The best way to avoid disappointment, is to not expect anything from anyone. ~ Unknown
Tag Archives: rabbits
Holland Lop & Heat Tolerance
WARNING: Unverified Opinions Blog Content. Opinions expressed here is based on author’s observation and experience reader’s discretion needed.
During my younger days, I read a lot about dogs and I am a sucker for short snout/muzzle (or in short, Brachycephalic) dogs because they are cute and captivating. Recently I have read about airlines banning certain dogs from being allowed on board airplanes due to the many problems attributed to their short snout/muzzle.
One attribute that captured my attention recently is the heat tolerance in Brachycephalic dogs (reference article). Apparently, they are prone to overheating (heatstroke, collapse & death) . Dogs as we know, regulate body temperature through footpads but mostly through panting.
How does all these translates to rabbits?
Rabbits regulate body temperature through their ears where the major blood vessels are located. In extreme heat, rabbits can be seen panting (head banging) with moisture around their mouth, nose and when it gets bad, they lick their front feet at the region around the ankles in attempt to cool themselves down through moisture on the major blood vessels in that area. How many of you noticed matted fur with saliva stains on your rabbit’s front paws?
As you can see, both dogs and rabbits do not sweat like how we humans do.
So is Holland Lop less heat tolerable compared to breeds like the Mini Rex?
I personally believe so because through my observation and experience, lop ear rabbits with regular snout/muzzle tend to thrive better than the Holland Lop in Malaysia. Being prey animal at the lower realm of the food chain, rabbits are highly adaptable and the most obvious physical change from one generation to the next in Holland Lop under the Malaysia weather is their ear length and overall flesh condition. The rule of thumb is, larger surface area to volume ratio in smaller animal means higher efficiency in losing and gaining heat.
I have written about “selective” breeding before and not to repeat myself, it means that we breed to retain the physical characteristics that is desirable which are clearly specified in a “standard” of some sort. I have not done extensive study or research on this but if I would to apply what happens to Brachycephalic dogs the same way I would apply on Holland Lop rabbits, there is indeed one very obvious similarity between the two – change in skull structure/shape.
I recently came across a sketch picture of a rabbit skull done by Isa Cunanan. At press time, I have yet to receive any confirmation if I could use her sketch for a graphical morph to illustrate the point I would like to put forth. The morphing process helps in my opinion in explaining how the rabbit skull changes and also explain probably how the malocclusion phenomenon happens. I have decided to share the morphing process until I receive a notice that I am not allowed to use the sketch.
A Mini Rex rabbit with a regular snout/muzzle. Long and pointy ears too!
A stumpy Holland Lop with short snout/muzzle. Short and rounded ears to adhere to standards.
Here are the morphs (Please click on image to see animation):-
Skull structure change through selective breeding to adhere to standard:
Click on image to view animation.
Skull development towards Malocclusion:
Click on image to view animation.
I am not making any statement whether selective breeding is good or bad. The Holland Lop breed thrives in many locations with “good” temperature/climate. Malaysia at press time is 81 degrees Fahrenheit or 27 degrees Celsius with the 89% humidity.
Is the Malaysia tropical climate suitable for the Holland Lop to be raised as is without any temperature control?
I believe that there are many approaches that can be taken.
1. Bring anything but Summer into your home. That means, you will need to simulate Autumn, Winter or Spring within your rabbits’ living quarters. Preferable Spring because that when most rabbits in the wild tend to be prolific.
2. Leave these rabbits where they truly belong. Anywhere but tropical climate.
3. Accept the fact that locally bred will eventually evolve into a different looking animal compared to its imported counterpart.
Filed under Rabbit Genetics, Thoughts
Sunday Bunsitive Quote
Life is hard. Then you die. Then they throw dirt in your face. Then the worms eat you. Be grateful it happens in that order. ~ David Gerrold
Filed under 6 Buns A Week
Thursday Bunsitive Quote Of The Day
“Hypocrites get offended by the truth.”
