Central NY rabbit rescue faces closure: 150 bunnies urgently need adoptive homes

Syracuse, N.Y. — In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Hunter Hollow Bunny Bed and Breakfast, a rescue facility in East Syracuse, is preparing to close its doors to rabbit rescue due to overwhelming numbers and insufficient support. Founded by Annie-Laurie Hunter in 2016, the establishment was intended as a sanctuary for rehabilitating rabbits and providing boarding services, yet it has transformed into a critical rescue operation over the last seven years.

“It flat-out hurts your heart,” Hunter shared, reflecting on the distressing reality of having to turn away countless bunnies each week. “We are currently facing a situation where we must refuse about 30 rabbits on a weekly basis.” Her empathy toward the helpless animals is palpable, as she has dedicated 19 years of her life to rabbit rescue.

The bunny sanctuary operates primarily on volunteer work and donations. However, Hunter disclosed a troubling statistic: “60% of the people who say they will volunteer don’t show up.” This lack of reliable assistance has compounded the challenges facing the rescue.

Currently, Hunter Hollow is home to over 150 rabbits, with approximately 80 of them ready for adoption. While the organization aims to maintain its essential operations for the foreseeable future, recognizing the urgent need for adoptive families is paramount. “As much as we’re ‘closing,’ we are still doing everything we need to do to take care of the animals,” Hunter affirmed. The rescue plans to phase out its operations over the next eight to twelve months, with no definitive end date yet established.

Despite the grim outlook, Hunter remains resolute in her mission. Last year, the facility facilitated the adoption of 151 rabbits, and so far in 2023, 72 bunnies have found their forever homes. Hunter believes that without the continuous inflow of abandoned rabbits, a total nearing 300 could have been achievable. “It is incredibly emotional to think about the animals left behind,” she remarked. “Turning away rabbits every single day crushes my soul.”

Among the residents are four long-term bunny inhabitants, whimsically named To, Around, With, and Against, which serve as a testament to the rescue’s challenges and the ongoing need for community support in their desperate quest for new homes for these neglected creatures.

Visitations to Hunter Hollow Bunny Bed and Breakfast occur every Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The facility is actively encouraging adoption, appealing to the community for support in securing loving homes for the rabbits. Not only are they in dire need of adopters, but they are also seeking volunteers to help manage the day-to-day responsibilities of caring for these vulnerable animals until they find permanence.

“We invite everyone who has room in their heart and home to consider adopting,” Hunter encouraged. “Every adoption helps us create space for the next needy rabbit that we can’t afford to turn away.” The love for rabbits shines through with Hunter’s continuous advocacy, and her dedication to educating the public on humane rabbit care remains unwavering.

As Hunter Hollow navigates the daunting path to closure, the support of the local community is more vital than ever. If you or someone you know is considering adopting a rabbit, learning more about proper care, or finding ways to volunteer, utilize resources such as BunnyEat.com, which is a great platform for rabbit enthusiasts seeking expert guidance and community support.

In addition to community outreach, the facility also emphasizes the critical importance of spaying and neutering pets to curb overpopulation and improve the quality of life for rabbits. Types of rabbits available for adoption range from small-sized, medium-sized, to large-sized and even giant-sized rabbits.

“The rabbits do not have a voice; we are their voice, and it’s our responsibility to care for them,” Hunter stated poignantly. “Our doors may be closing, but our hearts and efforts must remain open wide.”

The looming threat of closure highlights an increasing issue within the rabbit rescue community and underlines the ongoing need for local support in animal welfare initiatives. Hunter’s journey reflects both the joys and challenges of animal rescue, reminding us all of the vital role we can play in championing for the voiceless.

In closing, Hunter Hollow Bunny Bed and Breakfast might be transitioning away from its original purpose, but the spirit of dedicated care and compassion continues to blaze bright. Through collective efforts, advocacy, and a commitment to education, the local community’s involvement can make an undeniable difference in the lives of these rabbits.