Safe Haven Rabbit Rescue Inc.
Our Mission
Since 2003, Safe Haven Rabbit Rescue has provided a home-like atmosphere for abandoned, abused, and neglected domestic rabbits. Safe Haven received federal 501(c) 3 designation in February 2004, and on March 20, 2008 was classified as a public charity exempt from Federal income tax under section 501 (c) 3 of the code.
Our mission is:
To rescue abandoned, stray or abused rabbits, and find permanent indoor homes for them with caring owners.
To educate the public about the unique qualities of rabbits, and to educate rabbit owners and humane societies as to the care and maintenance of rabbits.
To promote and raise awareness of rabbits as indoor companion pets.
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 considered acceptable. Additionally, the rabbit(s) must have space for play and exercise.
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 young children.
a. Adoption Application – Please complete the on-line adoption application. 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 will set up an appointment for you to visit! Most visits are scheduled during weekend hours. 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. The reaction of animal to person needs to be observed and can often be the deciding factor. If your bunny is selecting a playmate, he/she will be introduced to each candidate so that we can determine compatibility potential. In most cases, it will be your bunny who decides who he/she wants to take home.
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. This provides the adopter time to get things set up and finish last minute bunny-proofing if need be. It also allows us to see where our treasured charges are going and to be assured that all will be well.
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. A follow-up visit approximately 4-6 weeks post adoption with a complimentary nail trim (and instructions, if needed) is also normal procedure. And, of course, adopters are encouraged to call or email anytime with questions as they arise.