― Jess C. Scott, Bad Romance: Seven Deadly Sins Anthology
Filed under 6 Buns A Week
Bunsitive Quote Of The Day
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away. ~ George Carlin
Filed under 6 Buns A Week
What’s The Point Of This?
When we attended school, the one thing that we are most afraid of is examination. We go through all the topics for a particular subject and at the end of the semester, we are tested through an examination or perhaps an assignment based on the topics covered. There is always fear surrounding the examinations that I believe can be attributed to the fact that it is natural for us humans to shun or avoid defeat. The peer pressure does not make it any better because our pride will be greatly damaged if we fail a particular subject.
I guess the entire ecosystem is taking examination the wrong way because now that I have gone through most of the “theoretical” examinations, I am indeed going through all the “practical” examinations life is throwing at me. Do I succeed in all so far? Of course not but I get to learn from mistakes! I believe whether it is a theoretical or a practical exam, the main objective of an examination is to gauge how well you know a certain subject or how well you are equipped for a particular skill. Each failure provides us with a new opportunity to sharpen the knowledge and skill needed to pass.
Like an examination, I look at rabbit shows as a time of examination or a platform to gauge how well one has harnessed the skill of breeding show rabbits. Technically, your rabbit is not competing with the rabbits in the judging coops beside it. It is judged against the Standard Of Perfection or at least that is how it should be. The closest to the Standard Of Perfection, the higher it places in the entire group. But of course it is not as mechanical as it seemed since there is human factor involved in the judging process. So perhaps a little dent or bald spot on your rabbit become the one factor it was placed 2nd.
Placing high or low is besides the point here. Again, it is an examination if you are going the correct direction in achieving what the Standard of Perfection is asking for. For show breeders, their rabbits are critically judged in many levels. The rabbits musts be first judged by the breeder himself or herself before deemed “showable”. They are then placed on the official show to be judged by the qualified judges. This can be seen as one sitting for the A Levels Examination as foundation and moving on to his or her Diploma examinations.
Whatever it is, examinations or rabbit shows are there for us to gauge our progress in the certain knowledge or skill we are trying to obtain.
Truth be told, my observation (and others as well) tells me that is not the case when it comes to rabbit shows in Malaysia or perhaps in other countries as well. Someone I know even shared his observation on rabbits being imported before shows. It is happening so rampantly that so much so, importation news can be taken as indication of a rabbit show coming soon. I do not have anything against importation since we need imports to improve our herd. Most imports if not all are very good breeding materials of course but I was hoping that breeders have a little more faith in their rabbits.
I like over analyze things so just to make sense out of it all, I would like to rationalize and put into writing the reason for this phenomenon. No one have to agree with me and I do not expect that. Just my thoughts thrown into my own writing space.
Examination Theory
Using the same examination theory that I have put forth earlier. Placing imported rabbits on the show table seemed a little weird for me because one seemed to be yearning for affirmation if he or she imported the correct stock. Knowing well that different judges seemed to have inconsistent opinions, what if your imported rabbits are placed at the bottom? That is such a hard blow to the resources spent. But the point really is, what would you like to gauge showing imported rabbits? I can only think of the following:
- Did I import good rabbits worthy as breeding stock? Isn’t that too late now that the rabbits have arrived?
- Are my imports winning materials? If I am spending that amount of money, I better be sure to win but there are just too many variables to fulfill in order for someone crown your rabbit a winner.
- Are my imports better than his/her imports? There is no point competing on the human level. You will soon be outplayed by millionaires who have money to burn.
There is a misconception surrounding rabbit shows as of late. Winning seemed to determine everything for a breeder. More rabbits and rabbit products sold just because the breeders are in the business and ride on the win to promote certain products they carry. More than meets the eye in my opinion.
The real reason in my humble opinion for any new acquisition of rabbits be it purchasing locally bred or import is to improve whatever traits that are lacking in the current herd.
And to conclude, it makes sense to me that to show my home grown rabbits to gauge of my progress and if I am happy with the placement, I am confident that is an affirmation telling me that I am on the right track and I should continue doing what I am doing to improve my rabbits further.
