×

Covid - 19

In response to recent COVID-19 concerns, we are writing to assure our clients that we are taking recommended precautions. We have implemented our "Curbside" service. When arriving for an appointment or to pick up medications, please call us to let us know you've arrived. We will come get your pet, or deliver your medications to you. Dr. Hilary Christner is now accepting telemedicine appointments! Download the Televet app to get started.

Televet
Close

Would you like to switch to the accessible version of this site?

Go to accessible site Close modal window

Don't need the accessible version of this site?

Hide the accessibility button Close modal window
Accessibility View Close toolbar
Menu
  • Home
  • Patient Center
    • What to Expect
    • Payment Options
    • Resources
      • Veterinary Resources
      • Veterinary Topics
  • Services
    • Small Animals
    • Large Animals
    • Equine Medicine and Reproduction
  • About Us
    • Our Staff
    • Gallery
  • Contact Us
  • Request Appointment

(260) 463-2157

  • Home >
  • Articles >
  • Choosing Your Pet >
  • Small Mammals >
  • Rabbits >
  • Handling and Restraint

Handling and Restraint

  • Created in Choosing Your Pet, Small Mammals, Rabbits, Choosing Your Pet, Small Mammals
Image of girl holding rabbit.

Improper handling may cause serious, life-threatening injuries. Fractures and dislocations of the back, most often resulting in paralysis of both rear legs, are the most common injuries. These injuries occur when rabbits are suddenly frightened and attempt to escape from a small enclosure.

A rabbit's spine is relatively lightweight and fragile. When a rabbit becomes frightened, it violently struggles by powerfully kicking its back legs. The lightning-fast movements of the rear legs cause overextension of the lumbosacral (lower back) region of the spine, which frequently results in fractures or dislocations. One should never try to overpower a struggling rabbit. If a rabbit violently resists physical restraint, it should be immediately released and approached later when it has calmed down.

A soft-spoken, relaxed approach with rabbits works well. Covering the eyes and lightly stroking a rabbit will usually result in a hypnotic-like trance that often renders them less prone to panic and injury. Rabbits should never be picked up by their ears. If you are concerned about being scratched by the claws, place a towel over the rabbit's back and wrap it around the body to restrain all 4 feet before picking up the rabbit. An alternative method of picking up a rabbit involves sliding one hand under its breast bone and grasping both front legs between the fingers of this hand. The other hand is then gently worked under the rear quarters to fully support them as the rabbit is lifted upwards, in the same manner as cats are held.

  • Pet Health
    • Chronic Conditions
    • Digestive and Oral Health
    • Diseases and Viruses
    • Pests and Parasites
    • Orthopedics
  • Today's Veterinarian
  • Choosing Your Pet
    • Cats
    • Dogs
    • Finding Your Pet
    • Exotics
      • Reptiles
        • Lizards
        • Turtles
    • Small Mammals
      • Rabbits
  • Living With Your Pet
    • Bringing Your Pet Home
    • Providing Care
    • Travel
    • Saying Goodbye
  • Newsletter Library
    • Fleas & Parasites
    • Equine
    • Visiting the Vet
    • Seasonal Topics
    • Pet Dangers
    • Nutrition & Food
    • Recognizing Illness
    • Cats
    • Keeping Pets Healthy
    • Tips for Pet Owners
    • Behavior & Training
    • Newsletter Archive
      • Fun with Pets
      • Unbelievable Pets
  • Video Newsroom
    • Health Topics
    • Technology and Science
    • Other Interests

Location

Find us on the map

Office Hours

Appointments Hours

Monday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-11:30 am

1:00 pm-4:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Saturday:

8:00 am-11:00 am

Sunday:

Closed

Hours of operation

Monday:

7:30 am-4:30 pm

Tuesday:

7:30 am-12:00 pm

1:00 pm-4:30 pm

Wednesday:

7:30 am-4:30 pm

Thursday:

7:30 am-4:30 pm

Friday:

7:30 am-4:30 pm

Saturday:

7:30 am-12:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

LaGrange Veterinary Clinic Logo

Call Us Today!

(260) 463-2157

Location
Request Appointment
  • Copyright © 2021 MH Sub I, LLC dba iMatrix.
  • Admin Log In