Hi,
We recently brought home our new rescue bunnies, who are settling in great. Emerson is getting comfortable with us very quickly, while Peabody is a bit of a nervous nelly. If we are in their space she always needs to be near her hidey-box, which is fine. I'm okay with her being a shy bunny! However, she is a lionhead and she is going to need regular grooming. The first experience didn't go well:
Bonding w/ New Bunnies [Post 9]
When we were hanging out with them tonight, I did notice again that smaller matt in her fur and it is going to need grooming (if not removing again). She is catchable, but she runs away from it, and she's not happy being held. I really don't want to traumatise her everytime I groom her. I don't mind if she doesn't like me much, as long as I can keep her healthy and happy (and I know grooming is a big part of this). But I don't want her being stressed by the whole situation, which is probably going to have to happen at least once a week. Does anyone have any suggestions?
They were brought to the rescue centre because of being in an over-crowded home and were very neglected. Poor Peabody was very matted and the rescue vets had remedied this, but I know while they were being fostered (only for about four or five weeks before we fell in love with them) she wasn't being groomed. I think with regular attention, matts won't be a problem, so it'll be less difficult, but I need to get it under control first.
I would appreciate any advice, other than what we've already tried - treats during and after, and constant soothing talking... :?