Tru-Luv Rabbitry

We Have Moved!

2010-03-11T23:51:00.002+08:00

Dear reader, please be informed that I will no longer post on this blog. In case you did not know, Tru-Luv Rabbitry has moved to http://truluvrabbitry.com or http://truluvrabbitry.wordpress.com.

Thank you for being a loyal reader/follower, bunny business as usual on the other side. See you there!

Lop For The Sake Of Lopping

2010-03-07T09:03:00.001+08:00

It's been a while since I write long ramblings and I just read a post in the local forum that basically pushed my patience to the brink of explosion. It just goes to show that no matter how much it is discussed in an open forum, words are mere words and can never penetrate thick skulls.

I have chosen to keep my comments to myself since it is a total waste of time trying to advice.

For the past few months, Malaysians have been introduced to a breed called "LOP EAR". What a loose name to refer to rabbits with ears falling or drooping. If you have done enough research, the two words "LOP EAR" is used to refer to the LOP BREEDS.

Do you know how many types of Lop Ears there are?

French Lop, Meissener Lop, English Lop, German Lop, Holland Lop and Miniature Lop just to name a few. So I am pretty much very confused because some breeders label their rabbits LOP EAR and there is always this "LOP EAR FOR SALE".

The reason for this is because to a certain extend, TLR has highlighted that not all are Holland Lops. So as an easy way out, breeders found it more convenient and "safe" to just use a general term "LOP EAR".

Honestly, whenever I see "LOP EAR" it only shows me how ignorant and ill informed the breeder is. And it is obvious that the breeder himself or herself do not even know what breed is being put up for sale. I am also convinced that it is a form of DECEPTION to get those unaware to purchase these rabbits. I wonder sometimes if it is right religiously to deceive in business. Well never mind that because rabbits are made for our "rezeki" or profit.

That being said, even each lop ear breed has got a standard to adhere to in weight and physical characteristics. For those who care to know and understand, here is a good guide to the Standard of Perfection for Holland Lops by James & Emily Meagher of Proud Ear's Rabbitry - http://www.proudears.com/standard.html.

It is better for me to just stop writing here. If only 50% of what I wrote here is understandable, it is good enough that I have put a message across effectively. And truthfully, I have no time for pet quality breeders. They are just a waste of time.

: "Hop for the sake of hopping, Lop for the sake of lopping"

Retro Candids!

2010-03-06T13:09:00.000+08:00

: Boy #1

: Boy #1

: Boy #1

: Boy #1

: Boy #1

: Boy #1

: Boy #2

: Boy #2

: Boy #2

: Boy #2

: Girl #1

: Girl #1

: Girl #2

: Girl #2

: What's up ya'll?

: The Forerunner!

: 3 tails and a head!

: Someone's out of line!

: That's a WRAP!

And off I went back to zZZZZzzzZzzzzzzz...................

Five Weeks Cuties

2010-03-02T23:11:00.001+08:00

: Boy #1 is absolutely awesome!

: Boy #1 - This is exactly what I am talking about. Just look at him pose here. This is exactly what I have in mind of a perfect HL kit.

: Here's Boy #1 again

: Boy #2 - He is not too bad but I'll like to see thicker and stumpier front legs

: Boy #2 - I kinda like the curvature on his head right now. Very cute little guy

: Girl #1 - The girls are not that spectacular right now. Quite a bit more to fix up but I hope they are worthy of being broods at the least

: Girl #1 again. Love the bones on this doe

: Girl #2 - Somehow her coat seemed to be softer comparing to the rest. I sure hope it isn't fuzzy

By the way, this litter is now known as the Tumble Falling Torts. They are just a clumsy lot and never fail to give me a rude shock with how they love "committing suicide" all the time!

Happy Week Ahead!

2010-02-28T21:37:00.000+08:00

There goes CNY and aren't we all in the blues as Monday arrives...

: Ignorance is BLISS, stay ignorant...

Bid For A HL Painting

2010-02-26T23:54:00.000+08:00

I am helping my dad to send 2 Holland Lop paintings to be auctioned at Loveland, Colorado in April 2010. It is in conjunction with the 2010 HLRSC Nationals hosted by Hollands & Friends.

We would like to thank Kay Miller for appreciating my dad's work and allowing us to share it with the rabbit world. We do hope that they will be well received and appreciated.

Have a nice Nationals everyone!

And for those of you who do not have the slightest idea why I am so obsessed with this bunny raising business, check out the video below.

Fabulous Fours at Fourth Week

2010-02-26T15:51:00.000+08:00

: Look at the smug on that face

I like all the kits born in Meadow Haven but this litter is the most amazing one thus far. All kits are pretty consistent on most of the traits. I have been told that breeders could tell if kits are different after spending some time and I believe this is what they meant. Somehow, they are just different. The best word I could use to describe this feeling is intuition. I am not sure but my guess is, if you know your herd well, this sort of feeling could be felt easily.

The kits weren't all cooperative today but here are some of the photos that I took this afternoon.

: Boy #1 - Absolutely love his bone and I would like to think that he is my Thunder Jr.

: Boy #1 - Front

: Boy #2 - Not too bad, I like his head most

: Boy #2 - Front legs not as thick as I want but he has got broad chest

: Girl #1 - She is darker just like her mommy. I like her head too.

: Girl #1 - A keeper for brood at least

: Girl #2 - She is such a baby but has got big head

: Girl #2 - Pretty lazy when it comes to posing

For now, I'll like to keep and hold on to them for much longer.

And for those who are interested to have show quality pets, please drop me an email at truluvrabbitry@gmail.com. I have a couple of RETIRED Show Quality Does (IMPORTED) to pass along.

Massive!

2010-02-25T00:08:00.001+08:00

I am too tired to take photos tonight but I got a shot of kit #2. I absolutely love this litter!!!

WOW!!!

: My BIG head dream come true!

Moshi Mishu!

2010-02-22T22:56:00.000+08:00

: What a cutie pie!

: Fiesty little girl!

: Don't you just love her?

Meltz....

2010-02-20T16:19:00.002+08:00

I am trying to refrain myself from bragging and showing off so much, but I just can't help it. I just need to share cute photos!

Today I had a little time to do a little photo shoot and the outcome was fantastic!

I could not recognize 2 of the 4 kits so I had to make a mark using permanent marker on their right ears. That will help me remember who's who - LOL!

: Kit #1

: #1 again, I totally love his flat face and big head!

: #1 striking a pose!

Then I place #2 on the table and boy did I get blown away!

: #2 posing well

: #2 cute bum shot

: #2 with a good front shot

: This pose of #2 totally blew me away!

: The cutest kit I have ever seen in my rabbitry!

#1 and #2 reminds me a lot of Thunder. I absolutely love this cross and I hope that many more will follow...

: #3 looks exactly like Brown Sugar aka Java even with the darker tone

: Bones and Head!

: Just can't get enough of them! #3 again!

Kit #4 is a pretty small. It has a small body with a huge head. So huge that it just can't keep its head up - LOL!

: #4 is the only one that did not need a mark. Just can't keep its head up - LOL!

: #4 just can't stop showing me the bum!

: So cute that you just have to squeeze it sometimes.....

These kits are by far the best that I ever had in a long time. I must thank Scott Rodriguez of Ivy Crescent Rabbitry and Teri Reymann of Sonshine Rabbitry for their sire and dam. Absolutely love this cross and will not think twice to do it again!

