Beaverton Rabbit Rescue Project

Metro Portland area: A vacant lot in a heavily traveled and populated area is the home to colonies of feral and abandoned domestic rabbits. This is causing concern for the welfare of the rabbits and the surrounding neighborhoods. A community planning meeting regarding rescue and relocation of these rabbits was held August 17, 1999.

Due to centuries of domestication, our domestic rabbits have lost the ability to survive in the wild. Many of these rabbits will lose their lives to predators such as coyotes, hawks, raccoons, and domestic dogs and cats. When they become ill, there is no medical care. The wet and cold winters also claim the lives of many rabbits, especially the very young. Because of the close proximity of busy streets, a number of the rabbits will be hit by cars. Even with all the dangers, the rabbit colonies will continue to grow due to the prolific breeding for which rabbits are known.

How do these rabbit colonies start? Uncaring and irresponsible pet owners have illegally deposited these small creatures to fend for themselves. These rabbits procreate, while more pet rabbits are being dumped. The colonies are a combination of abandoned pets and babies who have been borne by those abandoned.

The rescue effort is underway staffed by members of local animal rescue organizations and community volunteers. Here are some of the ways you can help:

• Volunteer to help with rehabilitation. This is a period of two weeks immediately following the spaying/neutering of the rescued rabbit. Cages, food, and medication will be available for those who are unable to furnish these supplies themselves.
• Volunteer to foster. After the rehabilitation period has ended, the rescued rabbit will need a temporary home in which to live until an adoptor is found. Cages and food will be available for those unable to furnish their own.
• Adopt a rabbit. An abandoned domestic rabbit will quickly become used to living in the house, using a litterbox, and socializing with the humans who reside in the home. Help is available for first time rabbit owners and others seeking advice.
• Donate supplies. The rabbits and those helping them require cages, food, dishes, pens, and other miscellaneous items. Live traps can be donated or loaned.
• Donate services. This would include veterinarians agreeing to provide spays, neuters, medicine, or other medical services. You may be able to provide other types of services, such as transporting supplies to rehabbers and fosterers or cleaning donated cages.
• Donate money. This is an expensive undertaking, and your contribution is tax deductible.
• Spread the word. Help the rabbits.

For more information or to let us know how you can help:
By Phone: (503) 617-1625
By Email: rabbit8@teleport.com

Donations can be sent to:
Oregon Humane Society
P.O. Box 11364
Portland, OR 97211

Please make your check out to "Oregon Humane Society (OHS)" and write "Beaverton Rabbit Rescue Project" on the memo line.

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