Exodus
500 rabbits from Reno relocate to Michigan
What a party! Nearly 300 people showed up to greet the new arrivals at the Great Lakes Rabbit Sanctuary --- all 500 of them. The rabbits came from the Reno Rabbit Rescue Ranch and boy, were they happy to get to their new home in Michigan.
Great Lakes Founder Lake Jacobson said she enjoyed watching the bunnies get acclimated.
“Upon arrival, many went immediately outside into their new large yard,” she said. “You could almost hear them talking to each other, saying, ‘Wow, look at this place! There’s food, water and four-foot high grass to play in and look…more over here…’”
Several volunteers prettied up the place for the new residents. They built seven-foot high teepees out of corn stalks, created a rabbit activity area and put up a bounce house for children. They even set up a bunny spa, where the furry creatures enjoyed toe clipping (well, not so much), grooming (hey, this is OK) and massages. (Yeah! That’s the ticket!)
Best Friends Bunny Manager Debbie Widolf
Shown above said the biggest show of all took place in the open grassy area. Hundreds of rabbits scurrying around and toppling all over each other made for non-stop entertainment. There was even a traffic jam, as cars slowed to take in the spectacle from the street.
“You know, it was just great seeing the bunnies happy being bunnies,” said Debbie. “I could tell this is a great fit for them.”
Lake said they prepared to make it a great fit --- the sanctuary increased its population six-fold.
“This was a HUGE change for us and a lot of work,” said Lake. “But it’s a dream come true to be surrounded by 500 bunnies.”
With all the new furry friends burrowing down for the winter, Great Lakes Rabbit Sanctuary could use some help. Sixfold would be nice… To find out more, call 734-461-1726 or log onto www.rabbitsanctuary.org.
Written by Amy Abern. Photos by Great Lakes Rabbit Sanctuary.