And by the way, I saw Tru-Luv Mirrhi today at my friends place while we went visiting. She has grown so much and I must say that she has quite a nice crown.

: Quite good for a local crossed...

And a little photo update on Tru-Luv Sibylla

: Needs wider shoulders and a better crown placement

: The slipped crown is pretty obvious here

I am keeping this girl as brood because for an F1 out-cross she is pretty decent. When you start off having below average quality you really need to work super hard to get to the quality. I am very glad that Miller's Clark has helped me shorten my journey tremendously. I am sure that by the time the Tru-Luv prefix fills up the pedigree, we'll be having some decent show quality stuff as far as COLORED Hollands are concerned.

The torts win hands down this round. Well, Clark's a tort too!

Deep Thoughts

2010-02-17T23:51:00.000+08:00

How much can one possibly write about rabbits? What happens when you have possibly written most of the important topics? I guess we move on to those unimportant ones?

Two words captured my attention today as I scroll through the social networking website - Pet Blogger. I start to wonder how does one qualifies to be a Pet Blogger and I search deep within myself asking that question - Am I a Pet Blogger?

First of all, I must say that the real definition of a Pet is actually in a singular form. The purest form of keeping pets as hobby is to have one animal at any point of time. With that said, I must admit I do have an obsession over rabbits in their plural form. My problem is that, I can't just keep one.

That brings me to the question of whether a breeder that blogs can be considered a Pet Blogger?

I believe that we breeders walk on a very thin line and it always come back to the question of whether breeding comes first or pet comes first. Most of the pet people I know share the same obsession regardless of the species that they keep as pets. They just can't have one. We know the consequences and most often than not has experienced losing our pet in its singular form and the result, disastrous!

So what sort of stuff do a Pet Blogger write about? How many times does he or she have to write "Fluffy eat kibbles today" before readers get bored of the blog? What is the essence that drives people to keep on coming back to one's pet blog? I really do not have the answer but I am sure it does get a little boring at times.

To be honest, with so many cute photos posted on this blog, it is hard not to fall in love with the Holland Lops. In the past 3 years, I have had 2 incidents (that I know) where my blog caused my readers to acquire my rabbits on impulse. Everything was perfect until the rabbits actually went home and the just don't seemed all that interesting as how it is for me - LOL!

Just like any other species kept as pets, it does take some effort to make the hobby a worthwhile one. You just can't bring Polly home and expect her to ask for a cracker can you?

This is exactly how the term Pet Blogger is for me. It depends very much on how one would want to "recognize" or categorize a person as a Pet Blogger. In my opinion, anyone that writes about animal(s) that he or she keeps, is a Pet Blogger.

Now, I am finding it really difficult to write "Haley took some pellets today, Haley had some Timothy Hay today, Haley slept for 4 hours, Haley drank some water, Haley pooped & pee-ed". Gosh! Just imagine that here and I am sure in no time I will have no reader visiting this blog. But that is actually how it is in Meadow Haven. Everyone is very laid back, with me doing most of the chores of course. And I cannot possibly write "I clean rabbit poop and pee today, I clean more cages today and I clean more litter pans today" right?

So what sets this blog apart? Is it the way that I write? Is it the photos that I post?

I really don't know but it would be cool to have someone come up to me and say, "Tim, you've got a flair for writing". I remember very clearly 2 people that actually said that to me and I do keep those words close to my heart. One was way back when I about 11 years old. It was my tuition teacher that taught composition. She said that I had good imagination and I was good at expressing my thoughts through writing. And the other is still a dear friend I hold closely to my heart. She was my supervisor when I was working part-time back then. She said, "Tim, you've got a flair for writing". It didn't really mean that much to me back then but today, writing is such an important channel for me to express myself. I do get flattered to get some occasional praises for writing well but I do doubt the distance that it can bring me. In this world, it is all about appreciation. If one appreciates Holland Lops, they will put a value into the rabbits. If one appreciates art, they will put a price to it. If one appreciates car modification, they will put an exhaust pipe big enough to fit a coconut in it!

I am really glad that my blog is able to build bridges. People around the world is able to understand what I am trying to say. The irony is that, sometimes I get fellow countrymen that do not understanding a single thing that I write.

I know this entry is a little random (that is why it is categorized as Random Topics). You guessed it right, I am basically expressing myself right now. I am actually sitting here thinking when was the last time that I actually blogged. Has the direction of my blog changed for the worst?

One thing is for sure, I am not writing as much in terms of sharing my knowledge because as time goes by, it felt like spoon-feeding. I realized that people will not appreciate what they get easily. With that said, prices of my rabbits are skyrocketing for sure - LOL! No free lunch people. You want the best, you pay the price - BWAHAHAHAHA! Oh, how I love the art of deterrence.

Before I stop my crap talk, I just want to share my own definition of a Pet Blogger:

1. You write so much that you lost track of time (I was suppose to check on the bunnies like 30 mins ago!)

2. You are always looking for opportunity to show off your pet(s) on the blog

3. You (not me) brags about your pet(s)

4. What you write has more entertainment value compared to substance

5. It seemed as though there is something profound between you and your pet that you must write about

6. Money is not the obvious and underlying reason you blog, you don't have an entire herd of rabbits to sell and everything that you write is plainly and simply based on passion

Thank you for joining me on this whacky post. It's been a while...

Three weeks torts

2010-02-16T14:19:00.000+08:00

It has been a really hectic weekend and beginning of the week. I absolutely love the traffic around KL these days and I hope everyone just don't Balik "from" Kampung.

Before I move on to the good stuff, I am sad to say that we lost Knee-Yo on the 1st day of CNY. We found him dead in the cage when we returned from reunion dinner. I am not sure what really happened to him but I suspect the cause of death is cardiac arrest due to loud noises. A week back when I was using the vacuum cleaner, I noticed Knee-Yo running and crashing unto the sides of the cage. I had to stop immediately. I believe that he must have gotten a scare from the loud firecracker noises. I dread leaving the bunnies alone every Chinese New Year due to this reason. Anyway, I tr not to allow this to dampen my spirit in the midst of this festive season. R.I.P. Little Knee-Yo.

On the other hand, the little torts are growing up well and they are so very cute right now. They are really feisty and bouncy. I finally found some ideas for props so that my pictures wouldn't look so plain. Unfortunately, they ended up eating non stop and showing me their bums instead!

Here are some photos and I hope you like them.

: Caught red handed for polluting the food bowl!

: Another one checking me out!

: Don't you dare invade our food!

: Synchronized chewing...

: The littlest of the litter

: All in a row...

: It's hard to take a perfect picture

: I love my Chubby Pets Garden hay!

Happy Chinese New Year 2010 Everyone!

2010-02-13T00:55:00.000+08:00

I believe that I finally have something long to write and with loads of photos. Since it is a joyous occasion, I would like to spend some extra time posting a long one. This is my birthday treat to everyone!

First up, I am sure all of you remember this post and will definitely remember this photo:

I am glad to announce that after almost 5 months and 2 litter of babies, THUNDER IS BACK!

: Ohh La La!

: A little more and he'll be complete!

: Isn't he CUTE?

And I wonder how many of the little torts would be like him. Either way, I am pretty sure they will be good stuff!

: They just can't stop moving!

Sibylla is growing up pretty too. Right now she has a little "drain" in the middle of her head where the white patch is. There is a huge crater on top of her head in between the ear cartilages.

