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 Other Animal
Information
Exotic Animal Rescue Service
E. A. R. S.
E.A.R.S. is a rescue organization for reptiles and parrots, and has many animals for
adoption.
E.A.R.S. takes owner surrendered animals and cares for them until we are able to adopt
them into good homes.
E.A.R.S. has a referral service available, and also has information available for
boarding, grooming, and training.
E.A.R.S. voicemail: 800-659-3680
San Benito County contact: 408-628-3614
E.A.R.S. Adoption form
You can just print this and fill it out.
Reptile Handling
As with many other animals, reptiles carry Salmonella bacteria which can make
people sick. To reduce the chance of infection, follow these safe reptile handling steps.
- Always was your hands thoroughly after you handle your pet reptile, its food and
anything it has touched.
- Keep your pet reptile in a habitat designed for it; don't let it roam around the home.
- Keep your pet reptile and its equipment out of the kitchen or any area where food is
prepared.
- Don't nuzzle or kiss your pet reptile.
- Keep reptiles out of homes where there are children under 1 year of age or people with
weakened immune systems. Children under 5 should handle reptiles only with adult/parental
guidance. And they should always remember to wash their hands afterwards.
** Taken from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
A Quick Guide to Rabbit Care...
...because bunnies need more than carrots and a cage.
Rabbits are intelligent, social, and cute animals who make wonderful companions.
The problem is, too many people think of them as "low-maintenance" pets, when in
reality they require lots of care and attention. Whether you've had a pet bunny for years
or are about to bring one home for the first time, follow these simple guidelines to keep
your rabbit happy and healthy.
Caging.
Like all companion animals, rabbits should be kept inside with the family. Although
rabbits should be given supervised run of the house, they need a place of their own for
security and quiet time. Rabbits' cages should be spacious to give them room to exercise
and stretch out. For a 6-pound rabbit, the cage should be at least 24-inches wide by
18-inches high by 24-inches deep. A large cage, however, is no substitute for
socialization and running time around the house.
Housetraining and Bunny-proofing.
You can help make housetraining easier for your rabbit by placing a litter box inside the
cage and at least one outside the cage, too. Before you let your bunny run around the
house, make sure all electrical cords are concealed. Rabbits are natural chewers, so give
them chewing material to deter them from chewing furnishings.
Handling.
If you have children, supervise them with the rabbit and make sure they never pick the
rabbit up by the ears or let the body hang (a rabbit's weight must always be supported
with another hand). A rabbit's natural instinct is to be close to the ground, so try
sitting on the floor until your rabbit becomes more comfortable being handled.
Feeding.
Provide your rabbit with fresh water daily, and clean the water bottle frequently. When
feeding your rabbit, remember that moderation is the key. A rabbit's diet should consist
of a reputable brand of pellets; greens such as parsley, dandelion greens, and carrot
tops; and small quantities of snacks such as golden raisins, shredded wheat, and dried
bread. Never feed your rabbit lettuce, tomatoes, cabbage, or table
scraps; these foods can cause bloat and diarrhea. Make sure your bunny has fresh hay
available at all times for chewing and roughage.
Health Concerns.
Bunnies have sensitive respiratory and digestive systems. Because rabbits cannot vomit and
are susceptible to fatal blockage, it is essential they be fed a proper diet and be
groomed regularly to prevent hair balls (use special grooming tools, never scissors).
Because your rabbit's teeth grow continuously and are susceptible to a condition called
malocclusion (improper bite), you must check the teeth regularly. To learn more about
rabbit health concerns, consult your veterinarian.
Spaying and Neutering.
Spaying or neutering your rabbit not only helps fight rabbit overpopulation, but also
improves litter box habits, corrects chewing behavior, and decreases territorial
aggression. Have your rabbit sterilized between 3 1/2 and 6 months of age by a
veterinarian experienced in rabbit care and surgery.
Supplies.
Housing: roomy cage, resting board, litter box, pellet bowl or feeder, water bottle,
chewing material (such as untreated wood approved for rabbits). Foods: fresh pellets,
fresh water, limited treats (veggies, fruit, barley, oats, crackers), hay (for chewing and
to aid digestion), multiple enzymes (to aid digestion and prevent blockage), and petroleum
laxative (for passing hair). Grooming: flea comb, brush, and toenail clippers. Cleaning
supplies: dust-free litter (or paper-product litter), scoop, broom/dustpan, white vinegar
(for urine accidents), and chlorine bleach (for disinfecting).
HOLLISTER ANIMAL SHELTER
375 FIFTH STREET
WEST END OF SOUTH WEST
HOLLISTER, CA 95023
(408) 636-4320
Provided by The Humane Society of the United States
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