Expert Tips for Rescuing a Dumped Rabbit

(Based on real-world rescue experience with 300+ rabbits)

Rabbits are prey animals. They scare easily, move quickly, and you often only get one real chance to capture them safely. Speed, calmness, and planning are critical.

Scenario 1: You Are Alone (No Net)

1. Locate the rabbit

• Watch quietly from a distance to learn where the rabbit feels safest.

2. Expect movement

• Rabbits will usually move as you get closer. This is normal.

3. Sit down at a distance

• Do not stand or chase.

• Speak softly and calmly to help the rabbit relax.

4. Offer strong-smelling food

• Use leafy greens or banana.

• Rabbits rely heavily on smell.

5. Move closer slowly

• Stay low and avoid sudden movements.

• Do not stand up while approaching.

6. Commit when close

• When you are close enough, grab the rabbit quickly and confidently.

• You will likely only get one chance.

7. No slow pickup

• This is not a gentle scoop situation.

• You must move fast and decisively.

8. Do not let go

• The rabbit may scream or struggle.

• This is normal fear behavior—maintain a secure hold.

Scenario 2: You Are Alone With a Net

1. Position yourself carefully

• Hold the net above and slightly behind the rabbit.

2. Wait for the right moment

• When the rabbit pauses or hesitates, act immediately.

3. Drop the net fast

• Place the net directly over the rabbit.

4. Expect escape attempts

• If the first attempt fails, stay focused.

• The rabbit will likely start moving quickly.

5. Intercept the path

• Place the net a few feet ahead of where the rabbit is running.

• The rabbit should hop directly into the net.

Scenario 3: Two People With X-Pens and a Net

1. Set up the x-pens

• Arrange the x-pens in a U-shape.

2. Guide the rabbit

• Person 1 slowly herds the rabbit toward the pens.

• Food (banana or greens) can help guide movement.

3. Close and capture

• Person 2 closes the x-pen opening or uses a net to secure the rabbit.

Basic Items if you have them.

1. Carrier

2. x-pen

3. Net

4. Banana

Net Capture

1. get close to the bunny.

2. hold the next above the bunny

3. place the next directly on top of the bunny.

Net with a moving bunny

1. You must place the next in the path of the bunny.

2. Let the bunny hop into the net.

3. Rabbits are fast. They will hop away and sit and look at you.

4. Try after resting.

5. I was able to use the next on a street and football field.

Talking with the rabbit. I was able to rescue the bunny.