: Can't wait for her to finish her molt

Since I setup my backdrop near where the FurryButts are, I just can't resist the temptation to snap a few photos of them too. First up was Buttons. She is so huge that she practically took up the entire platform. She is approximately 4x Sibylla's size. If she gets any bigger, she can pass as a Flemish Giant. She is just so nice to cuddle with. So much meat!

: And she can pose too!

Bailey on the other hand is a very shy boy. I think he misses Hans a lot and part of his confidence seemed to have faded away. I take time to handle him everyday for at least 10 minutes but there isn't much improvements. He loves his little box very much.

: Shy guy

Then we have little Yohji boy. It seemed like yesterday when Yohji was born. It was a very cold rainy morning. Unix had her little of 6, let me recall their names Yohji, Bandie, Adinna, Floppie, Mirrhi & Kiki! Their father was Lumix. It was Unix' 1st litter and all of them survived.

: Unix

: Lumix

It was my first attempt to develop the Holland Lops using the local lop ears and I must say looking at Yohji, I was pretty close. He has nice crown and has decent bone on him. He could easily pass off as a normal or brood buck.

: Yohji the vain pot!

: Another cute shot of him

I should have added some mandarin oranges as props but I believe Buttons and Yohji is "orangy" enough for such a joyous occasion.

Here wishing everyone A Happy Chinese New Year, Gong Xi Fa Cai and travel safe throughout this festive season!

My Biggies

2010-02-11T22:28:00.000+08:00

: Thunder Jr.

Do, Re, Mi, Fa...

2010-02-09T21:19:00.000+08:00

: Satu, Dua, Tiga, Empat LEKUK, Siapa gatal saya KUTUK!

FurryButts @ Meadow Haven

2010-02-07T22:41:00.001+08:00

Since we are unable to get updates from http://furrybutts.wordpress.com, we brought the entire clan out and parked them at Meadow Haven - LOL!

That just doesn't sound right at all. The truth is that SB will be away for the Chinese New Year celebration and Buttons, Yohji & Bailey just do not have anywhere else to go. Honestly, I do not normally take it boardings but I just can't refuse the FurryButts! So here they are and boy am I glad to have them. The three of them will be so pampered and my first project with them is manicure and pedicure - LOL!

Does that mean that I am not gonna have a life come CNY? Oh well, isn't it the year of the rabbit? LOL!!! You guessed it right, I am having a Tiger Bunny year!

I just hope that Buttons and Yohji will get used to the smaller space that I am providing for them. Here are some pics of them and I sure hope they do them justice!

: Bailey getting used to the new environment

: I am a house bunny you moron, why am I behind bars?

: Buttons striking a pose like the usual

Rock-A-Bye Babies

2010-02-07T17:56:00.000+08:00

To tell you the truth, I just can't recognize these 4 individually. It is hard to even recognize twin just imagine quadruplets. Whenever I see these 4, it is as though I see stars after hitting my head on the wall (I don't normally do that but you get what I mean).

: Don't they look angelic?

: My little big sleepy head...

: Another little sleepy head

: Perhaps a little drunk?

: And a little itch!

: And off I go! (Eye of the tiger music please)

Tru-Luv Knee-Yo & Tru-Luv Sibylla

2010-02-06T12:17:00.001+08:00

: Damn, he's looking HAWT!

: Just done having a head molt. Can't wait to see her bloom!

Quick Preview

2010-02-04T14:20:00.000+08:00

Just a little sneak peak for my readers on some of the new additions at Meadow Haven...

Black Beauty

2010-02-01T22:52:00.000+08:00

: That is north and this is south...

: Tired...

Superstars!

2010-01-28T23:53:00.000+08:00

I don't know why I have chosen this title but Superstar by Luther Vandross seemed to be one of my favorite songs. Anyway, it is very early in the morning right now and the real reason is that I just can't think straight let alone come up with a good title for this post.

Tried capturing photos of little Knee-Yo this evening. Trust me when I say it was the most excruciating photo session ever! My camera just can't register the black object in him. Poor me and poor him. But thanks to some pointers from a dear friend, I was able to capture a few decent photos of him. Didn't I tell you that there is perfection in the midst of imperfection? This is so true when Knee-Yo's blind white eye was the only contrast my camera could capture. Thus, these photos are much clearer.

: Do you believe me now how difficult it is to capture a black bunny?

: Could be better...

: Heli"chopter" ear...

: Love this cutie...

I also capture some photos of Sibylla who needs to get her head puffed up with fur.

: Acting cute!

: Looking more like daddy...

: Could be better with higher head mount

Java a.k.a. Brown Sugar was cam-whoring for me too. I can't resist so I snapped some of her too...

: Give me a little pat on the head will ya?

Everlasting Hobby

2010-01-27T12:00:00.000+08:00

Some of the Holland breeders I know have been raising rabbits for the past 30 years or so. I really have very high regards for them because of all the experiences acquired through the years. I dare not estimate how long I will be in this hobby but I do hope it will last forever.

But for many I dare say it is just a passing phase like anything and everything in their lives. Hobby in its real definition is something to occupy one's free time. It is sometimes referred to as Favorite Pastimes. And I wonder what happens to pets when there is no time - LOL!

It is very easy for us to forget that when we bring a pet home, our lifestyle changes for better or for worst. The pet becomes so intertwined with our lives that special arrangements must be made and most of the time, many considerations must be made with our beloved pet in mind.

For most of us, when we find ourselves in need to prioritize, our pets would be the very first to get booted.

I was at the bookshop last evening browsing through the pet magazines. It is already 2010 and all I see are pet magazines featuring only CATS & DOGS. It is very sad and it is as though, there isn't any other species fitting to be pets.

Is it because rabbits are highly dispensable?

Rather let a cheap rabbit die than to spend vet fees that could cover the cost of 10 other rabbits?

Rabbits are smelly? - this is the biggest stigmata and myth attached to rabbits to date!

And the list goes on and I am sure everyone has something bad to say about rabbits. An average age for a rabbit is 7 years.

My hope is that those having and will be having a TLR rabbit last at least for that 7 years in the hobby. It is not a sacred wedding but at least promise the little rabbit that you are about to bring home "Till Death Do Us Part" like how you would tell it to your spouse on your wedding day.

"Till Death Do Us Part"

Pop!

2010-01-26T13:33:00.000+08:00

: Dare you put your hand in there. It brings you to a whole new world...

I am very pleased. Very very pleased...

YeahooooOOOOOoOooooooooOOooooooooo

Tru-Luv Knee-Yo @ Week 3

2010-01-26T12:34:00.000+08:00

Little Knee-Yo is 3 weeks old today and such a cutie filled with a zest for life.

: The perfect side

Unfortunately, we all know the irony of raising Hollands. If it wasn't for one problem, it would be another. I noticed that his right eye is a little cloudy the moment it was opened. I have been applying an ointment but to no avail. It is definitely sad because I have so much high hopes for this one.

I am sure there is always perfection among imperfections.

: The imperfect side

Tru-Luv Sibylla: 3 months, 6 Days

2010-01-23T14:48:00.000+08:00

: Time really flies, can't believe she's 3 months already

: I'll prefer better head mount, shorter ears and wider shoulders

Tru-Luv Knee-Yo Day 15

2010-01-20T17:27:00.001+08:00

"Black till it shines", said my wife.

