Disposable Rabbit Mentality
In light of yesterday's loss, it's important to address one aspect of rabbit advocacy.
As a rescue, sadly we see a lot of loss. We share a snippet of this with the public to increase awareness about the damaging effects of abuse/neglect/dumping as well as the damaging effects of irresponsible breeding and the genetic disorders/diseases that afflict rabbit companions. Through sharing, we hope to increase standards of care and veterinary care as well as show that rabbits can live very long lives when nurtured correctly.
On other side of that coin, there is a fragility and need of specialized care when having companion rabbits. Not only can their environment, care habits, and diet reflect their health but also the genetic pool is very relevant. Many rabbits come from backyard inbreeding and generations of irresponsible breeders encouraging brachycephalism and other genetic issues of the teeth, heart, bones, ears etc. To date, these factors have contributed to the perception of rabbits as disposable commodities. When rabbits are bred in vast numbers and their deaths are perceived as common without much thought, it devalues their lives, reinforcing the idea that they are easily replaceable and not worthy of individual care.
The domestication of rabbits as pets has played a role in shaping public perception. Rabbits are often marketed as low-maintenance pets, suitable for children, and easily replaceable. This has led to a significant number of rabbits being abandoned/abused/neglected when owners realize that caring for a rabbit is more demanding than they anticipated.
To address this issue, it is crucial that we re-evaluate our relationship with rabbits, and all animals for that matter. We must prioritize their health and well-being over aesthetics or productivity, recognize their intrinsic value, and commit to more ethical practices in pet companionship. Even adjusting our terminology from "ownership" to "companionship" is vital in changing this perception.
Changing this mindset will require education, awareness, and a collective effort to treat rabbits—and all living beings—with the respect and care they deserve. By doing so, we can begin to repair the damage done and create a future where rabbits are valued as sentient beings, not disposable commodities.
