Jennie makes sure that everything is "legit"!
Before you get a rabbit
Even if you have had a rabbit in the past, so many new things have been learned just in the past 5 years. MCRS encourages potential adopters to read all they can about what to expect from living with a rabbit – their common behaviors, dietary needs, grooming needs, how to handle them safely, health concerns, housing options, the importance of toys, and even tips for dealing with challenging behaviors.
What are the requirements for adopting a rabbit from MCRS?
- A completed application.
- An initial interview, usually via telephone, with our Adoption Coordinator.
- All adult members of the household must agree to the adoption.
- Any current rabbits must be spayed/neutered unless the rabbit is not sexually mature yet or your vet will state that there is a medical reason that the rabbit should not undergo surgery.
- Any other pets must be safe for the rabbit (well trained, separate housing, or similar).
- Any minor children must be mature enough to interact appropriately with the rabbit.
- The adopted rabbit must have adequate run time in the new home.
- In some cases, a home visit may be scheduled.
- If you are interested in bonding the new rabbit to a current rabbit, at least two "dates" are required, one of which will be in your home.
- If the adopter rents, a letter from their landlord will be required at the time of adoption.
What is the adoption process?
- Get an adoption information kit. If you are in one of the PETCO stores participating in our adoption program, ask a PETCO associate for an adoption packet. Otherwise, download an adoption kit at the bottom of this page.
- After you have read the information, fill out the application and fax it to MCRS at the number listed on the application. If you are planning to bond the foster rabbit to your own rabbit(s), please be sure this is noted on your application.
- An MCRS Adoption Representative will contact you within 48 hours to discuss your application, answer any questions you may have, and to help determine which rabbit(s) might be best suited to your situation.
- Once approved, a MCRS Fostering Representative will contact you within a few days to schedule a time for you (and your rabbit, if applicable) to meet with MCRS rabbits. If the rabbit you are interested in is residing at a PETCO store, the adoption will likely be completed in just a few days. Most adopters will attend one of our adoption events, currently scheduled every 3 weeks. Assuming that all has gone well, you will complete the adoption contract, pay the adoption fee and take home your new companion that day!
- If you are bonding rabbits, first dates will generally occur during a MCRS adoption event. A second date will usually occur at your home and the adoption will be completed at that time.
The Minnesota Companion Rabbit Society is an all-volunteer group and the adoption process can take a couple of weeks to complete once we receive your completed application. If you are interested in adopting a rabbit, download an adoption kit at the bottom of this page. Thank you for your interest in adopting a homeless rabbit!
How much is the adoption fee?
The adoption fee for each rabbit is $75. This fee is non-refundable because adoption fees paid to the Minnesota Companion Rabbit Society help to cover costs involved in caring for a rabbit prior to his/her adoption. Each rabbit receives a veterinary exam, spay/neuter surgery, and a microchip ID. In addition to daily care, foster rabbits benefit from socialization & litterbox training during their stay with Minnesota Companion Rabbit Society.
The following is a conservative estimate of the average costs involved in preparing each rabbit for adoption:
Veterinary exam: $35
Neuter/Spay: $100-$200
Microchip ID: $25
Fostering Expenses: $75 (average 3-4 month stay)
Total Expenses: $235 to $335 -- But your adoption fee is only $75.00 per rabbit!
Download an adoption kit
Complete an adoption application.
Once you have completed it, fax it to the number at the bottom of the application form. Within 48 hours of receiving your application, one of the human MCRS volunteers will contact you to discuss your application & answer any questions you might have about having a rabbit in your home.
Below is some information on rabbit behavior and care that the MCRS includes with every application:
- Information on our adoption fee.
- Frequently asked questions, what to expect when you first bring a bunny home, and resources for more information.
- A checklist of supplies needed for a rabbit.
- Information on finding a rabbit-savvy vet - many veterinarians have received little or no training about rabbits, so it is important to find one that is knowledgeable before you have an emergency.
- Bringing Home a new Rabbit - This one-page sheet describes what to expect when you initially bring home a new rabbit. The first week or so will be different while the rabbit adjusts to their new surroundings.
- Resource List - A list of additional sources of information on companion rabbits - websites, books, local MCRS representatives, email lists and more.
- A list of vegetables and fruits that are safe to feed most rabbits. Includes a list of foods to avoid as well."