That's exactly what this 15 day old is. Among other traits that I notice is the wideness & short ears. I hope they stay that way. At this age, nothing is for certain. Right now anything can look like a miniature Thunder. LOL!

Enjoy these photos...

: Love the paws!

: Shorty ears!

: Cute?

: Gentleman?

: Lazy little fellow...

: Hi, down under!

Karate Chopped Hay Anyone?

2010-01-18T16:25:00.000+08:00

Most of the time, at the end of each pack of Timothy Hay, I will usually find a little or more loose hay and sometimes they are almost in powder form. The boys and girls at TLR absolutely hate these loose hay and they couldn't be bothered with me saving up for them. Most of the time, these chopped hay ends up in the dustbin.

: Hay Ya! Chopped Hay

The reason why we feed hay in their normal "long" form is to help motility or should I say gut movement. You see, when a strand of hay goes through the rabbit's mouth, it is not "chopped" but the chewing causes it to soften and thus most of the time, they are ingested with a bit of length. Just imagine having a long leaf going through the intestines in the peristalsis process. The leaf will "flow" through like a little worm and that motion keeps the rabbit's stomach moving and moving. That is exactly what we want.

So what is the use of these "chopped hay"? Totally useless and marketing tells us that they are less messy. Sure, the rabbits don't even touch them and you just dump the entire crock filled crap into the dustbin. NO MESS for sure...

I rather have hay messing up my cages knowing well that my rabbits have taken their daily doses of hay and not spend a single cent in junk called "Chopped Hay"...

The Run's Back!

2010-01-16T22:38:00.000+08:00

After almost a month without the run, it is finally back in business. I was having problem with rabbits digging up newspaper that I line underneath the wood shaving beddings. I finally stop procrastinating and bought a piece of huge wire mesh to line the bottom of the play pen so that they will not be able to dig the newspaper up.

: Wonder how long the cleanliness will last...

Also, glad to announce that baby Knee-Yo has its eyes opened today. Thanks to the tip given by a dear friend, I gathered my little family around to welcome this little kit into this world when I gave it a help opening its eyes. It is good to help at day 11 if they are still closed to avoid blindness. As I split the eyes open, we whispered "Welcome to the world little one". Thanks Colleen for this wonderful "tradition" that I will sure to practice for the rest of my rabbit raising days.

: Can you see my little bunny teeth?

Another thing that I noticed is how unavoidable it is not to have black colored Hollands in my herd. Honestly, I do not really fancy black Hollands all that much because it is so difficult to capture photos of them. Unfortunately, black is one of the most dominant color if you go through color genetics.

Then again, who cares about color when type is all we need? I hope Knee-Yo will turn out well.

: As you can see, it is very difficult to capture photos of a black rabbit

Bon Voyage Tru-Luv Balian

2010-01-16T16:21:00.001+08:00

If there is one rabbit that I'll probably regret not keeping at this moment is Tru-Luv Balian. I don't mean it in a bad way though. I wish he was a doe so that I could keep him for the breeding program. But all is well and good because he is now proudly owned by a little girl, Meg & her family. Meg's mom has agreed not to neuter him in case I need to use him as a stud. But if he do not behave (bringing down the Golden Shower or play target practice), there goes his precious jewels.

I felt it was appropriate to let Balian go because I still have both his parents and two herd bucks are all I need at the moment.

Both these kits will be 3 months old tomorrow and I took a few photos of them.

: Having a head moult at the moment

: Looking good

: I really love this little guy

: A nice little bunny for a cute little baby!

: Little perky guy!

: Already being spoiled rotten with a nice cage & lots of hay!

: Being curious and adventurous

Rabbitry Prefix

2010-01-15T14:30:00.000+08:00

I am practically laughing my *ss off right now while rolling on the floor at 100 mph - LOL!

I came across some wannabe websites/blogs that uses their own rabbitry prefixes on rabbits that aren't bred by them. Let me give you an example. Let's say someone buys Tru-Luv Sibylla from me, the rabbitry prefix should remain as Tru-Luv not Wannabe Sibylla!

It really cracks me up and baffles me when I see some so called "breeders" buying some rabbits that does not come with any predigrees putting up their rabbitry name as prefixes. Totally embarrassing.

The rule of thumb is, these prefixes are suppose to tell others of the origin of the rabbits. It tells people who their breeders were.

When I purchase 2 rabbits from different rabbitries, it does not mean that they take on the prefix of my rabbitry just because I am the owner. The prefix will always remain as the breeder's rabbitry name.

Only when I breed these 2 rabbits, their offspring will carry my rabbitry's prefix. For example, if I breed Clark to Haley, Clark remains as Miller's Clark and Haley remains as Ivy Crescent's Haley. Their babies will have the prefix Tru-Luv because they are the product of my choices for breeding. That means that I deliberately breed Haley to Clark through conscious decision.

It is as simple as that and you do not go about putting your prefix on every single bunny that you purchase. And you do not go using other rabbitry's prefix either!

And most importantly, you do not fake the rabbit names & prefixes on the pedigree!

Get it right, WANNABE!

All Things Cute & Beautiful

2010-01-13T00:01:00.001+08:00

I grew up with a lot of cute things around me. I really appreciate cute and beautiful things just like any ordinary person. There is no wonder why even as an adult, I cannot help but to be attracted to cute things and somehow these cute things kept on appearing before my eyes - LOL!

As you can see, I don't have much to say. I believe that sometimes bloggers do write tons of crap too!

I know, better show some photos eh?

: Alf, Gizmo & Garfield - Aren't these cute?

: Java loves cute ducky too!

: Haley likes to look cute too!

: A cute kiss from Sibylla? Muakz!

: Ready, Set....

: Break Dancing bunny anyone?

Taking Orders Now!

2010-01-12T10:16:00.006+08:00

Dear Bunny Lovers (I presume you did not stumble across my blog by accident),

I am currently planning out for a shipment of rabbits scheduled in March/April 2o1o. I have put much thoughts into this and felt that it would be the best for the rabbit community in Malaysia at large. Most of you have expressed interest in owning fully imported rabbits and this could be the best arrangement to help everyone out!

Most of you are not willing to pay (of course!) but at the same time want imported qualities and also only 1 or 2 rabbits (to try out). So the best thing to do now, is for us share out the shipping cost.

Advantages include:

1. You get cheaper rates compared to shipping alone in small amount

2. Quality & health will be assured as we will help source out with your interest on mind

3. No more outrageous rules & regulations imposed by breeders i.e. only MALES available

4. No more outrageous prices for sub standard rabbits

5. Reliable sources

6. Delivery to your doorstep (Klang Valley)

Procedures:

1. Email me truluvrabbitry@gmail.com (serious inquiries only!)

2. Agree upon budget

3. Sign an agreement (ship at own risk)

4. Pay the amount agreed upon

5. I will source and show photos of rabbits picked

6. You agree on rabbits

7. I get them shipped and deliver them to you!

Disclaimer clause(s):

1. Ship at your own risk

2. Qualities of rabbits commensurate with prices! We work on the "PAY PEANUTS GET MONKEY" basis!

3. Prices of rabbits commensurate with the DISTANCE needed to TRAVEL too!

4. We can help source for good OTHER breeds (i.e. Netherland Dwarfs, Lionhead, American Fuzzy Lops, Jersey Woollies, Mini Satin, Mini Rex, Californian & etc) too!

