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Adoption Policy

SHRR rabbits are available as indoor companions ONLY and must be lodged within the residential living space of the adopter.   Schools, garages, institutions, places of business, etc. are not acceptable.   Pen enclosure minimum size of 4' x 4' (bonded pairs minimum 6' x 4')  and additional bunny proofed run space required.   (see Housing page for examples).

  1. Primary Caregiver –   When a rabbit is adopted from SHRR, the primary caregiver must be a responsible adult, capable of providing a secure and nurturing environment and prompt veterinary attention when necessary.   Since the  rabbit will be an integral part of the family all interaction with children and/or other household pets must be supervised.   Safe Haven does not recommend rabbits as pets in homes with very young children or dogs.
     

  2. Social Requirements –  Rabbits are highly social beings, thriving in a stable atmosphere of companionship.  Should your adopted companion face long periods of solitude due to changes in the household routine, the introduction of a second rabbit, in most cases,  would offer many mutual benefits.
     

  3. Spay/Neuter – All of SHRR rabbits are either spayed or neutered.  Exceptions will apply only to special needs rabbits.  All rabbits seeking the companionship of a SHRR rabbit are required to have been altered at least one month prior to the introduction process.
     

  4. Returns –   Although we  hope that all SHRR rabbits find forever homes, we realize this is not always possible.  In such cases, any rabbit adopted from SHRR must be returned to SHRR.   Adopters returning a rabbit must understand that space is always at a premium.   We will work to bring the rabbit back into our foster program as soon as possible but the timeframe required is dependent on many factors and can vary from a few weeks to a few months.
     

  5. Exchanges – SHRR will exchange a previously adopted bunny if:
     

a.   The adopted rabbit does not adjust well to his or her new home environment and a judgement is made by the SHRR that it is in the bunny’s best interest to be returned.

 

b.  Bonding.  **Due to RHDV2 concerns all visiting rabbits must be vaccinated.**   We will be happy to help you through the bonding process via phone and video call support.

  • ​Adoption fees –  Current Adoption fees are:

    • Singles – $100

    • Pairs – $175
       

Special consideration will be given to those adopting a rabbit designated as ‘special needs’ whose on-going vet bills are expected to continue above the normal yearly veterinary expenses.   Determination will be made on a case-by-case basis.
 

  1. Adoption Procedure –  Safe Haven Rabbit Rescue strives to ensure harmony between the adopter and the rabbit.   All of the many questions we will be asking help us to understand the type of rabbit that will be the most suitable for you and your home environment.   To ensure the best possible match, the following steps are followed:

a.   Adoption Application – Please complete the on-line adoption application.   Be as detailed as possible.  Once received, someone will contact you, either by phone or email within 48 hours.  If you do not hear from us, our system did not receive the form from your browser, please let us know via email.
 

b.   The Interview – This initial conversation, usually via telephone,  is an exchange of information and ideas.   We would like to learn as much about you, your family, other pets, home and experience with rabbits.    That information helps us suggest which of our rabbits would be most suitable.    If you are new to bunnies, we will answer your questions and provide information so that you will understand the requirements of keeping a bunny healthy and happy.    If you are wishing to adopt a playmate for an existing rabbit, we will also gather information about him/her.

c.   Meeting the Bunnies – Once you have decided which of the suitable adoptees you or your rabbit might be interested in adopting,  we can schedule a visit at their foster home.  All family members are encouraged to participate.  It is required that the main caregiver(s) be present.   Selecting a bunny for someone else is not appropriate.   

 

In most cases, it is best NOT to buy supplies before selecting a rabbit.   Many people are surprised to see how our rabbits live in foster care.   And, since all rabbits are individuals, it is best to tailor your purchases for the specific rabbit depending on size, personality, athletic ability or inclination, chewing tendencies, etc. etc., etc.   Safe Haven requires adopters to use exercise pens (not cages) or small rooms as the bunnies main living quarters in the home.   This article will give you some ideas and we can help you tailor them for an individual rabbit.|

 

d.   Homecoming – When all goes well and the big decision has been made, a representative of Safe Haven Rabbit Rescue will deliver your new companion to your home.   
 

e.  Follow-up –  Adopters are expected to keep in touch with their new companion’s former foster parent; especially during the first few days and weeks as the bunny adjusts to his new home.  Adopters find it comforting to have support and it ensures the bunny will do well in his new home.  Follow-up  Zoom calls  approximately 1 and 2 weeks post adoption is also normal procedure.   And, of course, adopters are encouraged to call or email anytime with questions as they arise.

  Meet Our Adoptables!

 

All questions and inquiries may be directed to: adopt@safehavenrr.org

If you are ready to adopt, please submit our Adoption Application

THANK YOU!!

 

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