Rabbit

Rabbits are the reason our dogs and cats can live with us in our houses.  Louis Pasteur worked with rabbits to develop the first rabies vaccine which made it safe to bring pets into our homes.  Rabbits have a similar anatomy and physiology to humans, especially their cardiovascular system, and are susceptible to the diseases that have human equivalents.   Today they are needed for studies involving cancer, glaucoma, ear and eye infections, diabetes and emphysema.

Areas of Vital Research

Research Animals Gallery

Rabbit/USA

Positive reinforcement for bunny checks

These rabbits are involved in research aimed at preventing fluid build-up in the chest, which happens in humans and animals battling certain forms of cancer. These rabbits do not have cancer; but fluid build-up can be simulated in the animals, so that treatment strategies can be developed. Just like humans,…

View & Share

Rabbit/USA

Rabbits sharing a food bowl

Rabbits are social animals and live well in groups, especially if they are raised together as youngsters. The facility that houses these rabbits receives animals that were raised in pairs, so they are already socialized upon arrival. Even though these rabbits are provided with several bowls of food, they seem…

View & Share

Rabbit/USA

Rabbits enjoying human interaction

These rabbits enjoy human interaction. When technicians come into the room, the rabbits move to the front of the pen to receive nose scratches and treats like yogurt balls and dried persimmons. The technicians also enjoy watching these rabbits demonstrate behaviors found in the wild, such as foraging, hopping around,…

View & Share

Rabbit

Socially Housed Rabbits in Tunnels

Rabbits in this research facility are socially housed in runs with paper bedding, tunnels, dividers, toys, and treats, providing them with opportunities to hop, dig, play and forage for treats.  The rabbits are identified with non-toxic ear markers that allow caregivers and researchers to track them and their progress on…

View & Share

Rabbit

Research Rabbit Eating Parsley

Fresh vegetables and herbs, like parsley, are given to research rabbits both to enrich their environment and to provide nutrition.  This rabbit lives with seven of her sisters in a room with soft bedding and plenty of areas to explore.  Dividers, tubes, and boxes offer opportunities to chew and hide.

View & Share

Explore all of our Amazing Animals!

leftArrowleftArrow