5. We can arrange for shipping to countries outside of Malaysia too! Foreign friends please email me!

Now, let's flood me with emails and more importantly, let's get GOOD STUFF!

*P.S.: PLEASE EMAIL ME!!! I WILL NOT ENTERTAIN COMMENTS ON THIS POST!

Happy 1st Birthday Truffles!!!

2010-01-12T00:33:00.002+08:00

Today is Truffles birthday and I left his photo at home!

: Our handsome Truffles

Happy Birthday my dear Truffles! You're always a CHAMP!

My Little Tru-Luv Knee-Yo

2010-01-11T22:54:00.000+08:00

: Day 6

Miss Independent please stand up! Put your hands up!

Tiramishu's day!

2010-01-10T19:29:00.000+08:00

Had a great day messing with Tiramishu today. She is so darn cute and small!

: Mishu all relaxed

: Such a cutie!

: She likes posing on my lap!

Trust Me, They Are Only 12 Weeks Old!

2010-01-09T11:46:00.001+08:00

I am glad that my blog statistics is back to normal now. Really baffles me how the heck it went up to 1229 hits for yesterday alone. I hope it will get there on a daily basis and TLR do get up to 1229 fans - LOL!

Anyhow, decided to have a little photo shoot of the kits. Posing them on the table makes me feel that they have both grown up as they no longer look like babies to me but in fact they are only 12 weeks old.

Hope these photos will brighten up your weekend!

: Tru-Luv Sibylla

: Cute?

: That's what they call bone?

: Tru-Luv Balian is too awesome right now!

: Do you agree?

And BTW, here's one of Thunder's kits:

: Another cutie in the making!

Knee-Yo & So-Sick

2010-01-08T00:55:00.000+08:00

: Ne-Yo conquered!

What a spectacular concert by this person I dub to be the next Michael Jackson in the making. There is no chance for Simon Cowell or Paul Moss to pick on pitching at all! Every single move, every single note and every single beat right where they are. I am a very critical person as all of you know and I was actually looking out for the slightest glitch in this concert, NONE! The band was good, the dancers did not bother me at all and the weather was perfect!

The next black kit born in TLR will be called Tru-Luv Knee-Yo and the next peanut will be called So-Sick cause they are usually dying.

I noticed that Ne-Yo dedicated this concert to the late Michael Jackson. It is definitely a night to remember. And honestly, I am too old for Ne-Yo ya'll....

Back's aching and I am a little deaf right now. But deaf enough to hear Thunder singing to each and everyone of his girlfriend:

she's staring at me i'm sitting wondering what she's thinking...
nobunny's talking, cause talking just turns into screaming...
and now as i'm yellin' over her, she yellin' over me..
all that that means, is neither of us is listening...
and what's even worse is that we don't even remember why we're fighting...

so both of us are mad for, nothing..
fighting for, nothing...
crying for, nothing...
but we wont let it go for, nothing...
no not for, nothing...
there should be, nothing...
to a love like what we got, oh baby...

i know sometimes its gonna rain...
but baby can we make up now cause i can't sleep through the pain...
girl i don't wanna go to bed, mad at you..
and i don't want you to go to bed, mad at me...
no i don't wanna go to bed, mad at you...
and i don't want you to go to bed, mad at me...

A Far Cry

2010-01-06T10:09:00.000+08:00

Before 2009 came to a close, I sorted out all the pictures I have taken of my rabbits and something caught my attention.

Let's take a closer look to what caught my attention:

: One of my Ol' Skool broodies!

OMG! Can you believe it?

Now compare that to this:

: Big difference right?

The funny thing is, I now realized how difficult it was back then for my Holland Lop breeder friends to comment on my rabbits. For instance, back then Laurie was the only person I knew through her blog and each time I asked her to evaluate my rabbits, it seemed really difficult for her to comment. But she did point out the good points that my rabbit have and also I knew how much work is needed to get to where I wanted to be. I truly understand what a difficult position she was in at that moment! I found this really funny and hilarious.

Just imagine if you're driving a BMW and someone comes and ask you about the Sang Kancil. It is just 2 different leagues and it would be very difficult to pass judgment as both have their value and worth on different levels.

Have a nice Wednesday everyone!

We've got Thunder's babies!

2010-01-05T21:44:00.001+08:00

I am so happy to announce that we finally have babies out of Ivy Crescent's Thunder. YeahoooOooooo...

: I just love that sight!

Another good news is that, wordpress.com has added statistics for the Home Page and I am getting more accurate hit counts to my blog now. YeahooOOOooo....

Auspicious Tattoo Numbers!

2010-01-02T13:54:00.001+08:00

This time around, I tried my hands on using 4 digits tattoo numbers for Balian and Sibylla. Did I say 4 digits!? Oh yeah, the favorite weekend past time for most of us here in Malaysia and also in many other countries is buying the lottery numbers. In Malaysia, we have what we call the Unholy Trinity in the name of Magnum, Toto & Da Ma Cai.

Since I am going to use 4 digits for their tattoos, I figured that I must use auspicious numbers in order to fit into our gambling culture or addiction. Today, I peeled off the dried ink on both their left ear to reveal my success!

If you can make out the numbers, make sure you run to the nearest lottery shop to bet on these numbers. And if you win, I hope you come get your lucky bunnies!

And if you thought that only the Flowerhorn (Cichlids) fishes are capable of revealing numbers, think again. Here are some numbers for you!

: Sibylla

: Balian

P.S.: TLR do not encourage gambling. Kids don't try this at home (I mean the gambling) !

A cup of tea to greet 2010

2010-01-01T12:28:00.001+08:00

I always admire young entrepreneurs especially those that uses their creativity in their venture. I recently struck a conversation with someone on my chat list that I have totally forgotten about and came to know that he is in an interesting business. He deals with printing but not the conventional type mind you. I believe he has been around for quite a while and only recently that I took notice.

After browsing through the samples, I thought it would be nice to get a little "customized" mug for myself. I am proud to say that I now own a truluvrabbitry.com mug - LOL!

How cool it is to wake up every morning to have a cup of tea looking at my bunnies!

I always enjoy a good service and Samuel was kind enough to go through all the interesting facts about his business at great length. What I love most about his business is the convenience. I don't need to budge from my seat because his is an online business. All I did was to send him a picture and transfer some funds through the internet and my customized mug arrives in 2 working days!

What a lengthy post just to talk MUG? Here's some photos and as usual, Carmel as a good model. LOL!

: Isn't this cool?

: Just look at the pretty model - LOL!

: Full view of the cup!

: Conclusion, satisfaction guaranteed!

For customized mugs, please visit http://cysgift.blogspot.com/ and for BUNNY MODELS/CAM-WHORES, please email truluvrabbitry@gmail.com !!!

* MUGS & BUNNY, each sold separately!

Happy New Year To All!!!

2009-12-31T16:45:00.002+08:00

The Reputation Of A Breeder

2009-12-31T00:15:00.000+08:00

As 2009 draws to a close, I would just like to explain why it is important for me to pass along my rabbits to trustworthy people. I have gone through a lot of local rabbit websites and weblogs. They are all appalling. Tons of mixes will be hitting the market really soon and on a constant basis.

Tru-Luv Rabbitry does not only carry the name Tru-Luv Rabbitry. My rabbits are tattooed and comes with a 4 generation pedigree. Together with this pedigree lies the various rabbitry names in the lineage. Not only my reputation is at stake, the reputations of all those names are also at stake.

