We've had a pet bunny for years. His name is Buddy, a miniature Holland Lop, and at 11 years old, he has already surpassed the average life expectancy for this
type of rabbit (8 to 10 years). Buddy is not your typical bunny—he’s a house rabbit with the freedom to roam our home, never caged, and loved beyond words.
He’s especially adored by our daughter Amanda, who picked him out from a bunny breeder when he was only 8
weeks old.
Recently, Buddy gave us quite a scare. He stopped eating, became listless, and seemed really sick. Worried, we rushed him to the vet, only to find out that Buddy has developed kidney problems. This news brought an unexpected change to our routine.
We now have to supplement-feed him with Pedialyte and critical care food (which looks like a green slushie and supposedly tastes like papaya...although it doesn't smell like papaya) through a syringe three times a day. Each feeding takes about 20 minutes and requires cleanup afterwards. The photo at the top of this
article is Buddy getting ready for his syringe feeding. Though Buddy is now back to nibbling on hay, greens, and kibble, he’s begun having potty accidents, which means more clean-up.
Despite the extra care and the looming reality that we’re on borrowed time with him, we find comfort in knowing Buddy isn’t suffering. He still loves
to cuddle and is full of the gentle, loving spirit we’ve known for years.
In fact, Amanda paid $400 out of her own pocket to fly home from college for the weekend he was really sick...just to be with him. She said she would regret it forever if something happened
to him and she wasn’t there to comfort him. That’s how much he means to her—and to all of us. (The photo at the bottom of this newsletter is Amanda snuggling with Buddy.)
How to Adapt When Life Throws You Extra Work
Caring for a sick pet can feel overwhelming. Suddenly, there’s more to do, less time, and a lot of emotions involved. But there are ways to adjust so you don’t drown in the extra work. Here are a few things I’ve found helpful:
1. Cut corners where you
can. When life hands you more than you can manage, it’s okay to cut back on other things. Maybe this isn’t the time for elaborate dinners. A simple, quick meal like spaghetti and a salad can free up much-needed time.
2. Hire help when possible. There’s no shame in bringing in help, especially during times of
extra stress. A cleaning service—even if just once or twice—can lighten your load and keep your home in order without the added pressure of doing everything yourself.
3. Prioritize what truly matters. While Buddy’s care has taken center stage, I’ve realized that it’s okay to let some things slide. Maybe the laundry
doesn’t get folded immediately, or the yard doesn’t get mowed this weekend. It’s important to give yourself grace.
4. Delegate tasks. If you have family members or close friends, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Even if it's asking someone to pick up a few groceries for you on their next shopping trip, having someone
else step in can make a world of difference.
5. Take breaks. It’s easy to feel like you have to do it all, but remember that self-care is crucial, too. Take moments to sit down with a cup of tea or go for a short walk. Even small breaks can recharge you.
Adjusting to a new routine isn’t always easy, but it’s important to remember that you don’t have to do everything perfectly. Life is full of seasons, and sometimes it’s okay to let go of some responsibilities while you tend to what’s most important—like a sweet bunny who’s given us 11 years of love and joy.
