Honoring Rabbits for National Bunny Day

Each year, the fourth Saturday of September marks National Bunny Day — a chance to recognize not just the soft, sweet companions we know as pets, but also the resilience of rabbits everywhere.

This year, we celebrated two very special survivors: Johnny Ringo and Doc Holiday. These rabbits spent nearly seven years in the Environmental Protection Agency’s animal testing lab before finally being retired. Their journey was not an easy one — Johnny endured chronic foot sores, a painful mass on his leg, recurring eye problems, and constant stress. Doc faced scabs, alopecia, ear wounds, and the daily struggle of cramped cages.

But because of dedicated advocates and a successful push to close the EPA’s in-house animal testing lab, both rabbits were freed. Today, Johnny and Doc are finally able to enjoy the simple joys every rabbit deserves — soft bedding, safe space, fresh food, and gentle hands.

Why Rabbits Matter

Rabbits are incredibly social, intelligent animals. In the wild, they live in groups and build complex burrow systems called warrens. As pets, they thrive when given enrichment, safe spaces, and companionship. Sadly, they are also among the most commonly abandoned small animals, often surrendered when families underestimate their care needs.

National Bunny Day reminds us that compassion should extend to all creatures, whether cats, dogs, rabbits, or beyond. Every animal deserves freedom from suffering and the chance to live a life filled with safety and love.

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📸 Have you shared your life with a rabbit? We’d love to hear your stories — send us a photo of your floppy-eared friends, and you may see them featured in a future post of The Whisker Weekly!