Take for instance when an idiot (breeder wannabe) buys my rabbit and breeds it into his/her local stocks, I am sure as a marketing strategy, he/she will give the lineage a good mention too either verbally or through their incomplete pedigrees. In so doing, it only tarnishes our reputation and in the long run will hurt really bad.

Bear in mind, Tru-Luv Rabbitry and all other SERIOUS rabbitries only breed for quality. If ever something bad crops up, gone are these names into the dumpster. I believe this is the very reason why most breeders cull their unsatisfactory stocks too.

So here is what you should always look out for. Make sure that the pedigree is complete with 4 generations of rabbits listed and a tattoo on the left ear. These are but a few controls that TLR practices and I hope that no counterfeits are produced out there.

Dear breeders, our reputations are at stake and we cannot control the action of others, but at least take up the responsibility to steer the lost onto the path of righteousness!

Happy New Year everyone & everybun!

Poor Dasher

2009-12-30T15:41:00.001+08:00

I got a little bored today and SB suggested that I go let one of the bunnies loose. I did just that and ...

: I come, I see...

: Beth shouted, "Dad dad, take him away!"

: Santa said, "Ho Oh No No, poor Dasher!"

Beth said, "Dad dad, my reindeer is wet..."

Oooops!

: "Santa, I feel violated!"

Better feast for the eyes

2009-12-30T10:56:00.000+08:00

Did I also mention that 2010 will see better quality pictures for TLR? I have been stretching the capabilities of my Canon PowerShot A710 for far too long and you must have noticed I no longer take photos in the evening as they turn out extremely bad.

A blogger's best friend is a good camera. My wife and I decided to get ourselves a Canon EOS 1000D code name (Rebel XS). I love the word Rebel because that's what I am (as what my mom calls me) - LOL!

Here's my first attempt using my new toy:

: goo goo gaa gaa

: squeeeEeeeezeeEeee

: ho ho ho

: I'll bite!

: As cute as Orlando Bloom!

If there isn't much difference with my previous pictures, then it is user's problem ok? LOL!!!

#1 2010 Resolution Under The Microscope

2009-12-29T15:01:00.002+08:00

2009 brought about a great wave in terms of interest in Holland Lops. Like mushrooms sprouting throughout the nation, every lop ear rabbit is labeled as a HOLLAND LOP. Let me just share with you a photo I took at a famous pet shop on the eve of Christmas eve.

: Left To DIE!

Who to blame? I say you and I, WE have a role in the death of this poor bunny. We all know the simple facts of business - demand & supply. In the midst of fulfilling demands, edges are cut to earn a little more. DISPOSABLE is what rabbits are today! Just like a novelty toy, a rabbit is so disposable because it is cheap. It is alright to have them die because there are many more available out there! At the front of this renown pet shop, it is WRITTEN big and clear - WE CARE. And it also has something seemed to be the 10 commandments of the advantages of having PETS and "teaches children responsibility" is one of them. They won't be any responsibility lesson if the poor pet keeps on dying on the poor child!

Yes, my friends. all our hands are tainted with blood because of this LUST for MONEY. It is a vicious cycle.

2009 again saw a year of great demand for Netherland Dwarfs, Dwarf Hotots and Holland Lops. Did we fail in our execution in marketing and awareness? Is there an imbalance between education and money making? Did we not get the message across clearer than before?

Between year 2007 & 2008, we covered the basics in the local forums. We were shouting for HAY and brands like OXBOW. So we have them today.

Today, a few days before 2009 ends, I cannot help but to feel that the road ahead is much more treacherous than before. Indeed, we need to find a balance to the force. Breeder wannabes are labeling their lop ear rabbits as Holland Lop just like how once someone did that and have caught so many unaware. Ill informed men and women who are blinded by mere "cuteness". How are we to deal with this?

You see, like the earth, we need to find balance. I have raise this point many times and I am writing it again. We are about to overpopulate our country with rabbits. What QUALITY of rabbits do we want to see in our future? Do we settle merely for what we call "PET" quality or do we strive to do better?

Many local rabbit weblogs stated very clearly that "Animals are creation of God, and we govern over them". Yes, we govern over them and we must decide what GOOD we make of them! Even the cow has got good use for its meat! Do we allow our beloved pets to live in filth to be bred in horrendous conditions?

For the past 2 days, after a long time not wanting to visit some depressing local rabbit weblogs, I browse through a few of them and I couldn't help but to feel really disappointed that we are indeed back at square one. We all hope that these wannabes do the RIGHT thing.

My wife puts it in very simple perspective. Everyone can afford to stay in any hotel but not everyone can afford staying in a BOUTIQUE hotel. Applying that to the world of rabbits, it would mean that everyone can own a Holland Lop but not everyone can own exclusive purebred Holland Lops!

I am indeed glad Tru-Luv Rabbitry has not bred many rabbits in year 2009 but for each bred and raised here, they are at least of decent quality. QUALITY NOT quantity my friends. Whether you like it or not, I love to brag because in bragging, someone else will find it hard to accept and in that, I hope they improve! Tolong jangan DENGKI & JEALOUS!

Stop believing hearsay about what rabbit should look like. Go get a copy of the Standard of Perfection from the organization of your CHOICE and compare that with your stocks. If they aren't close enough, you should just stop whatever you are doing! That's if you are working with purebred. But then again, there isn't any in betweens because in my books, a breeder's 1st objective is defined with only 1 word, IMPROVEMENT. Ask yourself what is there to improve in your breeding program and that will spark off the first notion of awareness. Move on to seek clarification and embrace CHANGE!

I love each and everyone of my rabbits whether they are with me or those that I have shared out with fellow enthusiasts. I look at them and my troubles go away and in my heart, I could tell the wannabes, YOU WILL NEVER BE ME!

Here's Balian and Sibylla, bidding everyone Happy New Year 2010!

: Tru-Luv Balian

: At least we have bone now...

: Tru-Luv Sibylla

: THICK!

My dear friends, the #1 2010 Resolution for me is indeed to again EDUCATE the general public how it is like to find a responsible breeder and to avoid BACKYARD BREEDERS.

: Look through my eyes, there is LIFE within me

Happy New Year 2010

2009-12-27T22:33:00.001+08:00

It is the time of the year again that we all have our personal reviews and resolutions for the coming year. Before mentioning the resolutions that I have for year 2010, I would like to review the objectives for year 2009.

And the indicators are:

BLUE -ACHIEVED

GREEN – IN PROGRESS

RED – ACHIEVED BUT NEEDS IMPROVEMENT

2009 Objectives:

1 ) Chocolate Holland Lops

Had a major setback when I lost Seychel but I am sure the chocolates will pop up in future.

2 ) Continue promoting ethical breeding & responsible ownership

3 ) Making more bunny friends around the world

4 ) Importing nicer foundation stocks

An objective met and I must say a hundred fold thanks to all the help of great friends namely Scott, Kay & Teri.

5 ) Praying harder to have constant Oxbow supplies

We have another brand available and my herd no longer depend on just Oxbow.

6 ) Renewing HLRSC membership

7 ) Continue posting on a daily basis with quality contents

8 ) Continue sharing quality Holland Lops at reasonable prices to highly intellectual individuals (LOL!)

Can't say that I have shared much lately due to less production. Not complaining at all.

9 ) To master color genetics

Took a little U-turn to fall back on working with TORTs. Color can wait

10 ) Revamp Meadow Haven

Done deal!

