Pet of the Week: Flemish giant rabbits

Sheri, Magdalena and Pete -- all insanely cute 1-year-old Flemish giant rabbits -- were bought and purposely bred in an attempt to sell baby rabbits at Easter time.  However, as is often the case in these instances of “backyard breeding,” Sheri, Magdalena and Pete, as well as 14 of their babies, ended up at the MSPCA-Nevins Farm in Methuen, Mass. 

None of these beautiful animals were ever sold because they were living indoors in filthy conditions and lacked the proper care and nutrition necessary for them to thrive.

Most of the rabbits were suffering from various health problems by the time they arrived at MSPCA-Nevins Farm. Many of the babies were riddled with parasites, and some were wheezing due to the unsanitary conditions they were forced to live in. Some of the babies will also need corrective dental surgery because their teeth are not properly aligned. The MSPCA-Nevins Farm adoption team, however, is treating all of their medical issues and has even started to “clicker train” the shyer rabbits to ensure they will make excellent pets.

Flemish rabbits are one of the oldest and biggest breeds of rabbits and are known for their docile temperament. They typically do very well in homes with small children and other pets and are very easy to train. Many people who adopt them liken their personality to that of a dog. 

The MSPCA-Nevins Farm adoption staff is looking for loving and permanent homes for these amazing animals. To learn more about them -- as well as the many other dogs, cats and small animals available for adoption at the MSPCA-Nevins Farm -- click here. 

The MSPCA-Nevins Farm Adoption Center is located at 400 Broadway in Methuen, directly across from Route 28. Hours of operation are Tuesday and Thursday from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Wednesday and Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Adoption Center is closed on Mondays and on Holidays.