Week 313

Once again we are pleased to report that HOT X BUNNY DAY 6 was a huge success. It was a chance to meet old friends and talk about their bunnies and guinea pigs.

Thank you to everyone who supported the day.

I think the photos below say the rest.

Week 314

Thank you to Kelly, a BB Helper,who raised £240.00 from her sponsored swim. This money will help keep the BB rescued furries in the LAP of luxury.

Remember the little bunnies that the cats dragged in ... ?

Well, the Northern Echo News-Paper article will prompt you if you have forgotten.

TWO young rabbits that endured a difficult start in life have struck up a friendship at an animal sanctuary.
The rabbits - one wild and one domestic - are being looked after at Bunny Burrows in Richmond, where they have been named after 1980s police duo, Cagney and Lacey.
The wild rabbit, Lacey, was brought to the sanctuary after being found by a cat in Pateley Bridge at the end of January.
Cagney, a black and white domestic rabbit, was also found by a cat and arrived at the sanctuary in mid-March.
Gwen Butler, who runs Bunny Burrows, said: "It is quite unusual to have a pet rabbit brought in in this way.
"They are both a similar age and seem to get on very well."

Week 315

The television channel, Animal Planet has been visiting Bunny Burrows to produce a program on guinea pigs. After the crew had been chatting to the little piggies at BB, Truffly, a long term resident said she would like to tell her story.

As soon as we find out from the ANIMAL PLANET CREW when the program will be broadcast, we will let our readers know.

Back in week 284, a dog dug up two wild bunnies that were brought to BB. We are so pleased to report that they survived, due to Gwen hand-feeding them and they have found such a good home with John and Marcia Talbot on the Isle of Wight. Here is one of the girls looking for food while the other one keeps the Talbot's distracted !

Another sucess story is Rosie. Back in Week 303,Chris, one of BB's helpers, hand fed Rosie for five weeks before she went to live at BB. We are pleased to say that Rosie found a new home this week.

... and finally ...

Week 316

Sad news this week. Lloyd, Double-Brandy's bunny boy has gone to Bunny Heaven.

Eighteen months ago it was discovered that LLoyd had a cancerous foot and it was suggested by the vet that he should be put to sleep...

Double-Brandy said NO and she had a year and a half more with her gorgeous boy.

Week 317

We have a bumper-bundle of readers furries this week. If you would like to share your little furry with us then e-mail a photo to KAZ. Her e-mail address is: furryhollow@yahoo.co.uk Here is HERBIE from John and Marcia Talbot on the Isle of Wight. Thank you once again for your contribution.

Next is Fern from Furry Hollow in Gateshead.

Chris from BB who gives guinea pig advice has had this little piggie from only a few weeks old. She is called Spice and lived with her sister Taragon who sadly died recently. Spice is coping well on her own.

I'm called Betty-Boo from Preston. My owners are Maysie and Mike Tucker who organise the Photo-Show on Hot-X-Cross-Bunny-Days.

Angela Swan from consett said that Thumper and Teddy came together by a chance meeting. Although two males are not usually compatable, these two boys broke the rules.

... and another little furrie from Furry Hollow in Gateshead is Chellie, who prefers garden plants to dry-mix !

Week 318

Such a shame, poor Tamar has sadly had her eye removed due to e-cuniculi.

When Tamar first arrived at BB it was obvious that she had an eye problem. Gwen took her to the vets and after great debates by the vets it was decided to leave it alone. As time progressed, her eye became worse as it became enlarged. Another visit to the vets resulted in her eye being removed.

The two little buns that the cat dragged in had been getting along fine ... but being two males, which isn't the best combination, finally resulted in some aggression. Cagney, the little domestic bunny had started to dominate Lacey, the little wild bunny. Cagney has been rehomed to two adults, with no children, who were looking for a friend for their lonesome bunny-girl.

Week 319

Gwen is hand rearing EIGHT baby bunnies.

THREE domestic baby bunnies were found DUMPED in a container that would have housed snakes. That's a strange kind of container to have lying around your house unless you keep snakes and feed them on baby bunnies... Hmm.

The other FIVE babies were brought in by a lady who spotted a man who was operating a JCB DIGGER and he had dug up and killed the mother rabbit. He then went on to put her five babies in a skip. This very caring lady climbed into the skip and rescued the babies and a piece of carpet to wrap them in. She then transported them to BB.

Week 320

It is so nice that organisations contact Bunny Burrows and ask them if they would like to take the opportunity to fund-raise at one of their events.

The occasion this time was a BUCKET-COLLECTION at Catterick Market.

Week 321

Precious and I (MOTO) keep asking readers to send us photees of your fab-furries. We want to say thank you to Kelly, a BB Helper who updated us with these pictures of her bunnies, Gizmo, Izzi and young Bumble.

This is George who lives with Lynn Hill from Gateshead. We think he could be the next EGG-CARD guinea pig !!!

