Rabbit Handling and Examination Guide

Safe Handling of Rabbits

• Initial Handling Position
  • Right hand under chest
  • Left hand under hock area
  • Clear legs from the table to prevent nail injury
• Lifting and Holding
  • Grasp shoulders but do not scruff to avoid skin tears
  • Lift front end first, support back end securely
  • Scoop rabbit under the arm, ensure back legs are secure and not dangling

Placing and Posing the Rabbit

• Returning to Table
  • Grab shoulders (not scruff)
  • Set down back end first, then gently lower front
• Posing
  • Face the rabbit toward the judge
  • Cover the head with your left hand
  • Align each front foot under eyes, and back feet with hock
  • Pull out tail, set ears per breed standards
  • Smooth coat by running hand down the back

Examination Process

• Ear Check
  • Assess ear base for thickness and cartilage
  • Check inside ears for mites, note tattoo in the left ear
• Eye Check
  • Look for signs of blindness (rabbit should blink)
  • Confirm eye color matches breed standard
• Nose Check
  • Ensure no discharge indicating illnesses like snuffles
• Teeth and Throat Check
  • Check teeth alignment, look for malocclusion
  • Inspect dewlap for lumps or abscesses
• Legs and Nails Check
  • Ensure front legs are straight
  • Confirm five nails on each front foot, none broken or missing, correct color
  • Check back legs for straightness, hocks for soreness
  • Confirm four nails on each back foot, check for damage or incorrect color

Additional Checks

• Sex Check
  • Look for abnormalities, signs of disease or discharge
• Tail Check
  • Inspect for straightness, check for breaks
• Ear Carriage and Meat Inspection
  • Verify ear tips are correct for breed
  • Focus on shoulders and loin for meat quality
• Coat Check
  • Ensure it meets breed standards with no excess

Conclusion of Examination

• Repose the rabbit after examination
• Note: Depending on state and contest regulations, examinations may be conducted non-verbally.