Happy Holidays!

Well...back to blogging. I have made it a goal to blog at least weekly in the new year. We have been recovering slowly from our "issues" of the summer and have been very sorry to read on many rabbit groups how others are suffering from "feed" issues.

I think we (rabbit breeders) in general may be blaming every illness and death on feed. I don't think it is fair to go that far. I am not saying feed isn't playing a role, but I do agree with many who are noticing that people are changing rabbit feeds almost on a weekly basis. This can't be good for the rabbits. Also, we in the NW have had some bad weather....this plays a role in health also.

Not only does the cold contribute to weakening immune systems, we have to remember two of what I feel are the most important factors in raising healthy rabbits, also suffer a bit in the cold weather. These are water and sanitation.

Water has been called the most important nutrient in any diet. Frozen crocks and water bottles definitely limit the amount of water rabbits are getting. Make sure your rabbits are getting plenty of water during this cold weather.

I have no easy answer on how to do -- we too have struggled with frozen water pipes in our barn.

Also, the cold affects our ability to be as meticulous as we often are about cleaning. Good sanitation is still a must.

One of the gifts under our tree was the book "Rabbit Production" by McNitt, J. I.; Cheeke, Peter R.; Patton, Nephi M.; Lukefahr, Steven D. / 8th Edition

This is often referenced on various groups and rabbit material. It is by far the best book I have seen covering the overall production of rabbits. Its focus is not showing but rather raising for production (meat). The disease section is awesome!

There is a whole section devoted to rabbit nutrition and as we all look at the feed issues, this is very helpful in understanding the overall picture of what nutritionally a rabbit needs.

I was able to find the newest version (edition 8) at www.ecampus.com for just $45.63 -- that was new! Most bookstores offer it at full price over $150 and with a 2-3 week shipping. Ecampus specializes in textbooks and I got in about 1 1/2 weeks (slowed weather).

If you are looking for the comprehensive book on rabbits, this is a must for your library.

Happy Holidays!