Remember the 'CAT-BUNS ?' We have another one ! This little bun was found by a lady, 80 years old, in her garden. She took it to her local vets in Washington, Gateshead, who contacted Bunny Burrows.

Gwen has been hand-feeding another two wild bunnies. These two are now 14 days old and are responding to Gwen's love and care.

Week 322

Sad news, Cherry, one of Bunny Burrow's oldest girls has gone to Bunny Heaven. She had lived most of her life with a handsome Netherland Dwarf called Huckleberry. When Huckleberry died she went to live with a friend called Tobias, another handsome boy but three times the size !

Cherry had some health problems and had been prescribed heart tablets but sadly she died in John's arms.

An update on last weeks cat-bun and the two wild babies ... The little cat-bun, who has been named Gaby, has been responding very well to being hand fed by Gwen and is also eating on its own. It is the size of your hand, we think it could be about three weeks old. It is extremely active and will happily sit on your chest for a cuddle. The two wild babies are also very active and yesterday they met Gaby. The three little buns played happily together in a secure little run.

Long-haired bunnies are very cute but unless they are groomed daily their fur will become matted. If the fur is so badly matted that it cannot be groomed then it would be best if your bunny had its coat clipped. This will save your bunny the risk of fur mites taking up residence in its coat. Below is a photo of a bunny that recently arrived at BB to be clipped. The bunny was sold by a pet shop who said it was a lion-head. As it was very young it only had the wispy bits of hair around its face and ears that lion-heads have ... but as it got older the wispy bits began growing all over the bunny ... It turned out that the bunny was a cashmere ! Good old pet shop ... Got it WRONG again !

Week 323

Remember Gaby, the little furry fighter, she has made such amazing progress. She is no longer 'wobbly' on her paws and as you can see from this photo, she has turned into a beautiful bunny-girl.

She has quickly become aware that there is lots of nice food on the menu at BB and when Gwen tried to remove a piece of her water cress Gaby produced a huge growl !

Week 324

Some of you may have seen Phoenix in previous Charlotte's Diaries, a large grey, loveable, laid back girl who sadly has suffered from horrendous eye problems and also lumps on her face. She developed an abscess on the right side of her face which was surgically removed. At the same time a large amount of fatty tissue was taken from her dewlap, as she was becoming increasingly imobile because of its size, sometimes even tripping over it.

Although she is eating really well, she has since lost the use of her back legs. It has been suggested by the vet that this could have been caused by e-cuniculi that could have been brought on by the stress of surgery.

Unfortunately, her stitches have burst, twice, so she was rushed back to the vets.

Phoenix lived with handsome Kennedy and on Sunday June 24th, he was also rushed to the vets after Gwen found a lump under his chin. He was given two injections and sent home. Sadly, when Gwen opened his pet carrier to put him back in his run he had died. Apart from the lump, Kennedy had been fit and healthy.

Everyone is now hoping Phoenix will be fine as not only has she got to fight to recover from her surgery, she also has to deal with the sudden loss of her boy Kennedy.

Week 325

We start this week on a very sad note. Beautiful Phoenix did not recover from her surgery and on Tuesday it was decided that it was kinder to let her go to Bunny Heaven.

Last week, Gwen answered a phone call from the RSPCA in Derbyshire, asking if she could help out as they had a guinea pig crisis. Well, Gwen being Gwen, if she can help, then she will. So, John and her set off down to Derbyshire. They arrived back at BB with 22+ guinea pigs. We say 22+ because there are at least five pregnant girls.

About two years ago, Buddy arrived at BB and has since become one of the rescues permanent foster buns. When he first came it was discovered that he had a yellow blister-type-spot on one of his eyes. This could have been caused by e-cuniculi. The lenses of the eye was taken out to remove the blister, then put back in place. Buddy’s eye was fine until recently, when it became swollen, resembling a balloon. It was suggested by the vet that the only option was to have it removed. We are so pleased to say he is coping well.

An update on Gaby, or Gaby the Witch ! Gwen has named her the Witch as every time Gwen puts her hand in her indoor house it seems it is Gaby’s mission to remove some of Gwen’s skin, as well as her ‘famous’ GROWL ! (Gaby’s growl … not Gwens.) Maybe she is just protecting her new found friend, Lacey. Remember the wild bunny that Gwen raised from hours old that loves to sit on her head ? We think that Gaby is telling Gwen to keep her paws off him now.

Sadly one of the two wild bunnies that Gaby lived with when she came to BB has died. It was the weaker of the two and it was thought it may have died from coxciddiosis.

You would think that running a Rabbit and Guinea Pig Rescue Gwen would have heard and seen it all ! BUT, the acts of cruelty just seem to be never ending and shocking. This week, a lady was driving through Chester-le-street in County Durham when a group of youths jumped in front of her car. She stamped on her brakes and got out of her car to see what was happening. To her amazement they threw a rabbit at her. This little bunny went to BB. Her front teeth were in an awful mess. Gwen took her to Aunty Francis, the vet, who decided it would be best for them to be removed. On extraction, part of the teeth under the gums shattered, they had obviously been clipped badly in the past. Also, a mass of puss gushed out. This brave bunny had to have her bottom front teeth removed through a cut in her chin to remove all the fragments. To everyone’s surprise, she is now back at BB, eating like there is no tomorrow !

