Support Rabbits by Belen A.

Is a rabbit a good option for a support animal? Rabbits are very social with people and can make great companions and emotional support animals. Rabbits bond quickly with their owners, and their loving, caring nature makes them an ideal emotional support animal. Rabbits that have bonded strongly with their owners can recognize them by their voice and will eventually learn to come when their name is called, so there are benefits of having rabbits as support animals as they are trainable, loving, and caring.

A reason rabbits are good support animals is because they are loving and have a caring personality. Only people who have ever owned a rabbit know that these adorable furry creatures are gentle and docile by nature. According to the website supportrabbitcertification.org, it states that “even if they are quiet their loving and caring personality builds a strong bond with the owners.” For example, they can recognize their owners by their voices and can hop on them when they call their name. I had a bunny once, although he wasn’t a support animal, and he loved to cuddle, was always gentle so it made me feel much better to have a bunny that loves and cares for me. While the human is caressing the bunny, his/her endorphins can be stimulated that can calm the emotions and reduce any stress, which is beneficial for someone who is feeling low and needs emotional comfort. 

Another reason is that rabbits are trainable. According to the source“Rabbits Are Easy To Train,” rabbits respond very well to positive reinforcement training. For example, give them training treats as a reward when they perform the tasks correctly. When I had my rabbit, he knew how to use a litter box as long as I gave him a little guidance. You need to place the box in their living area and put several layers of newspaper under the hay. Then the house training for these animals comes naturally. A well-trained rabbit can come when called and perform tricks. This is a strong benefit of having this animal, making things easier for handlers and owners. 

Lastly, rabbits can be emotional support animals. According to the website bunnyland.com, “If you suffer from conditions such as anxiety, depression or other mental health conditions and find that your pet improves your ability to function in daily life, then you can get your rabbit certificated as an emotional support animal.” Getting certification this will help you find housing and travel without the need to be separated from your pet. If you’ve ever lived with a pet rabbit, I’m sure you understand how amazing they are for your mental health. As someone who grew up familiar with those who have anxiety, I cannot begin to explain how much a pet rabbit has helped others cope with life and improve their mental health. They cuddle, are friendly and are there for their owners. This was just another added benefit.

To analyze everything I have talked about, rabbits have many benefits of being support animals. They are friendly around people, healthy, and are easy to care for. They are comfortable around unfamiliar places, and completely litter trained with no accidents. Pet rabbits can be emotional support animals and providing many benefits.