Two good examples I have in my rabbits that I have harnessed the skill and am now ready to move forward with life.
The first is Murdoch the broken tort buck that was placed 1st and last by two different judges. That proves that there tend to be inconsistencies between judges. I am indeed happy with how Murdoch turned out to be and as his 1st level judge, I passed him with flying colors.
The second is Blaze the solid tort buck that was placed top 5 by two different judges. Extremely happy with his development and as his 1st level judge, I also passed him with flying colors.
Am I praising myself? Sure and of course. This hobby can get really self glorying at times and who better to praise you other than yourself, right? You need that much confidence to be able to be courageous enough to put your own rabbits on the show table most of the time.
Beyond the technicalities of the standards, and above all, rabbits like Murdoch and Blaze are first and foremost my pets. I treat them like my little children and they deserve all the care an owner can provide.
And what does all the ribbons and trophies mean to me? Rightly so, they belong here…
Ribbons and trophies will never match the worth of joy, friendships and companionship these rabbits have provided to my family and I.
Filed under Bucks, Rabbit Show, Thoughts
Next Chapter
The interesting thing about a book is that, as long as you have not finish reading it, the story continues. For the past 6 years the story of Tru-Luv Rabbitry enters into many different chapters. At this juncture, it is entering yet another chapter and the story evolves.
With the recent sale and adoption post, many have approached me with offers and I appreciate each inquiry. All but one have returned to their respective homes and I am sure they will be well taken care of.
Throughout the years I have learned many lessons while raising Holland Lops and most of which are related to human behavior. If there is one thing I learn about handling humans in this hobby, it is definitely the skill of keeping a straight face and whatever you do, you must not allow your emotions show.
But time and time again, I am reminded that it is not really about the people but instead it really is all about the hobby. Which is, my rabbits and I.
We should always learn from the past and move forward with all the good lesson learned but I for one can get stuck at a certain point of time reminiscing the wonderful events the past has to offer.
I remembered that in the past, I have all the time in the world to spend grooming and handling each and every one of my rabbits. Then I realized that back then, I only have a handful and that was when the impact of the thought hits. Twenty five (25) rabbits just do not make sense and when I think of it right now, I ask myself how the hell did it get out of control like that!
Just imagine a room filled with battle droids like how it is in a Star Wars movie. Every single one look identical but somehow different. It really comes to a pointless situation whereby I start asking myself why am I cloning so many rabbits that looks the same while missing the real point of having a pet?
I believe we tend to loose focus sometimes and somehow need to be reminded of the meaning of raising animals as pets.
Through the years I have encountered many people who are captivated by the beautiful pictures of cute rabbits posted on the internet. It came to a point where everyone wants a Holland Lop. Unfortunately for some, after having the rabbits for a couple of weeks realize that it is not as interesting as it seemed to be. The rabbit tend to avoid human contact, less interactive and poops a lot!
Even though there are many different opinions among rabbit owners, there are many who cares a great deal about their rabbits and the benefactors here are of course, the rabbits – which is a good thing.
What is the point of this post anyway? I guess my mind is so random on this one that I am straying away from the main point.
I guess what I am trying to say is that, many sees this as the end of Tru-Luv Rabbitry. There is lack of updates, contents and almost nothing interesting.
The story does not end here. It only closes the chapter to another chapter. But is this the chapter whereby the good old simple days are mentioned? Or perhaps a time of reminiscing of the past?
It is indeed bittersweet to bid them farewell. Like the day gives way to night, every hour passed to give new horizon to the next hour. We do move on from time to time. It is memories that last until the end of time.
Lights, Camera, Action!
It was a wonderful evening as the cameras started rolling. Yes! Tru-Luv Rabbitry will be in the media again and I am enjoying every bit of it. I love “camwhoring” as much as my rabbits! 😛
Stay tuned and watch this space!
Mic check 1, 2….
Also, you notice our latest blog header picture? Awesome isn’t it?
Ini Kali Lah!
Filed under Tru-Luv On The Media
How Far Will You Take This Craze?
