MOST IMPORTANTLY, there are things you reallyy have to check for when you see them. Two **'s means very important, one means optional.
**Check poop and bottom for stuck pellets and diahrea.
**Check nose for runny or thick white, clear, or yellow snot. ABSOLUTELY do not get them if they have this going on, it's called Pasteurella and eventually kills the rabbit and others around it.
**Check teeth to make sure they are aligned properly.
*Check conformation if she is going to show.
**Check feet for sore hocks.
**Check for bald spots and dandruff. That means the rabbits have mites which are fairly difficult to rid them of.
**Check for abscesses.
**If the rabbit has matted or wet fur on the inside of the legs, do NOT get it. Also a sign of Pasteurella or Bordetella.
And, of course, make sure she will enjoy them.
A rabbitry is hard work, and if you breed Hollands you have to be aware of peanuts, which are rabbits who do not develop and have to be culled (i.e. whack them on the head, she has to be prepared for this type of stuff with Dwarves) or they suffer and die. She will most likely run into quite a few of these.
Raising rabbits is NOT all fun and games, it's hard work. And you have to do a lot of research, a TON of research. When breeding, you usually loose a lot through the years. I lost... 4 kits my first time. It can really stress and overwhelm a kid. But, then again, a lot of things that have to do with rabbits are very fun.
Good luck. You can PM me any questions.