Week 326

Bunny Burrows relies on fund raising events and kind donations. Despite the miserable weather that we have been having, the BB Helpers still turned out for the Hutton Rudby Village Gala. We are pleased to add that it was very successful. Apart from the ever popular Tombola and Jewellery stalls, Mozart and Elgar, the guinea pigs were there to raise a smile.

Week 327

This week Bunny Burrows was invited to The Great Yorkshire Show by the folk that sponsor them with sacks of dry mix ... BURGESS.

Week 328

This week a gorgeous, BIG, placid bunny girl arrived at BB. Yet another stray found by the RSPCA. They thought she could possibly have Myxomatosis but on examination, Gwen soon realized it was just a wet eye. She did however have severe fur-mites, which was resolved with a dose of Strong-Hold.

She then went to 'Aunty-Francis' the vet to be spayed and also a 'Tummy-Tuck.'

Let's meet JUDY from Staindrop, one of Bunny Burrow's Piggy Mummys. For many years Judy has taken guinea pigs, temporarily and permanent for BB. She has a large female colony. Here she is holding one of two brothers, one of which was born blind. Judy has since decided to give both of them a permanent home.

Week 329

A very brave bunny was brought to BB this week by the RSPCA. It was found in the middle of the road. Gwen was quick to name him ... Freeway.
This was no ordinary stray though, poor Freeway had an ear missing and where it should have been was a tiny hole oozing puss. If that wasn't enough, his tail was also missing. These were not recent wounds as skin and hair growth were very well established.
Vets confirmed that these amputations were not consistent with a fight from another animal.
Freeway did however have a recently torn nose. This was stitched when Gwen took him to Aunty Francis, who also operated on the missing ear area to create a sizeable hole that could be cleaned effectively. Poor Freeway was also neutered.
Up to date, he is doing really well.

Remember the BIG placid bunny girl, who was another stray brought to BB by the RSPCA ? ... After she was spayed, treat for severe fur mites and had a tummy-tuck, a handsome Rex Bunny called Winston, from Washington, Tyne and Wear, fell in love with her. So, we are pleased to say she has found a new home. Finally this week, a look at some of BB's permanent residents and Foster-Buns. Here's Terry-Tea-Spoon, a long term resident. His name emerged because he would only eat his food froma tea spoon.

TOPAL, a gorgeous grey lop, who sadly has e-cuniculi, can be so unpreditable but loves playing with toys and enjoys a nap on his back ... or has he TOPALed over ?

Foster Bunny Fern, from Furry Hollow in gateshead only has one back leg but she likes to put her foot up for a quiet day ... Unfortunately, Bopps is her footstool.

Finally, WorBramble and Chellie, also from Furry Hollow have both decided that the garden plants need 'chewing back.'

Week 330

Sadly this week, little Destiny went to Bunny Heaven only weeks after her little wild friend. The two wild bunnies came to BB almost at the same time and snuggled up together straight away. You may remember they looked after Gaby in Week 322.

Week 331

A bunny, who Gwen has named Jessica, was brought to BB a few weeks ago with a badly damaged leg. Her owners were giving her up as they could not afford the vet bill. During a visit to Francis, the vet, it was discovered that her leg was badly broken, possibly from being trodden on. At first it was thought that it may have to be amputated but on closer examination, pins and rods were inserted in the hope of saving the leg. We will keep you posted on her progress.

Week 332

Joshua is a very timid, frightened little boy and it’s not surprising. He was bought from some kind of animal sale in seaham for one pound. The person who bought him failed to pick him up at the end of the day so a woman who had previously bought two bunnies earlier saw him sitting all alone and decided to take him home as well.
Sadly for Joshua he has major dental problems and the woman was unable to keep him. The woman contacted Gwen, who agreed to take him on and whilst he was hopping around it was noticed that he had an awful wound on his back.

Week 333

A man was driving near Hareworth House, North Yorkshire, when he spotted two domestic rabbits running free. He stopped his car to try and catch them but unfortunately, one escaped and the other bunny he found sitting next to a dead guinea pig. He managed to catch hold of this little bunny, who ended up at Bunny Burrows.

Its paws were caked in blood and when they were cleaned up the reason became very clear.
As you can see from the photo below it had 'very overgrown' claws which were stabbing into its feet everytime it moved.

It's almost certain the three little furries had been 'dumped' considering the fact the two bunnies were found with a guinea pig.

We can only hope that the bunny who ran off was caught by another thoughtful driver and given a second chance.

Week 334

This is WOR Bramble from Furry Hollow Woods in Gateshead, she arrived at Bunny Burrows because she was going to be fed to the grey hounds at the Sunderland Dog Track in Wearside. A concerned citizen knew that little bunnies were being bred for this purpose and allerted the appropriate authorities.