I am very grateful to have many amazing mentors in this bunny hobby throughout the years and I will never forget what one of my mentors told me about Holland Lop rabbits living against the odds in the warmer climate here in Malaysia and the high humidity level that do have adverse effect on them as well. This mentor of mine illustrated verbally exactly how imported rabbits will “transform” in their next generations.
Over the years I can clearly see the toll it (the weather) has taken on many imported rabbits. One issue clearly stands out among the many issues raising “show quality” rabbits here in Malaysia. Of course it does not take a genius to question such issues but the most prominent problem faced by seasoned breeders here is BREEDING.
There are many theories that has been derived through experiences and observations but tonight I would like to share my opinions on some of the problems that I have observed throughout the years.
We all know that breeding is an act by living creatures to increase the numbers of the species and I strongly believe that it will be successful only if the environment is conducive. There should be a certain level of comfort before any living organism can thrive.
Even if the environment is conducive, prey animals like rabbits tend to “adapt” faster compared to animals higher in the food chain. The need to survive can quickly affect the physical traits of prey animals.
In order to conform to the “breed standards”, physical traits make up almost 90% of the judging criteria for fancy rabbits like the Holland Lop and Netherland Dwarf breeds. And this is where Malaysian bred rabbits fair poorly against the imports. And for the imports, it depends on how fresh they are from the “import oven” and how close they are between landing in the airport and on the show tables.
Ear Length
I have seen pictures taken of Netherland Dwarfs with perfect short ears prior to importation and after 6 months, the same show winning Netherland Dwarfs can look like any regular “mongrel” rabbits here in Malaysia.
I realized that it is not because the ears have grown much longer since arrival but in fact, have lost so much fur that the base of the ears are exposed making them look longer than desired. And because physical traits are judged based on how they look to the naked eye, such “length” can be deemed as a fault.
Flesh Condition
I can safely say that it is summer all year round for Malaysia and rabbits tend to eat less in warmer climate. Feeding less nutritious pellets can make matters worst as far as flesh condition is concerned because less food intake will only make rabbits look scrawny. I have found that Genesis Ultra Premium pellets helped a lot as compared to all other brands that I have tried so far. The nutrition needed to maintain a reasonable amount of flesh condition can be achieve because of the wholesome nutrition offered by the pellets. But the fact remains the same that rabbits will not be as massive compared to those living in cooler condition where they eat more and put on more mass thus making them look massive.
Breeding
As for breeding, I have many observations and there are many reasons that I can see affecting the rabbits in this area. I believe cooler temperature does help to a certain extend and bucks can go sterile easily in the heat.
Solutions?
I have learned that if you are going to complain about something, the least you can do is offer solution but it does not take a rocket scientist to figure out the solution. If heat is the problem, then deal with it. Duh! I am just stating the obvious. If breeding is the problem, then deal with it. There are many alternatives to infertility. You can really do Artificial Insemination and they really have a lot of success with the Pandas. You can also do In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) but that is really an insult to the human community because it is such an expensive procedure to be done on RABBITS! And the latest craze is of course hormone injections. OMG, it is just like administering BOTOX!
But do you really want to do that?
My stand with unnatural intervention is very clear. If a rabbit have problems, it only means that the environment is not conducive and unsuitable. Don’t you think that there is something wrong with the picture? “Breed Like Rabbits” is a very valid statement but why don’t certain rabbits breed like rabbits?
And the desperation for fancy breeders to get their rabbits to reproduce is absolutely unbelievable because of the distance they will go to “squeeze” babies out of these imported rabbits. It has come to a point that this hobby is fast becoming questionable. “Passion vs. Greed”, “Return On Investment”, or even “Do They Really Belong Here?”
I think we all really have to pause a little moment to think about life and what is really important here. If you want any animal to thrive naturally, it must be adaptable even if it means losing certain “desired” physical traits.
Can’t we settle for how a rabbit look, naturally?
Filed under Bunny Business, Ramblings, Thoughts
Tru-Luv Rabbitry: Quality Holland Lops in Malaysia 