Adoption Procedures
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​Adoption fees include: general health exam, spaying or neutering, microchip, RHDV2 vaccinations.
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Single rabbits - $142 each
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Bonded groups - $142 for the first rabbit, plus $70 for each additional rabbit within the existing group.
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A one-year HRS membership at the local and national levels is also included for access to member-only perks!
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All rabbits are to be HOUSE RABBITS only–no exceptions!
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Home visits are required.
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We do not adopt rabbits as classroom pets. (Why? Please read this and this).
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Other rabbits in your household must be spayed or neutered (see Matchmaking). Check our vet referral list for a good rabbit vet near you.
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Adoptions to local area only (MD, DC, Northern VA). Ask us for info about a rabbit rescue near you.
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Adopters must be over 18 years old.
Adoption Policy
Primary Caregiver
The primary caregiver must be a responsible adult. The rabbit should be treated as an integral part of the family (i.e. no group ownership, such as a classroom pet. We do not adopt rabbits as pets for children. The rabbit must be wanted by the entire family.
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Indoor Housing
Our rabbits are adopted as household companions; their primary living space must be indoors. If a cage is used, their home should be at least 4-6 times their size when fully stretched out. The space should be larger if they are confined for a large amount of the day. Any space's the rabbit has access to should be adequately bunny-proofed. During the daytime, adopters can allow their rabbits outdoor exercise under supervision. This outside space should have secure fencing and safety precautions as necessary.
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General guidelines for a rabbit with an enclosure:
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Living space: 16 square feet minimum
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Exercise space: 24 square feet minimum
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Exercise time: able to run and play at least 30 hours per week
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Social Requirements
If the rabbit is going to be alone (i.e. without the company of people, a cat or other household pets) for the majority of the time, we recommend that the adopter adopt a second rabbit as a companion for them.
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Spaying and Neutering
All HRS rabbits are spayed or neutered prior to adoption. Visiting rabbits seeking a friend from HRS must be spayed or neutered prior to introductions.
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Returns
​If an HRS rabbit has no choice but to be returned, they must be returned to our Chapter. Because our foster homes have limited space, please give the us advance notice when possible. Returns require that a foster slot opens to accommodate a new rabbit.
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Exchanges
HRS does not exchange rabbits. Exceptions may be made when an adopter is seeking a companion for their current rabbit, but the match is unsuccessful.
Adoption Fees
Adoption fees are considered donations and are non-refundable. As a federally recognized, tax-exempt nonprofit, your support helps us care for rabbits just like any donation to a public charity.
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Continue to the Adoption Application or view all of our adoptable bunnies.
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Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about adopting from our Chapter.