What year 2010 holds for TLR? Here are some of my major resolutions for year 2010:

1) Continue producing the best Holland Lops in Malaysia.

2) Working with another breed.

3) Continue moving forward faster so that the rest would keep up even faster!

4) Educating the general public and raising awareness of differences between the original Holland Lop & the counterfeit.

5) Help MROC take off to greater heights with new and lasting leadership and participation.

I'll just stick with these 5 objectives for now.

Happy New Year 2010 everyone!

Merry "Bunny" Christmas!!!

2009-12-23T15:08:00.000+08:00

Technically, this is the 2nd last post for year 2009. I will be taking a little break this holiday season so there will not be any post till after Christmas. I believe the next issue of the MROC Newsletter would be delayed because most if not all my fellow committee members are so busy with their own vacations.

From all of us here in Meadow Haven, we would like to wish everyone the Merriest of Christmas. May all stomach be filled with great food and stockings filled with ipods, handphones and many interesting presents.

Cheers to all!!!

* background photo courtesy of Cheri Bushee (love ya mom!) of Dovehill Rabbitry

Not Forgotten

2009-12-22T09:36:00.000+08:00

Though there is much hype surrounding the rabbitry for the past few days, it may seemed that I have forgotten about my babies. No, I have not!

Here are some photos taken today of Balian and Sibylla:

: She is looking better as each day passes. Not that cooperative this morning with a little low head mount

: He is really going into the "uglies" stage

The Future of TLR

2009-12-20T01:30:00.001+08:00

As all of you already know, I constantly make improvements in the rabbitry and am not afraid to try out new things. For that reason, I really want to express my heartiest thanks to Teri & Stephen Reymann for sending me 2 of their finest rabbits. They arrived safely today and I just picked them up at the airport. Everyone and everybun is dead tired so please forgive me if the rabbits do not seemed to be posed well. They needed much break too after the long journey and believe me, these photos really do not do them justice as far as posing is concerned.

My Christmas has just been completed this year with the addition of this 2 wonderful rabbits! I have been toying with the idea of owning a Netherland Dwarf and I can't resist any further. Sonshine's Goodie Two Shoes (Tiramishu) is such a beautiful Black Otter Netherland Dwarf. She has got at the most 1.5 inches of ears!

Sonshine's Brown Sugar (Java) is a hot tort Holland Lop babe that has really chunky bones. She just blow me away every time! And she's a lot of personality already!

: I should have uploaded this earlier!

: Don't you just love her?

: I love the upright SHORT ears!!!

: Chunky!

: Really short ears!!!

: I love her, REALLY!!!

: Love the crown and curve!

: She's filled with personality right now!

: Hawt BABY Java!

: I am hugging her to sleep!

Look out for more SURPRISES coming in near future!

Carmel as sweet as caramel

2009-12-18T14:07:00.000+08:00

I sometimes wonder how breeders with over 30 rabbits in their barn chooses their favorite bunnies. I am very glad that each and every rabbit that I have raised and owned so far is my personal favorite in their own special ways. I feel very fortunate to have a herd of rabbits where each and everyone is my favorite. It is so hard for me to answer the question of which is really my favorite because my heart is basically equally divided for each and everyone of them.

Today is Carmel's day out and after giving her a little brushing, I decided to take a few shots of her. I found that she is very hard to pose but if left alone, she poses very well naturally. She'll always give me the "don't touch me, I know how to do it myself" kind of look whenever I try to pose her.

I know it has been quite monotonous as I have been posting a lot of show pose photos of the rabbits. I thought of sharing some candid shot of her. It is pretty hard to get candid shots of her because she is such a natural poser. LOL!

: My favorite side profile of Carmel thus far...

: I like to squeeze her really tight!!!

: Just love the crown and the cute ears!!!

Tru-Luv Balian & Tru-Luv Sibylla

2009-12-18T00:05:00.000+08:00

The movie Kingdom of Heaven starring Orlando Bloom happens to be one of my favorite movies of all time. I have decided to rename Papadoom to Balian and Mooruku to Sibylla.

: Tru-Luv Balian

: Tru-Luv Sibylla

In Search Of New Names

2009-12-16T11:16:00.000+08:00

The time has finally come to rename these 2 babies and they are suppose to be tattoo-ed anytime now but I have yet to get 2 more digits that I need so tattooing just have to wait a little while longer.

I don't feel so well today so I am not gonna crack my head for new names too. I'll just put that idea behind my mind and will get to it soon.

Here's some photos of the 2 cutie pies...

: Mooruku's side profile

: Looking really cute!

: Will get better in time...I hope...LOL

: Papadoom's side profile

: Front, I am loving it....

: My favorite photo of him thus far

Hope they grow into their ears. That would be nice...

When It All Begins: The History Of Tru-Luv Rabbitry

2009-12-14T20:52:00.000+08:00

Just a blink of an eye, almost 3 years has passed since I set my eyes on the first Holland Lop on the internet. It was The Nature Trail's Rio that got the ball rolling. Prior to discovering Holland Lops on the internet, my interest in this breed started way back in year 2000, which is 3 years after the first edition of Encyclopaedia of Rabbits & Rodents by Esther Verhoef - Verhallen (ISBN: 1840530677) was published in 1997.

: It was that 2 cute Holland Lop kits that start it all

If you ask me today, I would say that it is strange that the book mixed both rodents and rabbits together but back then it did not cross my mind that rodents and rabbits are under different subclasses. I felt it was a complete guide for a pet lover like me and I still think this book ROCKS! The rabbit breeds written were mostly European breeds and I am very glad that the Holland Lop got a very thorough mention.

Being a pet lover, the pets section is all that I paid attention to whenever I visit the bookstore and the bookstore happen to be one of my favorite hang out places. I happen to have purchased this book back in 1998. I also have my parents to thank for nurturing this interest and love for animals in me that now I find to be one of the most important characteristics a child has got to acquire especially in this world today.

I bred my first pair of rabbits at age 8 though I started having pets much earlier. We have ornamental fishes all the time as my father have a huge pond with Japanese Koi in it. We also have dogs all the time as they guarded the house very faithfully.

: Memories

Come to think about it, I have always kept my rabbits in separate cages. In year 2000, I actually got myself a little lop ear doe with my meager allowance and this little doe was vicious. She has got the worst attitude. The last rabbit from that herd of 5 passed away in year 2003 and I did not have any rabbits since until end of 2006.

Thinking back, rabbits really were and will always be the joy of my life. Wonder how life would be without rabbits. Glad that I still have this wonderful pet today. I believe rabbits will always be apart of the family in many generations to come...

: Isn't that precious?

Ivy Crescent's Haley

2009-12-12T14:22:00.002+08:00

I noticed that I have not written much about this doe that will be the heart of my herd. If asked what is the perfect example of a Holland Lop that I have in mind, I'll definitely point to Haley's head. I share the same preference with Scott Rodriguez' idea of how a Holland Lop's head should be. Scott always mentioned that a Holland has got to have a head and I couldn't agree more. Look at Hollands that place in most shows today and you will notice the massive heads. I strongly believe that a Holland Lop's head is what makes it "bulldoggish". Together with a massive typey body, it creates the cutest of all rabbits.

Every breeder breeds for certain styles and I love the heads on the rabbits that Scott breeds. Each time I see Haley, I feel really proud to have her. I wish that I could continue developing this trait in my lines.

