explaining the various health conditions that your rabbit is susceptible to. Each part of the body has its own warning signs, and is followed by explanations of their possible problems. Given that rabbits can become very ill very quickly, this is perhaps the most important section in the book for a novice owner; it is thorough, informative, and simple to understand.

Summary
For indoor or outdoor rabbits, 'Living with a Houserabbit' is so considerately written that whilst it is more relevant to houserabbit care, there is plenty of good quality and relevant information for all rabbit owners. Living with a houserabbit, especially a young one can be very difficult if not managed well, and the book gives relevant emphasis to the most common problems and offers a wide scope of preventative measures that will also help your relationship with your rabbit(s), as well as protecting your home. A novice rabbit owner will be armed with as much information as they need to embark on the somewhat unpredictable journey of houserabbit care, and the more experienced owner will certainly learn something from the book. Every piece of information is relevant and packed succinctly into a thoroughly enjoyable read!

This review was originally published in Hopping Mad! Bunny Magazine - June 2011. The original can be viewed HERE
Produced for Hopping Mad! bunny magazine - Copyright © HappyHoppers Forums UK - June 2011 - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED