So it is Spring time in most places and does are starting to have kits. At Tru-Luv Rabbitry, a new litter was born a few days after Easter. We are also looking forward for a few litters to be born while contemplating to send some retired show does to good pet homes. It is extremely hard to make a decision on passing these beautiful does along. But we do hope that they will be well taken care of one way or the other.
Filed under In The Nestbox
Show Table A & Show Table B
I remember vividly about 4 years ago when I started embarking in this hobby, a friend of mine asked me what is the point of keeping Show Rabbits when there is no Rabbit Shows in Malaysia. It was back then when I look forward to hearing news of how rabbit breeders in the USA fair in Rabbit Shows weekend after weekend and yearning to have the experience back home here in Malaysia. The naive me also dreamed not only that Malaysia have rabbits shows but also being able to produce competitive rabbits of my own. A Tru-Luv rabbit that places well in shows that is. Today, that little dream has become a reality and the best part is, I get to enjoy every bit of the Rabbit Show as an exhibitor. With a busy schedule, I cannot imagine myself putting up such an event and it is definitely an enjoyable day hanging out with fellow breeders and friends. God really works in His own mysterious ways to answer prayers and the silent desire of the heart I must say.
My bunnies & I
One for the album - Chris Zemny & I
Last minute grooming
Kudos to the Malaysia Rabbit Club for again putting up a spectacular show held in a very comfortable venue for both rabbits and owners. The venue was setup exclusively for the rabbit show and even children were enjoying themselves while their parents paid full attention to the rabbit show.
The Stage, Trophies, Ribbons and Mock Cheques
Chris & Allen giving the welcoming speech before the show
The Show Room
Because it was a conducive environment, exhibitors were able to hear the judges clearly when they explain while judging the rabbits. I learned quite a few things throughout the judging.
An exhibitor placing a rabbit in the judging coop
Placing Izzie into her coop
Dovehill's Faith (left) and BBC's Izzie (right)
Chris judging LTD's Dimsdale
Allen judging Faith
Just like last year, I attended the show with an open mind wanting to know how well my rabbits will do in the show. It is good to remind oneself that we are all the receiving end of the judges’ opinions. Their opinions will only help us in moving forward with our herd. At the same time, I am also aware that judges’ opinions may differ from one to the other. Nonetheless there are always good points to take away from each show. At some point during the show, I got a little disillusioned because of all the input and immense knowledge I received listening and looking at how the judges evaluate the rabbits.
Seeing so many beautiful rabbits that win over mine can be quite a daunting experience and the thought of revamping my entire herd did cross my mind. Then I took a step backwards and thought to myself. If I would to follow the different judges’ opinion, I might as well be revamping my herd every time a new judge comes to town. It was at that moment, something happened and affirmed that this hobby is not about getting new stocks just for the win. The hobby is made to be prolonged when we work towards breeding our own show worthy animals.
I remembered Chris Zemny’s words pretty clearly when she said that the Juniors are the ones she is excited about because competitive juniors that are bred locally shows how well the breed is doing here in Malaysia (or something along those lines). She then goes on to pick Tru-Luv’s Murdoch, my 2nd generation home grown Broken Junior Buck as the #1 for the BJB class in SHOW A. Allen Mesick also gave Murdoch the same placing in SHOW B.
Chris judges the Broken Junior Buck class while Murdoch poses
Having a picture with Chris and Murdoch
The win is not mine alone. I only have my rabbit friends in the USA to thank for it. I am grateful to those who have sent me very good foundation stocks and have entrusted me to work with their rabbits. I am very grateful for all of their mentoring and encouragements. Sometimes it is amazing how rabbit friends place their warm embrace around me when I face both bunny issues and life’s struggles alike. We have grown out of the “just rabbit friends” into a big family.
Dimsdale & Me
Not forgetting the few bunny family I have here. We share so much when we meet – talking and laughing our hearts out with the little events that happened throughout the show. We share the joys of winnings and pick each other up whenever the results were undesirable. The good thing that I see throughout today is that parents in the hobby is now exposing the next generation (their children) at the rabbit show. I would love to see the younger generation picking up this hobby. My wife told me that she rather see young people spending their time at rabbit shows than to wander around shopping malls aimlessly. I couldn’t agree more and that should be our aim moving forward.
Tru-Luv's Murdoch is a product of Fellowship, Friendship & Fun!
Last but not least, congratulations to all winners!
Filed under Bucks, Does, Juniors, Rabbit Show
For many, Easter symbolizes LIFE and for some parts of the world, Easter coincides with Spring. Spring is the season when flowers bloom and the meadows come alive! For some traditions, the rabbit and eggs are symbols of fertility and abundance during Easter. For Christians around the world, Easter is the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection and that in itself represents LIFE.
It is said that during Easter, many tend to buy rabbits to be kept as pets and most of the time, the outcome may not be a happy one (for the rabbits). The little bunnies soon out grow their cuteness and we soon find them in the shelters.
We really need to take some time to think about it and not buy pets on impulse. Whenever we think of getting a pet, we must first find out if the pet is a perfect fit into our lifestyle. We must ensure that we are able to accommodate and care for another life in our daily routine.
I recently visited the horse stable and I could see that the horses there are really happy as they are all well taken care of. In my opinion, a healthy horse is one with flesh and their rib bones are not visible.
Having a good time at the stable
Around the same time, I learn from a friend living at the heart of the Kuala Lumpur city that she and her friends found a horse roaming in the housing estate. And looking at the condition of the horse (through photos), it seemed to be pretty skinny and neglected.
Is there something wrong with this picture?
Besides from the skinny horse, I believe looking at the picture, anyone would feel that it is an inappropriate place to have a horse. Roaming around a housing estate, the horse is at risk of getting hit by a car or injuring someone if it goes into a rampage due to the stress and fear. The environment is not conducive for a horse and it is clear that it has not been given the correct diet it needs to thrive.
My friend and a few other good Samaritans have since transported this horse to a proper location in hope that it will soon recover from its emaciated condition and also to live out its life as a normal horse. They have also given a name to this horse – Dixie.
This is much better!
This is not the first time I have heard of horses ended up in housing estates but I hope we do not have to see more of this in future. As I mentioned, we must first know the basic needs of a pet and if we are able to provide it with a good environment to thrive. Some pets live shorter lives while others longer, their lifespan must also be taken into consideration as our commitment and responsible for them last as long as they are alive.
I urge everyone to do your part in saving a life. Whether you choose to buy or adopt, ensure that you are able to provide your pet with the best and for as long as it lives.
Happy Easter Everyone!
Have a Blessed Easter!
Filed under Community Service, General Care
I was at the mall today and my wife pointed out to some cute cabinets and waste paper baskets. These days, anything bunny would draw her attention and she in turn will try to get my attention as well. As I walked closer, I saw cabinets with cute bunnies on them.
Aren't they cute!?
As I turn my eyes away from the cute characters, the wordings on the cabinet gave me a little shock.
I immediately turned to my wife and told her (jokingly) that someone is “hacking” my brain waves. I have always believed that when you have an idea and a thought, there is a possibility that somewhere out in this world, someone may pick up these thoughts and ideas. The words “True Love” and “Friendship” was so spot on and it came rather timely.
Can’t wait to see everybunny this weekend!
Filed under Everyday Life, Thoughts
Just spent some time grooming the little fuzzies and took picture of them for their new owner. Bliss is really cute at this stage and it’s a pity that I do not have the time for grooming else I’ll keep a couple of fuzzies as pets. Their coat needs to be brush often to avoid mats which can be bad for their skin. Bliss enjoys her little grooming sessions and after the grooming session, she will look like a little puffed up hairball – so cute!
And remember our date later this morning (It’s 1.50 am already!), at South City Plaza (Seri Kembangan). Come meet Tru-Luv rabbits and get some rabbit supplies! See you there!
Filed under Bunny Business, Meet & Greet
Dear friends,
Please join me, Suggies At Home & Golden Pines Rabbitry this Saturday, 31st March 2012 from 9 am to 6 pm for a meet & greet session. We will be offering our products, services and advice for those who needs more information about Rabbits, Sugar Gliders and other small animals. If you need help with nail clipping and learn how to give your rabbits a simple grooming session, please drop by with your bunnies.
Due to space constraints, we will not be able to bring too many supplies so please let us know if you have anything specific that you need so that we will include them in our sales kit. See you there!