WOR Bramble was rehomed, at that time any kind of bunny operation was deemed as 'very high risk' and is still today, depending on the vets experience.
For that reason, due to WOR Bramble's new owners reservations, WOR Bramble was never spayed, resulting in her 'nest-building' on a regular basis, because of 'false' pregnancies.

Because of safer anaesthetics, it is now advised by Bunny Burrows that ALL bunnies are spayed OR neutered, which prevents unwanted babies and can prevent uterinary cancer and the trauma of 'nest building'.

BUT ... WOR Bramble's 'nest building' is not in vain She lives with Badger, her Guinea Pig friend, who really appreciates these new housing units !

Week 335

Myxomatosis is a frightening word if you have a bunny. So, you think, I must get my bunny vaccinated and I can forget about it ... WRONG !

Two recently vaccinated bunnies have produced Myxomatosis symptoms. One that has turned out to be 'full-blown' Myxomatosis in a little bunny called Friday, recently rescued by Bunny Burrows. The other bunny, called Mildred, according to their vet, has had a reaction to the vaccination.

Both bunnies are stable and are receiving treatment of anti-biotics and painkiller, we will update you of their progress.

Week 336

A while ago, a litter of four unwanted babies arrived from the Durham area. Two were rehomed but two still live at BB and have been out promoting the rescue. Ziggy, who has a little face that shows one side black and the other side white and little Stardust is purely white.

Week 337

We all have unwanted aromas around our house, BB is no exception. This is where products such as Airwick Plugins seem like the ideal solution.

With great horror but also relief BB has experienced the down-side of these plugins.

They hadn't read the EXTREMELY SMALL text on the accompaning packaging ... BUT how many of us do ? ... This product was not designed to be used for more than 12 hours at a time.

Unknowlingly, to the dangers of the badly informed information, one of these plugins was left on and caused a fire in a building that housed MANY small furries.

ALL BUNNIES WERE UNHARMED and are suffering NO SIDE EFFECTS.

Week 338

Sad news this week, brave Mildred, who we told you about last week, went to Bunny Heaven. She lived with George, who has sadly been left on his own. George is coping reasonably well as he has other bunnies around him, although they don't live with him. He has lots of areas to explore in the garden which keeps him happy.

On a brighter note ... Friday, the other little bunny with Myxomatosis, has continued to improve.

Many folk think rabbits and guinea pigs would be happy to be fed a few 'scraps' of your left-over salad or vedg ... WRONG ! Guinea Pigs book into Bunny Burrows for their holidays purely for the cuisine. They get this served twice a day.

Week 339

It's always nice to update you with a success story. This time it's about Gaby, also known as the 'cat-bun' because she had been attacked by a cat after being dumped in someone's garden. She was only a few weeks old when she came to BB, unable to walk and extremely weak.

Her progress has been unbelievable as she spends her days with her best friend, Lacey, eating, relaxing and growling at Gwen!

Bunnies and Guinea-Pigs often arrive at BB in some terrible states and this Mum and her Baby were no exception. On this occasion the mother wasn't covered in wounds, bites or cuts, she was covered in BLUE PAINT ! The RSPCA brought her to BB from a family she had lived with because they had allowed their children to paint her blue, to occupy them ! Had they never heard of 'colouring-in-books'?

Thankfully, most of the paint was removed and after being extremely timid on arriving, Mam and Baby are just about out of the BLUE'S and look forward to happier times.

Week 340

Friday, who had myxomatosis and recovered from it had been contacted by The Northern Echo Newspaper to give his account of this life-threatening illness.

Here he is pictured reading his story ...

He told The Northern Echo ... After I was taken to BB I was vaccinated against Myxomatosis but only one week later I was diagnosed with 'full-blown myxomatosis.' It seems that I had contracted this terrible condition prior to my vaccination. Myxomatosis usually results in a slow, painfull death but I had the will to live, BB had taken me in. I knew Gwen would give me a chance. I have now recovered and have increased my weight because I only stop eating to sleep ! Precious and Moto (who write Charlotte's Dairy) advises buuny owners to keep these vaccinations up to date to prevent terrible suffering and possible death in their bunnies. There is also a vaccination for VHD ... What is VHD ? Click on VHD, MYXOMATOSIS and FLYSTRIKE in the menu at the left hand side of this page.

Week 341

Some sad news this week, Terry-Tea-spoon, the guinea pig went to piggie heaven. He had been living at Bunny Burrows for almost five years.

He was brought to BB because he couldn't eat and it was discovered he had spikes on his teeth, which were removed. He was still a little bit reluctant to eat so Gwen put some soft food on a teaspoon and the little furry started to eat it ! Hence his name.

At first he lived with a lovely girl piggie called Athena but after she sadly died he found friendship again with Myrtle and Tuppence, two more little beauties.

Week 342

A few weeks ago, and not for the first time, the RSPCA called upon Bunny Burrows to help them out. They needed homes, not just for a couple of rabbits but 35 !
Yet ANOTHER case of irresponsible owners not considering the welfare of their rabbits.

