Fostering Rabbits

Fostering Rabbits

HRC IS LOOKING FOR FOSTER HOMES   2022
We have been receiving more calls to take in abandoned rabbits, so we are looking to expand our current foster network. The only way we can save abandoned bunnies is with great foster homes. We are looking for homes in the Springfield, MA/Hartford, CT area that can foster a rabbit or pair until they are adopted. Please consider opening your home and fostering a wonderful rabbit!  For more information contact us at info@hopline.org or 413-439-7HRC.

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The only way we can save abandoned bunnies is with great foster homes. We are looking for homes in the Springfield, MA/Hartford, CT area that can foster a rabbit or pair until they are adopted. Please consider opening your home and fostering a wonderful rabbit! 

For more information contact us at info@hopline.org  or 413-439-7HRC.HRC provides almost everything needed to care for a foster rabbit — an exercise pen and dog crate set-up, litter boxes, dishes, wood stove pellets, food pellets, hay, infant gas drops (first aid for gastro-intestinal slowdown) and toys.  Upon occasion, grocery store gift cards are distributed among the foster network for the purchase of greens, though this is a “bonus” dependent upon the generosity of our members and supporters.  For the most part, our fosterers provide daily greens, grooming and…love.  When an appropriate adopter emerges, an HRC Board member comes to the fosterer’s home at a mutually convenient day and time to conduct the adoption.

Some people may believe they can’t foster because they’ll become too attached to the rabbit. This may very well be the most difficult part of being a fosterer!  While we do give our fosterers “first right” to adopt their foster rabbit, it is imperative that our fosterers must love rabbits enough to let their foster rabbits go to the good homes we find for them — the rabbits at the shelter depend on the fosterers’ strength and resolve not to adopt a foster rabbit.  A seasoned fosterer sees the face of the next shelter rabbit in that of their current foster bun, and feels satisfaction and anticipation when their foster bun is adopted, knowing they are about to save another life.

FOSTERING OVERVIEW

Being an HRC foster care provider is very rewarding.  If you are interested in becoming a fosterer, here is a brief outline of what to expect:

Pre-qualifying:

  • You will be interviewed by an HRC volunteer.
  • An HRC volunteer will visit to conduct a site inspection.
  • You must be an HRC member in good standing.

Once you are approved:

  • If needed, HRC will provide a complete set up (typically a dog crate xercise pen, litter box, feed/water bowls, etc.)  which must be returned to HRC when no longer needed or utilized.
  • You will be entitled to receive donated goods such as hay, food pellets, paper towels, and bath towels for the care of your foster rabbit.

Key Responsibilities:

  • The rabbit’s living space must be kept clean, including proper changing and cleaning of the litter box with white vinegar
  • Fresh pellets, unlimited high-quality hay, water and vegetables must be provided daily.  Minimal treats should include fresh fruit. Refer to the list of acceptable vegetables and fruits for rabbits.
  • You must never use harnesses, leashes or a collar on your foster rabbit.  Do not travel with the rabbit unless necessary.  Ensure the safety of the rabbit at all times.
  • Your foster rabbit must be allowed plenty of exercise out of the pen every day. The rabbit should also be crated for the night (at least 6 hours).
  • Do not allow nose-to-nose contact between your own pet rabbits and your foster rabbit.
  • You will bring your foster rabbit to an HRC-approved veterinarian if medical attention is needed.
  • You will need to be available to potential pre-qualified adopters to answer questions and/or allow them to come and visit and/or adopt the rabbit.
  • You may decline to release your rabbit to a potential adopter if you have a major concern regarding the placement.  This must be reported to an HRC Officer immediately.
  • Once a rabbit is adopted, the cage and all accessories must be cleaned with a bleach solution.

Please join us and become a fosterer for a rabbit in need of a home. Contact us for more information.