If you've ever said "my rabbit is indoor only, so it's fine" - we hear you. And we're still going to make the case for spaying or neutering anyway, because this decision matters more than most rabbit parents realize.

It's not just about babies.

Going to your rabbit's first RHDV-2 vaccine appointment can feel intimidating, especially if you're not sure what to expect. Here's a straightforward walkthrough of the whole process so you and your rabbit can walk in confident.

Rabbits are still second-class citizens in the pet world. That is not an exaggeration - it is the reality of how the shelter and rescue system treats them, how they are housed, how they are assessed, and how quickly they are overlooked in favor of dogs and cats who have more resources, more advocates, and more public sympathy.

We are not writing this to discourage you from the shelter system. We are writing this because the more you understand how it actually works - and where it falls short - the better advocate you can be for the rabbit in front of you.

Pellets are like potato chips to some rabbits. If your rabbit is eating a variety of leafy greens and quality hay, there may be no need for pellets at all - though that depends on your rabbit's individual needs and your exotic vet's recommendation.

The rabbit volunteers at Los Angeles Animal Services (LAAS) and Long Beach Animal Care Services (LBACS) are the reason the rabbits in those facilities fare as well as they do. Not the system - the volunteers. They are showing up on weekends, on weekday mornings, on days when the shelter is overwhelmed and the staff is stretched thin, and they are doing the work that keeps rabbits fed, socialized, clean, and visible to potential adopters.

If you love rabbits and you have capacity to give - this is one of the most meaningful things you can do with it.

Here is what it actually looks like.