Here are just seven of the rescued furries, a mother and her six babies. Sadly for the poor mother, she is more than likely to have to go through all this again as the male bunny had been left in with her before they were rescued.

Week 343

Great news this week ... FRIDAY the fighter bunny who survived Myxomatosis has found a friend.
Gwen received a call on WEDNESDAY from Jill and Kaz at Furry Hollow asking if he would like to come and live with Fern. So, on THURSDAY they set off, with Fern, for FRIDAY. It was love at first sight.
He has settled in already. Here is a photo of Fern and FRIDAY on SATURDAY.

WELL ... who would have thought it but during a fund-raising event last weekend the "SPICE-GIRLS" took time out of their reunion tour to lend their support to Bunny Burrows. They have changed slightly since the last time they were on the road ... Hmmm !

Week 344

Bunny Burrows attended an event last weekend called Countryside LIve. It was held at the Yorkshire Event Centre in the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate.

There was lots of entertainment for all ages and BB was invited to educate folk about rabbits and guinea pigs. One of the attractions was the fashion show and BB had its own little celeb, the gorgeous Naomi. She was named after the model Naomi Campbell as she was so thin when she arrived at Bunny Burrows.

Week 345

Because of certain pet stores, and breeders not caring where their rabbits go to, it has become very popular for the larger, or giant rabbits, to be taken on by people who are not aware or educated in the needs of these beautiful creatures.

We would like you to meet JACK, a prime example, who is three foot long. His owner was no longer able to manage him, even though he is a gentle-giant.

Fortunately, because JACK ended up at BB, it was discovered his lashes were too long and were scratching his eye balls every time he blinked. This is a problem with larger breeds.

Thankfully, he has had surgery that will rectify this problem and he will go on to find a friend.

Week 346

A few weeks ago a most unusual, but pretty bunny arrived at BB. He was brought by an RSPCA lady driver, supposedly as a stray.

She had collected him from someone who claimed they had found him wandering. Strangely enough, they informed the RSPCA lady that he was allergic to anything but EXCEL FOOD... Hmmm !

This gorgeous bunny was thought to be REX with a little bit of DUTCH in his breed, but to make him so unusual, he had two rows of three spots on his white furry chest that looked like he had buttoned up his jacket.

Needless to say, he was rehomed very quickly, but only to a family that Gwen knew would look after him well.

The family have since informed Gwen that he has a nature that matches his stunning looks and lies on the MAM of the family and washes her face.

Week 347

To some it may seem a good idea to have small animals at nurseries and schools. Sadly, this is not always the case.

Recently, two bunnies came to Bunny Burrows who had been bought for a nursery school, to supposedly help educate the children in looking after small animals.

After a while it was discovered the two bunnies 'nipped' on occasions.
Fortunately, they didn't nip a child.

The nursery contacted BB as they wanted to SWAP these two bunnies for two gentler ones.
Although BB took the two bunnies in, Gwen refused to replace them.
She explained, anything with teeth can potentially bite and it wasn't advisable for them to be freely touched by children.

This is why BB spends alot of time visiting schools and other organisations to educate folk properly. Gwen only takes small animals with her that she knows are child-friendly, through much experience.

Gwen asked the nursery staff if the bunnies used a bottle or a bowl ...

The staff told her they had both as they closed down the nursery on Friday afternoon and didn't come back until Monday morning.

Are they teaching children that you don't have to bother with your bunny at weekends ? !

week 348

A Christmas fund raising event at Sadbergh in Darlington was rescued by a rescue.

Bunny Burrows was invited along to Sadbergh to set up their stall and sell their fund-raising merchandise. Before the gates were opened to the public, it was discovered that Santa Claus had eaten too many mince pies and his lovely red suit no longer fitted.

BUT ... BUNNY BURROWS came to the rescue ...
Gwen had a Santa-Suit in her wardrobe
(Yes we all have one ... Don't we ?)

John dashed home and saved the day.

AND ... Inset is a picture of Audrey, a BB helper, who it seems will go to extreme lengths to fund raise by wearing an Arsenal Santa Hat, at the same time eating grapes covered in chocolate !

Week 349

Quite a few weeks ago the RSPCA contacted Gwen and asked if BB could help regarding a number of guinea pigs who had become homeless. Of course, as usual, Gwen said, "YES!"

Many were fostered out to BB Foster Homes but two, who were extra large remained 'upstairs' at Bunny Burrows.

Over the weekend, one of the little piggies gave birth. She had four gorgeous babies but sadly one has died. Gwen discovered that one of the other three seemed to be struggling. It was totally lifeless and its nose and mouth was covered in mucus. She cleaned it up and got in touch with Chris, who helps BB on Guinea Pig matters. Chris arrived and asked Gwen for a hair drier. Gwen looked confused but done as she was told. Chris set the hair drier to the lowest setting and gently warmed the baby. After fifteen minutes the little piggy started to move its legs and opened its eyes. It was placed on a heat pad and left in comfort to recover fully.

