There are many new faces that come through CMP throughout the year. Though this is an especially exciting case as we welcome our newest permanent members Marshmallow and Stormy. Marshmallow and Stormy are our new bunny companions and Immediately they have become fan favorites of the students, staff, and families. Born in April these little friends came to us at only eight weeks old weighing barely a pound. They were given to CMP by a local family needing to find homes for their bunnies’ recent litter. Marshmallow and Stormy are sisters from that litter and have been bonded together since birth.
Holland lop bunnies are favorites in the pet community for many reasons that make them excellent companions, especially for children. First off they are simply adorable, characterized by their smaller builds and long floppy ears it is impossible to not smile at them. They are also known for their calm demeanor and enjoyment of human interaction. It is important that these bunnies get lots of hugs and cuddles from each other as well as their human companions. Without proper care they can become stressed or depressed from the lack of attention and love.
That is no worry though at CMP as our loving faculty and students are known to supply endless love and support to those in our school family. We have desired to house bunnies at school for some time for just that reason. Animals such as bunnies are a great tool for teaching empathy and compassion for other living creatures such as plants, animals, and people. They also can be utilized as therapy animals to help calm ourselves and relieve tension. When students (or staff) are needing time to relax and refocus, Stormy and Marshmallow are happy to help.
Bunnies can make a great addition to a school or household’s environment but always with proper planning. Each year in the US rabbits are given as gifts throughout the year and especially around Easter. Though 40% of them will be abandoned or lost within the first year as people begin to realize the commitment needed to care for them. Needing ample space to run and hop bunnies need a large footprint to live in or daily exercise time outside of their pens. Along with that they need a constant supply of food and water, as well as grooming, daily interaction, and a safe place to be isolated in when needed. The day to day commitment can be large and they can live up to ten years. If you are considering rabbits as pets make sure to research extensively and consider the responsibility.
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