For more information please visit the organizer’s facebook page – https://www.facebook.com/events/189375451171763/
Filed under Meet & Greet, Rabbit Education
Sometimes I wonder where did all my time go and 24 hours just do not seemed to be enough. At times I felt that I might be slowing down for whatever reason. During the initial days of this weblog, I can be juggling with so many things and yet was able to spend some time taking photos and post them. I really enjoy posting photos because I know there are many people out there who appreciate and enjoy looking at them. I spent a little time today taking photographs and promised myself to write a good article today.
In the past weeks, there has been some discussions and at times heated arguments about rabbit breeds. The discussions got heated up maybe because of some wrong choices of words on my part or perhaps it was some misunderstandings and misinterpretations on the intent of my status posted on Facebook. One of the discussions was about a hybrid rabbit called the Teddy Bear. My opinion is, it could possibly be a rabbit that can be categorized under the Lionhead breed as some are with manes. There is no working standard for this breed of course but the point really is, there is no doubt anyone can start creating their own breed. The question really is who or which body/organization/association will govern and scrutinize the breed standard or if there is a standard in the first place. Either way, I agree that it is just a hobby and we need not get too serious about pedigree breeds. I must also admit that at times, I am very particular and adamant in my cause for purebreed/pedigree breeds.
The reason for this excessive compulsive behaviour over pure breeds is because a lot of hard work and time (years) that has been used to develop each different breed. So when someone toys with the idea of mixing 2 different breeds (to produce a hybrid), the argument is why are we starting from scratch again? If one is not serious in developing a new breed or improving a certain breed, I am totally against it. My view is, every litter of rabbits born will require a certain amount of resources. It is a waste of resources to just “experiment” or to help a rabbit fulfil its circle of life. When we breed, we should ensure it is a good decision crossing 2 different rabbits. It is a game of chance with genetics but we should make good “judgment”.
No doubt even the Holland Lop was first developed by crossing 2 different breeds – French Lop and Netherland Dwarf. It is also mentioned that to improve its coat and fur texture, wool has been bred into the Holland Lop as well in the history of development of this breed. That is the reason why we have the “FUZZY HOLLAND LOPS” produced once in a while and they never fails to surprise or disappoint a Holland Lop breeder. Even after more than 20 years, we are still being haunted by the genes introduced during the hybrid days.
Tru-Luv's Bliss a Fuzzy Holland Lop. Will be available in 2 weeks. Please email truluvrabbitry@gmail.com if interested.
I am totally against crossing a Fuzzy Holland & a Holland Lop deliberately on the pretence of producing “better” Fuzzy Hollands. There is no such thing as a “better” Fuzzy Holland Lop. The right thing to do is to breed a “Typey” Fuzzy Holland Lop to an American Fuzzy Lop to improve the American Fuzzy Lop. Bearing in mind that this process is also producing hybrids that does not have a full 3 generation American Fuzzy Lop pedigree. In any development, the fundamental is to use as much information possible to make the right decision in breeding. One of the most important document that can help in such decision is still the PEDIGREE. That is how important the pedigree is for without it, we are unable to know the possibilities of our breeding decision. Ask any seasoned breeder, and he or she will tell you to obtain the best specimen you can afford. I have the opportunity to work with a couple of breeders here in Malaysia that believes in that advise. They have the patience and right frame of mind to accept the fact that it is possible to produce good rabbits and only time will tell. They demanded no short cuts and enjoy the process of producing their own show stoppers. I myself is still working towards the same goal to be honest just like any other breeder out there. The carrot at the end of the stick is always ahead of us I must say.
There has been too many “School Of Thoughts” in this hobby and it really depends on what cause each “Guru” is sorting after and if the cause is a righteous one. And it also boils down to the objectives their “Followers” strive to achieve. We are indeed at a juncture where there is still a lot of education needs to be done and it is as though we’re going back to “NURSERY TIME”.
We must ask ourselves the following questions:
1. What is my objective of breeding?
2. What do I seek to produce?
3. Is it worth starting from SCRATCH (Hybrid)? If yes, am I committed to work towards a long term goal of 5 years and more to materialize a new standard?
4. Why am I starting from SCRATCH (Hybrid)? If yes, am I committed to work towards a long term goal of 5 years and more to materialize a new standard?
My advice is consistent with any seasoned breeder out there which is, get a couple of decent stocks and work towards a GOAL – Standard of Perfection and beyond…
Filed under In The Nestbox
As we all know, rabbits do need some mind stimulation and also something to gnaw on to keep their teeth from overgrowing. I stumbled across this cute little Timothy Hay House that is made of fresh Timothy Hay. It works well as a hiding place for the bunnies as well as a safe chew toy.