A few days later, the other guinea pig had babies and wasn't interested in them. So ... Mum number one took on her babies.

Week 350

Sadly this week Leah went to Bunny Heaven. Two years ago she had been given a second chance in life. Her previous owners wanted her put to sleep because they couldn't afford her dental treatment. Eventually BB stepped in and Leah found a new friend in Lazarus, a permanent resident at BB, who had just lost his friend Lilloth.

Leah had developed a polyp, this was removed but after returning home she felt cold when Gwen touched her. Gwen put her on a heat pad but sadly she died just a few hours later in John's arms.

Jerry-Lee who lives with Be-Bop, was rushed to the vets this week as Gwen and John noticed his head had fallen to one side. After the veterinary examination it was discovered that he had a brain tumour. He has been given appropriate medication and he is now back home snuggled up to Be-Bop. He is eating small amounts on his own but Gwen is syringe feeding as well.

After weeks of Gwen stressing to vets that Topol had a problem with his mouth, it was eventually discovered that he had a spike on his tooth. So, off he went for a routine dental. Unlike most animals, rabbits do not have to starved prior to an aneasthetic. So perhaps it would be vigilant of the vet to check that there is no undigested food debris in the mouth. Topol decided to eat a caecotrophe prior to been 'knocked-out' but unfortunately he had not swallowed all of it. Whilst under anaesthetic he inhaled the remainder of it and almost died. After frantic efforts he was saved.

Week 351

Back in week 345, we told you about Jack, a rather large unwanted bunny. He had eye problems that now appear to have been resolved and has found a new home with two of Bunny Burrow's Friends on the Isle of Wight. Jack has told all the bunnies that he is emigrating and they have all asked if they could come for their holidays !!

While Jack is waiting for his new owners to pick him up, he has BEAN spending his days toning up his FOUR-PAK !

Week 352

Good news this week ...
Ned, from the Isle of Wight, is eagerly awaiting the ferry from the main land, as his new friend Jack, who we told you about last week, will be onboard.

Even better news ...
Ned has discovered you can get cans of beans on the Isle of Wight !

The weather forecast for the Isle of Wight has been reported as being very WINDY next week !

Week 353

We told you last week about Jack, he has arrived safely at his new home and was pleased to hear that Ned has found a supply of beans. The beans are not to eat, bunnies don't eat beans, they just like to throw the cans around.

Even more guinea pigs have arrived at BB ... UNWANTED of course !
Two arrived, each in their own box, but Gwen was told that they had been playing together. Yes, well that's fine isn't it ?
Not when one is a girl and the other is a boy !

Then three girls arrived, two aged two and the other three years old ... How can someone give them up after having them for all that time?

We will hopefully have some photos next week for you.

Week 354

Last week we told you about the arrival of some unwanted guinea pigs and promised you some photographs ...

This week the phone at Bunny Burrows has never stopped ringing with folk wanting 'RID' of both guinea pigs and rabbits. Perhaps it's too cold for them to go down the garden to feed and clean these innocent little furries BUT it's probably not too cold to get to the pub !

Week 355

It's always so nice when a furry finds a new home but it's even nicer when the new owners send us a photo to show how they have settled in.

Here are three photos from Gareth and Denise Elvidge from Newton Aycliffe in Co. Durham.

AND ... Diane Shaw from Tadcaster in North Yorkshire sent us this delightful photo of her two bunnies, Maisie and Humphrey.

Week 356

Remember back in week 333 a bunny called Friday was not only dumped in a field but contracted Myxomatosis and went on to survive it. In week 343 he went to live with his new bunny girl, Fern in Gateshead.

It seems his character had been masked by his illness as over the weeks he is becoming a very mischievous bunny.

Last week we showed you a photo of Maisie and Humphrey ... WELL, Maisie's sister, Rosie, spotted it and sent us a photo of her and Murphy who live at The Warren with Maysie and Mike Tucker in Preston.

Week 357

Sorry but we are starting with such sad news.
Topol, an amazing little actor-bunny has gone to Bunny Heaven.

Why was he an actor-bunny ? Well, he reminded Gwen of Topol from 'Fiddler on the Roof.'
He had been unwell for quite awhile and was finally diagnosed as having a tumour. During investigative surgery he sadly died.

Next we have an apology ... SORRY to the many folk who attended the Bradford Championship Show in Harrogate last Saturday and Sunday ... We know lots of folk will have travelled to this venue expecting to see Bunny Burrow's Furries, as BB have been there for the last TEN YEARS ! Gwen was informed her animals were 'not required' this year but she could have a Tombola Stall. However, after spending a huge amount of time at home putting together the tombola prizes then building the stall when they arrived ... they were told to take it down ! WHY ? Because there was another charity there who had a Tombola Stall. It became apparent over the two day event that Bunny Burrows was no longer wanted there by certain quarters. Surely, if like Bunny Burrows, the only important issue is the welfare of the rabbits then everyone should be pulling in the same direction and not stabbing each other in the back. Because of Bunny Burrows obvious commitment to the furries they receive many invitations to help them fund raise, so the Tombola Stall will not be wasted and will be much appreciated somewhere else.

