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All we knew about the little bunny who was left in our Night Drop Box was that his name was Frank, and he had an injury that prevented him from using his hind legs.
That was in the Fall of 1995, and until then, most of the sick, injured or abused rabbits that came to the Alameda Animal Shelter were simply euthanized to prevent any further suffering. But one of our volunteers took little Frank to Dr. Kent Rosenblum for an evaluation. It was determined Frank had a broken vertebrae, but with proper medication and rest, followed by a period of rehabilitation, we might be able to help him.
And so began our Rabbit Medical Program and Rabbit Rehab.
The program received a big boost in the form of a generous donation from the Petco Corporation, which allows us to provide major (or sometimes, minor) veterinary care for needy rabbits. Please keep reading to find out how you can help!
We are fortunate that the doctors and staff at VCA Bay Area Animal Hospital and Creature Comfort Holistic Veterinary Center have taken an interest in working with our bunnies, and while both offices have graciously kept the cost as low as possible, we must pay for medicine and tests, splints and bandages, hospitalization and critical care.
Approximately $2,000 must be raised each year, and we have established the Rabbit Medical Fund to help our needy bunnies. The Fund is a special account within the City's Finance Department that is restricted to paying all the bills of our sick, injured and abused rabbits. Donations are always gratefully accepted, but please be advised the the City of Alameda Animal Shelter is not recognized as a nonprofit organization for tax purposes. But don't let that stop you if you want to help our bunnies! Donations may be made at the shelter office, or checks endorsed to "Alameda Animal Shelter Rabbit Fund" can be mailed to us.
Some of our rabbits are "Special Needs" animals who are still very adoptable, but may have disabilities or other long-term health problems, and we're always looking for folks who are willing to give these bunnies a loving home and some extra care. Ask Rich to tell you about the emotional rewards he receives from working with these sweet and gentle creatures.
For more information about our Rabbit Medical Fund, or to find out about our "Special Needs" bunnies, contact Rich at our RabbitRow@aol.com address.
So, what happened to little Frank? He made a complete recovery, and he was adopted by one of our volunteers. Over the years he's been a frequent visitor at some of Alameda's retirement homes, where his small size is a perfect fit for a senior's lap.
And, oh yes. He was named Frank because he has blue eyes, just like Frank Sinatra!
A postscript...
Frank crossed over the Rainbow Bridge in August 2003, from complications of a sudden intestinal impaction. His bonded mate Sausage was at his side, as was his human companion. |
