2009 Mini Rex Nationals to be held in Fort Worth, TX the last weekend in March 2009!! Don't miss it!!
http://www.texasminirex.com/TMR_news.html
Go to the Texas Mini Rex Club site for more information!
See ya there!
(photo courtesy of Andrea Fisher)
Otter Delight's Lore at the 2007 TMRRC Hillsboro show right after his Best Opposite of Breed win in the Show A Open! First time out of the barn. :) Oh and at 3 1/2 months old to boot!! Great job Lore!
Hi there. My name is Lana. I would love to tell you a bit about myself so, pull up a chair and get comfy.
I began raising rabbits when I was 13 years old. Yep, way back in the early 1980's. I began with about 50 or so New Zealand Whites. It was quite an experience! I learned alot about what a rabbit needed to be successful and happy. I could always be found in the rabbit area talking to my furry friends and handing out lots of TLC. Rabbits were so facinating to me. They were so efficient yet relied on me for their complete care. It was a great experience for me to have had being so young. Learning how to care for others and be responsible in that care was a beautiful life lesson. One I have taken into the rest of my life.
As a newlywed I moved away from raising rabbits for a few years until it was feasible again. It was in my 30's I decided to get back into raising rabbits again. But, this time maybe a different breed. I also wanted to experience showing animals. It felt like the next natural step.
By chance I felt my first mini rex. I was instantly head over heels. The fur was exquisit and breathtaking. Unlike anything I had ever felt! After researching this breed and discovering they have such a gentle disposition on top of being so absolutely beautiful, this was a perfect match.
Next I had to choose the color. So many to choose from! I had heard that the otter color was being worked on. Since there was 4 otter colors that seemed very do-able.
I saw my first in a photograph online. That was it...Otter! Gosh, my poor husband! He was very supportive but I'm sure would have enjoyed me taking a breath once in a while and talking about something else.....ANYTHING else! lol
Little did I know how hard it was going to be to find an otter let alone one suitable for my needs. But, like anything else, something worth having is worth working for. (Please read "what is an otter" page on my web site for a description and photos of otters.
After a few raised eyebrows when inquiring if a breeder had an otter (many thought I didn't know what I was talking about. LOL) I located someone who was kind enough to sell me a black otter. They were not yet recognized as a color by the ARBA but were well on their way thanks to Armando Cabrera and his hard work.
In 2005 all 4 colors of otter were accepted by the ARBA and in February 2005 they began gracing the tables. They would all be shown as a variety together. Black, lilac, blue, and chocolate. I always thought it was unique as it provided a rainbow of colors under one umbrella "Otter".
Over these years I have built and completely re-built my herd. I was on a mission to seek out and populate my barn with only the best otters in the US. That was a tall order. But, then again, it was worth working towards.
Along the way I have met some outstanding people and made some wonderful friends. They were willing to share their knowledge with me and take me in under their wing. The education I received was priceless and I have paid it forward. I can't thank them enough. :)
One of the things I have learned thru the years is nothing replaces superior genetics, clean environment and a steady supply of fresh water and feed. Sounds pretty simple. Both the rabbits and their environment are kept clean both for good husbandry and health and also out of respect for them as living things.
One of my many philosophys is if you're going to do something, do it well. The day I can't provide superior care for my friends is the day I will no longer have them in my charge.
For me, having only mini rex and only in the four otter varieties and black works best. That helps me stay focused and on "target".
My small rabbitry has grown in leaps and bounds in the last few years with this dedication. Not in the number of rabbits, but in the quality of my animals. Every single animal in my barn IMO is breathtaking. I have had to make some hard choices but I remember my promise to myself to ever press forward in quality.
Learning and understanding rabbit behavior is key to understanding what they need to be successful. I watch "rabbit TV" all the time by sitting on the floor of their room and just observe them. It is then I can understand when to tweek things this way or that and solve a problem. I also love detective work and problem solving. Keeps me on my toes. :)When "Momma" walks into the room everyone wants to be petted first. They are too cute! I am honored that they accept me and trust me so. They are all so very unique and special. This is indicitive to our chosen breed. They are intelligent and fun loving.
Remembering their intelligence is important however. They need mental stimulation and a large enough environment to habitate in. 24x24 cage is sufficient. It allows them bucking and horse play room. lol I use Parrot toys for them with a bell. It provides audible stimulation as well. Keep them happy and healthy. It is a win/win situation.
They each get pinecones and nibble to their hearts content. They love throwing them up into the air. It is so fun to watch. Of course, pinecones also help their teeth and the oil is believed to help their coat. ;)
I have spoken at schools educating our children about animals and respecting nature. I feel by starting these kiddos out young, perhaps this will have a lasting impression upon them. I tell them all about rabbits, their young, and how to properly treat and care for these wonderful creatures. Kids ask such great questions and keep me on my toes. I love that.
My animals have been and are being used as therapy animals for emotionally challenged children. Animals can be used quite efficiently to bridge the gap of communication. They do not judge or have a harsh word.
This is one of my bunnies just about to fall asleep while I hold her. She completely trusts me and needs that closeness. Each bunny is special and has a unique personality.
Please feel free to look around. I hope you are able to see the passion I have for what I do. Please feel free to ask any questions. I am here to educate others about rabbits and get them excited about these wonderful creatures. I strive to make a difference and hope I have in my small way.
These treasures are my OTTER DELIGHT!
Please email me anytime. I love them and do my best to respond quickly.
new email:
otterdelightrabbitry@gmail.com
I am located in Joshua, TX near Fort Worth and am a proud member of the ARBA, TRBA.