by Terri / Terri-Mommy

As I look through Petfinder to look for a new little bunny to adopt and cherish, my mind drifts back to where it all began.

It was years ago but I remember it like it was yesterday (which is something coming from me considering my unreliable memory is infamous to those who know me). I was at a charity event for my older brother’s school. It was a school specifically for special needs children so they could always use more money. There were games, rides, and crafts to buy. My mother went to the auction (I followed her, being decently young at the time) and there he was.

There were two rabbits on the stage where the auction would take place. Many of the other children were cooing over a large white rabbit on the left side of the stage. However, no one paid any attention at all to the smaller black rabbit to the right. No one other than me. I really wished I could play with him; he seemed so alone. However, I knew I couldn’t buy him so I left to try and enjoy myself as much as possible.

My mother, a fellow animal lover, noticed me and the rabbit. Once the auctioning got underway, she also noticed that no one was bidding on the little black rabbit. Unsure of what would happen to him, my mother place the only and winning bid of $25 for him, cage and all included.

I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw her leave the building with him. Mother specified that my brother and I were to share him (of course, mom was going to do most of the real work in the end). However, the only part my brother really took part in was in naming him — Bunnicula.

Thus began a beautiful relationship. So wonderful that it seems strange, unbelievable even, to me when I hear of children abandoning their rabbits. I wasn’t a perfect owner I’m sure, no one ever is, especially their first time around but Bunnicula seemed to think I was just fine.

I still remember how he would follow me around the house, ran up to me when I came home from school, how he was the only thing that could inspire me to eat vegetables (and an excellent way to dispose of them). He was not perfect, our furniture does not miss him I am sure. Still, how many rabbits have the courage to corner hunting dogs? Our poor weimaraner never had a chance other than to become his day time napping buddy.

As the years went by, he simply just became a part of our household like any one of us. Until, one night, I went into the backroom while my family watched TV. Bunnicula had free reign of the house, it was strange for him not to come out to be with everyone. When I got to there, I saw him lying on his side in his favorite spot. I went over and nudged him, assuming he was asleep.

He wasn’t.

I suppose I was in denial. I went back to the living room and waited until later and asked someone to go check on him. My brother confirmed my nightmare, Bunnicula was gone. He was not acting strangely and I was later told something happened to his heart because of his old age, that he went to sleep and just did not wake up. I could not understand how such a loving heart could ever falter but found some comfort in knowing that he did not suffer nor did anything cut his life short. Still, it was difficult for those left behind.

Many years have pasted, my little Bunnicula. I am no longer the little girl who rolled on the floor with you and aided you in making such a mess with the bedding you had. I have grown and am in college, but I have never forgotten you, not even for a second.

You inspired me. You helped me to understand a new species of pet and to call those who consider rabbits simple rodents “fools.” I have always treasured the time we had together.

I have moved on, but pray for the day when we meet again so I can scratch you above the nose like you always liked.

 

Until we meet again,
Terri