It would seem TESCO are going back to the WAR YEARS and have re-introduced rationing ... WHY ?

Well ... One day last week, Gwen sent John shopping, she has the boy trained ! He pushed his trolley around Tesco, filling it with essential foods for the furries well-being. This was done a few times a week with no problems. However, this week John was stopped at the check-out !!!

Have you been behind someone like that ?
Questions go through your mind ...
Have they stollen something ?
Has their credit card been rejected ?
NO ... John wanted to buy more than SIX bags of watercress.
Apprently, TESCO, had brought a new policy in where buying more than SIX items of one product was not acceptable.

Now where does this end ?
Does this mean you can only buy six apples ?
OR six separate packs of six apples ?
Can you buy six bags of WHITE cabbage but also six bags of GREEN cabbage ... Hmmm ?

Gwen contacted customer service and had the lady at the other end of the phone in 'loops' but before hanging up on Gwen she did give a number in Scotland for further information.

As a result, the issue has now been resolved and all of the Bunny Burrow's furries can eat cabbage on the same night !

Don't even ask about the 'Dinning-Room Table' that will be explained next week.

Week 358

Last week we told you about the crazy world of retail at Tesco. Well, it seems it just doesn't apply to groceries, it has affected the furniture outlets as well.

Gwen decided she needed a bigger dining room table, as it was not only used for eating but also used as emergency accommodation for an overflow of rabbit and guinea pig indoor houses.

The perfect table was spotted at a shop in Wetherby. Four years interest free credit and nothing to pay for the first year. When Gwen and John approached the salesperson, to purchase the table, they were told they would have to pay the first instalment one month after delivery of the table! The delivery of the table would cost £50.

The payment was queried, as was the delivery charge and the shop said they could reduce the delivery charge to £25. Still not totally happy, they decided to still go ahead. Then the crunch came ...
The salesperson asked, "Where will you be putting the dining room table?"
John replied, "In the dining room."
The salesperson replied, "Oh then it will have to be applied with a special coating to protect it, at an additional cost of £50 !"
Needless to say ... Gwen and John walked out of the shop.

Who's dating who ?

Double-Brandy has at last found another friend after beating up half of the neighbourhood ! Lazarus, who sadly lost his gorgeous girl called Leah, has decided that, that 'big-lass' needs a friend.

Another successful partnership is Naomi and Tobias. Although Naomi has also taken a liking to Hannah, BB's King Charles Spaniel.

It's always nice when Bunnies, rehomed from Bunny Burrows, come back on holiday. Here is Harry and Porridge who were adopted by Suzanne in Newcastle. Harry is now ten years old and little Porridge is his older wife, at eleven years. They must be due a telegram from the QUEEN BUN ! (Whoever she is ... Rumours are it's Gwen ! )

Week 359

A woman breeder was visiting a guinea pig forum on the internet, when she came across another breeder who wanted 'rid of' some guinea pigs. She agreed to take them on but when she got the little piggies home, they were all in a terrible state. They were in obvious need of extreme care. She contacted the RSPCA who then told her to get in touch with Bunny Burrows, who, as usual took the sad little group in.

There was a mam and baby and also two older boys and two older girls. They all sadly had either no hair or very little. Not long after arriving, one of the girls gave birth to two babies and the other girl gave birth to five. They are now receiving the care they deserve.

Back in week 345 we told you about unwanted Jack, who, only six weeks later found a loving home on the Isle of Wight with Marcia and John Talbot. They have phoned to say that Jack has now become so friendly he no longer runs away from them. Jack is one of the giant breeds of bunnies and every time he runs down the garden the Isle of Wight tips up !

Many of you may have seen the news about the Riverdance Ferry that ran aground at Blackpool in bad weather. For those who didn't see this, let us update you ... A ship grounded after it was hit by a freak wave, sending thousands of packets of biscuits into the sea, could be stranded for another week because of bad weather. The salvage operation to recover Riverdance from the beach off Blackpool is being hampered by this Scandinavian Looter ! A spokes-person for Blackpool C.S.I said, "We know she is Scandinavian, we have traced her hat back to IKEA !

Week 360

We often get phone calls from folk who want to adopt bunnies and guinea pigs but they are often 'put off' travelling to our rescue, as not everyone is 'local'.

This was not the case with Michelle Taylor from South Tyneside. She was prepared to travel a 90 mile round trip to give an unwanted bunny a new home.

She wanted a friend for her bunny Snowy who had sadly lost her bunny-partner. She arrived at Bunny Burrows and successfully found a friend for her called Perry.