This little Timothy Hay House normally retails for RM 135 but TinyCritterz.com is offering it for only RM 115!
If you like to get one of these, please feel free to click on the links below:
1. Timothy Hay House (Large) – suitable for Holland Lops RM135 RM 115
2. Timothy Hay House (Small) – suitable for Netherland Dwarfs RM105 RM89
Filed under Recommendations
Coming To A Location Near You!
They say LUV knows no boundary and for that reason, we are working our butts off to get the essentials to a location near you! I just want to let everyone know that TinyCritterz’ 1kg Timothy Hay can be purchased at the following locations:-
Kuala Lumpur
1. Pet Epicure
16 Jalan Bandar 2, Taman Melawati, 53100 KL OUR OPENING HOURS AREI have written about Pet Epicure in the past but when it comes to this cosy little pet boutique (actually more than that), I have so much to write about it but just do not know where to start. The people at Pet Epicure are very passionate with what they do for the welfare of animals. Pet Epicure is mostly a cat/pet boarding facility but one will find many cats being put up for adoption as well. They are very kind hearted and can never turn down a cat (any cat for the matter). Most of what I learned about responsible pet ownership and breeding comes from Pet Epicure. They have inspired me to promote neutering to all my pet Holland Lop buyers. Pet Epicure carries a wide range of pet products including those for small animals. I would like to thank everyone at Pet Epicure for carrying TinyCritterz’ 1kg Timothy Hay and I hope rabbit owners in that area will be able to have access to good Timothy Hay!
Petaling Jaya
1. Perniagaan Jumbo
No. 20, Jalan SS5B/2 47301 Petaling Jaya Selangor Darul Ehsan 03-78744499Perniagaan Jumbo has been around for almost 30 years. Nestled in the middle of the Kelana Jaya housing area, this friendly pet shop is famous among pet lovers in the surrounding neighborhood. This is the pet shop that I first learned about Hamsters 24 years ago (when I was only 7 years old). Being an animal lover, I spent most of my weekends coming to this shop and sometimes assisting in its daily operations just for fun. I always find pleasure in chatting with both Uncle Cheah & his wife. Since three years ago, the business has been passed on and now operated by close relatives and Perniagaan Jumbo is as welcoming as before. I am always happy spending time in this pet shop and each visit will last more than an hour. It brings back a lot of wonderful childhood memories. Back then, Kelana Jaya has not been so developed and we did not even have the Giant Hypermarket. Through the years, Perniagaan Jumbo stands the test of time and has earned a place in the hearts of those in the neighbourhood. I am so happy that Mr. Cheah agreed to carry TinyCritterz’ 1kg Timothy Hay at his shop so that it is easily accessible to all rabbit lovers in the neighbourhood. Below is the location based on Google Maps:-
Guess who's back?
Digit says HELLO!
Filed under Bunny Business, Promotion, Publicity, Rabbit Diet
I am sure some of you have been wondering what happen to all the long articles and stories from Tru-Luv Rabbitry. Where are all the cute baby bunny photos? And all sorts of questions. It’s has indeed been a very long time since I last sat down here to really write an interesting piece. I am afraid that I will be disappointing you once more. ROFL…
The fact is, I really do not have anything interesting to write about lately. I have had my “HIGH” in convention and nothing will be able to top that anytime soon. I have been busy with other commitments and priorities in life. I guess that is what happen when bunny is not 100% of one’s life. There’s the family, the day job and many more that gets in the way during the course of a day.
There are a few kits that I am pretty excited about and they are always cute at that age of course. But it all has been pretty good I believe.
I am also happy to have a couple of vets that I love working together with to solve certain issues. Nothing makes me happier to share and discuss with my vets the course of action to take on certain things. And I love sharing my experience and knowledge with them whenever they call me and ask about bunnies. It feels good being able to share and help someone else along the way. I am surprised that some solutions that I suggest does not even have to be rabbit related! ROFL…
Anyway, it has been a great weekend and I hope everyone will have a good week ahead! And don’t forget to get your supplies from TinyCritterz.com. We have been working hard to bring you the conveniences and please make full use of the services!
No more belly dancing please!
Filed under Random Topics
Tru-Luv Rabbitry: Quality Holland Lops in Malaysia 