Last updated: 22 Jul, 2019
Published on: 14 Jun, 2016
A bunny with baggage is what Candy was looking for
Most people don’t look for a companion with “baggage”, but that’s exactly what Candy wanted.
“I wanted to adopt the oldest, unhealthiest, least adoptable bunny there was. It didn't matter to me whether they were cuddly or fluffy, I wanted the bunny that needed me the most, to give an unwanted rabbit a home where he could spend the rest of his life - whether it be two months or two years. As long as he’d have a happy ending, that’s all I wanted.”
How do you find a pet who really needs your help? Candy knew straight away.
“When I knew it was time for a bun, I went straight to PetRescue. I found Little PAWS Rescue under the Rescue Directory. I messaged Little PAWS to see if there were any special needs, older bunnies needing a forever home. That’s when they told me about Monty. The moment I read their email I knew he was the one.
“He was eight years old, needed an injection every two days for the rest of his life, and had been abandoned. I knew instantly he was perfect. Monty needed a loving forever home where he would be spoilt. They sent me some photos of his beautiful little face, and I knew I had to meet him!”
The day Candy’s life changed forever started with a trip to Bunnings.
“The day met Monty was the day before Fathers’ Day. My mom and I were at Bunnings, trying to find something for my dad. I still remember the nervous excited feeling I got when I received the email on my mobile saying Little PAWS would be free at 2pm that day. Straight away, mom and I abandoned our shopping spree and headed off to Little PAWS.”
For Candy and Monty it was love at first sight…
“The moment Renae passed Monty to me, and I looked into his eyes, I knew that I could never ever let him out of my arms. His fur was so soft and his little nose was twitching. It was as if Monty knew what was happening. That instant connection we had gave me butterflies. I was so excited about what he would bring to our family.
“Bringing Monty home was a surreal moment. I always wanted my bunny to be a free-roaming house bunny. We would never make my brother sleep outside so why should the bunny?
"We let him out of the box and he looked around, smelling everything. My dog walked in and without a moment’s hesitation the two of them were kissing and playing chasey. I felt so happy and content knowing this was the first wonderful day of the rest of his life.
“For the first few weeks, I slept on the floor of my room and snuggled with him. I wanted him to feel comfortable and loved at all times.
"I ordered him stairs so that he could get on and off my bed easily. The first night that Monty hopped up his stairs onto my bed was one of my favourite moments with him.
"Not only did he need me, I needed him. He has slept nuzzled into my neck every night since. Waking up every day to a fluffy, floppy bunny curled up with me is so precious.”
Monty has helped Candy enjoy the little things in life too.
“He gets joy from such small things - a piece of apple (his favourite) or being carried around the house.”
Monty isn’t just a cuddle bunny; he earns his keep too!
“Monty has helped out tremendously with our fostering for rescue groups. He mothers the bottle feeding kittens, often grooming them while they suckle his ears, tummy and toes.”
But to Candy, most of all...
“Knowing that I have changed his life by adopting him is the most special thing. Giving a special needs pet a second chance and letting them feel true love is one of the most rewarding things you can do in this world.”
If you would like to give a senior or special needs rabbit a loving home for the rest of their days, we have many on the PetRescue website who are looking for love today. Start your search at PetRescue.