UPDATE ON THE RIVERDANCE FERRY On hearing that the Riverdance ferry salvage operation was going to be cancelled, the Scandinavian Looter managed to persuade the pilot of an RAF helicopter to lower her onto the ferry for more supplies of her favourite chocolate biscuits. As you can see, she has eaten most of her last loot, as she now bigger than she was last week. The reason the pilot agreed to her demands was, she offered him a franchise in her hand knitted Scandinavian Hat Business ... Also known as Bunny Bonnets !

Week 361

Gwen recently visited the Nightingale Hall Residential Nursing Home in Richmond and she took along some of the BB furries. Here are some of ladies who were happy to give them a cuddle.

In week 357 a gorgeous bunny called Topol sadly died and left behind a beautiful girl called Tamar. Gwen had tried to find her a new friend and all attempts failed until Saul came along. Saul came from one of these 'so-called' family visitor attraction farms. The animals there were left to fight amongst themselves and lived in awful conditions. Saul had been attacked and had his ears ripped to threads. He has now been neutered and will spend the rest of his days feeling secure that he will never be attacked again.

Regular readers will know of Maysie and Mike Tucker who organise the Hot X Bunny Day Photo Show. They had a phone call from their vet to say the RSPCA had rang them as they had a baby bunny but they couldn't take it in unless it was injured and they already had twelve rabbits in. Mike was given the phone number of the person who had rescued the bunny, he was an elderly gentleman who had spotted it from his window sitting in the middle of the road. The gentleman and his neighbours caught the frightened little girl. Fortunately after being let down by the RSPCA, Mike and Maysie took the little bun and had her checked over by a vet, at their own expense. She now lives happily with Mike and Maysie and the rest of the Tucker-Gang.

Week 362

Due to the recent wet weather, a landslide opened up a rabbit's nest on a farm near Bishop Auckland. The lady who lived on the farm found the baby and started feeding it with lamb's milk. She rang the RSPCA for advice and was told that Gwen Butler was the person she needed to contact regarding wild babies. Gwen now has the beautiful baby and is hand rearing it with goat's milk.

Another four wild baby bunnies have arrived. Three of them were found in a quarry and the fourth was spotted by a man out walking in the wind. He saw, what he thought was a ball rolling down the hill but after a second look he realised it was a baby bunny being blown about in the wind. Below are two of the bunnies from the quarry playing happily in their cardboard tunnel.

Then along came two unwanted litters. Both with the same story ... The pet shop had sold them two girl bunnies and by a miracle, one of them had babies !? The black babies are 8 weeks old and are already so friendly. The black and white ones are 11 weeks old and decided straight away that they all wanted to friends.

I'm afraid this next story is very upsetting. A lady who already had two terrier dogs, bought two guinea pigs and a baby rabbit. The guinea pigs lived with the little bunny in an indoor house. One night, through the night, the two dogs got into the room where the little furries were and they got inside the indoor house and savagely attacked the two little guinea pigs until they died. The little bunny watched all this and must have been waiting to be attacked next but the dogs left the room. The woman thought it was safer if she found a new home for the bunny !

A little Netherland Dwarf, who had been a family pet for ten years was no longer wanted when they decided to buy a week-end caravan. When deciding what to do with the bunny, the seven year old son suggested that they KILL IT !

Week 363

We are so pleased to report some good news this week. It was our annual Hot X Bunny Day on Sunday March 16th. What a lovely day it was, such a friendly atmosphere.

The photoshow was an even bigger success than last year and the refreshment area rarely had a vacant seat.

The Tombola Stall attracted many people and the Creative Cake Team spent time showing the children how to make little guinea pigs and rabbits from coloured icing then putting them ontop of a bun (the cake type) to take home.

Pets Corner had many visitors who wanted to cuddle the baby rabbits and not all of them were children.

Famous T.V. Vet, Matt Brash made a guest appearance and chatted for more than two hours with lots of folk. He signed copies of his new book called, "ZOO VET."

Week 364

Harewood House, home to the Queen's cousin, the Earl of Harewood, provides a great day out for all the family. It was built in the mid-18th century with money made from the West Indian sugar. This was where Bunny Burrows spent four days educating the public about bunnies and guinea pigs.

Carruthers and Falstaff arrived at Bunny Burrows last August. The child's parents took them to BB because their little girl was not looking after them. Despite the child bursting into floods of tears the parents left the boys with Gwen. They are two gentle boys who were happy to sit on knees at Harewood.

In week 362 we told you about the ten year old Netherland Dwarf boy who was no longer wanted. He has since visited Aunty Frances, the vet, to be neutered and it was found that he had terrible scarring in his mouth due to overgrown teeth that had never been seen to. Surely owners would notice when their bunny stops eating ... But you have to notice your bunny to notice that ! ! !

Another sad story ... This little girl guinea pig, who we have called Daisy, arrived at Bunny Burrows, very under weight and extremely nervous. It was then discovered that the reason she was so thin was she was unable to eat ... Some children had threaded beads onto her front teeth and she was unable to pick any food up ... I can't print what I want to say about the children but I'm sure readers will have a good guess !