We've been wanting to do a serious makeover of our bunny room for a long time. There were always reasons not to.... the time it takes... the hassle it creates...where would the bunnies go during the renovation... what would be the best plan for the makeover... when would be a good time... will there be enough help...
In May, long-time EARS volunteers represented the national House Rabbit Society at the Animal Care Expo sponsored by the Humane Society of the US. Our volunteers came back to Alabama so inspired by the work of shelters and rescue groups from all over the world that the decision was made: it was never going to be conveinent but we could make our makeover dreams happen if our volunteers could help us do it.
Well, it was no surprise when they stepped up. Our volunteers did everything from the (literal) heavy lifting to painting and cabinet shopping (and finding super deals) to fostering bunnies and helping to reassemble the foster home when the makeover was wrapping up.
First thing, everything was moved from the bunny room--all the bunnies... all the stuff... everything. This was not a small feat but we knew it was essential to start with an empty room that was only full of possibilities. With the room empty and the makeover plans set it was time to start the fun stuff.
We had the floor painted and sealed with a surface that allows the bunnies to get traction in their apartments and play areas. The new floor makes cleaning up a spill or cleaning up after a not-yet neutered bunny a breeze. Last December, we had updated the duct work to be more efficient when heating and cooling so of course the logical next step was to install new ceiling fans to improve the air circulation. The sink, countertop and cabinets were installed next, and the refrigerator was moved to make a more efficient work area. This is a dream work area and for the first time in our main foster home there were more binkies from the humans than the bunnies!
The bunnies were moved back in last, after all the major details were taken care of. The photos below were taken before we had moved the bunny-sitting apartments and carriers to the new bundercare area. We hope to put more photos showing the final makeover but hope even more that you'll come to a volunteer meeting and see it for yourself!
There are so many more details we have incorporated that is making the daily care of the foster bunnies so much more people-friendly that we can't wait to share.
THANK YOU, VOLUNTEERS! This happened because YOU gave up time and energy and put so much to making this project happen.
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