: At last, a decent side profile of Haley!

: Isn't she the cutest bunny?

: A heas so massive, it is easy to mistaken her for a buck!

Week 8: Uglies!

2009-12-11T09:39:00.000+08:00

Sorry that I have not been posting photos lately. It is very hard to take decent photos of the babies right now because the camera makes them uglier than they already are. But I believe they are really growing up nicely and I observe so many different characteristics on them as compared to my previous litters. One of the major difference is that these 2 little fellows are really small at 8 weeks.

Here are some my favorite photos captured this morning.

: Papadoom acting cute!

: Total disapproval?

: From another angle

: Side profile

: I like the stumpy front legs

: I am loving this little doe very much

: Nice side profile?

Emotional Attachment

2009-12-10T16:08:00.002+08:00

I came across this article entitled Why One Veterinarian Quit, Disgusted With a Profession He Once Revered and found it rather interesting. I am sure many show rabbit breeders would agree with the point this person in question is trying to raise. Most show rabbit breeders have no compassion for defects. The competition to produce the best specimens is very stiff and the weakest links are always discarded.

I believe pet owners have a part to play in vets being too engrossed in saving unnecessary lives. I have never believe in saving a suffering life. If an animal is suffering, it should be put down humanely and immediately.

A couple of years back, my dad found 2 kittens still suckling on their dead and rotting mother. Turned out the 2 kittens were also injured due to attacks from rival male cats. We found them with punctured wounds and maggots were coming out from these wounds. We brought them to the vet and he helped us clean up the wounds. The wounds on one of the kittens were so deep that we thought the only way to end its misery was euthanasia. Its sibling did not make it either as it succumb to the injuries a few days later.

We all do have emotional attachment to our pets. To a certain extent, I believe the main cause for humans to have strong emotional attachment to their pets is due to the fact that in this era of complex socialism, pets provide more solace than a fellow human being. The emotional attachment is so strong that sometimes it clouds us from understanding the real purpose an animal is brought into being.

Like us, every animal in this world has a purpose in life.

A friend once asked me what can a dog do for me. I found it hard to answer his question. His point of view is that we should have an animal in our lives only if it can provide us with some sort of "service". For example, a dog is suppose to watch and guard properties from trespassers.

We have evolved and so have animals. In today's luxurious world, pets no longer have their roles to play. Most if not all are pampered furry companions. Is this a man made market or we are finding the need of affirmation that only animals could provide?

To what extent would you hold on to a pet's life when it is suffering? Is it merely an attachment or obsession?

Week 7: Weanlings!

2009-12-06T17:34:00.003+08:00

I was at Jaya One today for the Pets Day Out event. A big congratulations to the organizers for doing a great job bringing pet people together. I saw many scorpions, tortoises, snakes which are among the exotics besides from the regular dogs, cats and rabbits. I was there to give my little moral support to Pet Epicure and their "cats for adoption" drive. For those who are interested or know people who might be interested to adopt cats, please drop by Pet Epicure's website. We were in time to watch the dog obedience demo. I think the Silky Terrier deserves a super obedient award.

The only thing that I didn't like about the event happen to be the deplorable sight that I witnessed in one of the booths where more than 20 baby rabbits were cramped into 3 feet cages each and a cage with some underage kits. I thought they look rather underage and felt pretty fed up to even take photos of them. So much has been said and I believe enough have been said. I later obtained these photos from a friend who happen to be there as well.

: These are probably 2 weeks old (max) baby rabbits and probably from larger mixed breeds.

Look at the white/gray one. You can roughly tell that it is underage because its fur has yet to "fluff" up. And as a comparison, here's Mooruku at Day 12, you can see a little similarity:

: The bigger one right in the centre is probably the only bunny that is almost 6 weeks old

Please note that I am not trying to defame anyone. Just for awareness purposes as it will do both buyers and sellers good in the long run. If underage bunnies die in the hands of the buyers, it would give the sellers a bad name so I believe it is a win-win situation to get everyone educated and thus saving innocent lives too.

In TLR on the other hand, I weaned Mooruku and Papadoom off mommy at 7th week this weekend. They both now have their own space to grow up. They binky all the time and the cages make them look really tiny.

: Papadoom being inquisitive!

: Cute!

: And what do I get? She showed me her BUM! She ought to see how those poor little bunnies get cramped into a 3 feet cage!

Christmas props try outs #2

2009-12-03T21:16:00.000+08:00

It's been a while since I last took photos of Haley. What I like most about her is the massive head. She is very typey as well.

: Isn't she amazing?

: I can't wait to see how this one grow up to be

: I am really loving this one already!

Viral Hemorrhagic Disease (VHD) & Myxomatosis Alert!

2009-12-02T12:35:00.002+08:00

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: There is NO occurrences of the above mentioned @ Tru-Luv Rabbitry. I do not want this taken as an opportunity for nasty people to spread wild allegations and rumors so for the record I am just RELAYING information picked up through comments on my blog for the good of all RABBIT OWNERS in MALAYSIA in the good spirit of SHARING!

VHD and Myxomatosis is 2 very deadly viruses that affect rabbits. For more information please go to http://www.rabbit.org/care/vhd.html.

So far, there isn't any news about an outbreak in Malaysia but I received a comment yesterday by one Ms. Jean (http://truluvrabbitry.com/2009/09/04/malaysian-rabbit-owners-club/#comment-2997) stating that her rabbits are dying one after another without any symptoms.

I am not too sure if the Veterinary Services Department would have any information regarding any outbreaks and if they have the vaccines for it. Sometimes I do understand that rabbits isn't a top priority for most so it would be difficult to contain if an outbreak occurs. We as pet owners must be self sufficient and share the information to protect our loved ones.

Here are some preventive measures recommended by rabbit.org (taken from http://www.rabbit.org/care/vhd.html):
How to Protect Your Rabbits

House your rabbits indoors. We strongly suggest that they be kept indoors, or in enclosed environments. Rabbits who live or exercise outdoors are more at risk for contracting this disease.
Wash your hands thoroughly before handling your rabbits, particularly when you come home from places where other rabbits may have been, or where people who have been in contact with rabbits may have been. This would include places such as feed stores, pet stores, fair grounds, humane societies, etc.
Change your clothes and wash your hands after handling or coming in contact with rabbits. Wash these clothes twice in hot water before you wear them around your rabbit.
If you volunteer at a shelter, then have some special clothes and shoes that you wear only at the shelter. You may want to wear plastic bags over your shoes, secured with a rubber band. When you leave the shelter, remove the bags and dispose of them before you get into your car, making sure not to touch the outside of the bag. Follow clothes laundering instructions above, and shoe disinfecting instructions below. This protects the shelter rabbits as well as your own. The same considerations apply to anyone who sees rabbits at work and also has rabbits at home.
Adopt a "no shoes in the house" policy, or keep your bunnies from running in high traffic areas of your home. To disinfect shoes that may have been contaminated, you need to place the shoes in a foot bath that contains one of the following: 10% bleach solution, 2% 1-Stroke Disinfectant, Parvosol, or parvoviricide disinfectant. You may wish to speak with your veterinarian about how to obtain these. The shoes must be in contact with the disinfectant for at least ten minutes. The foot bath is recommended as it is important that during the ten minute disinfection time that the disinfectant remains wet. Merely spraying shoes with disinfectant and leaving them to dry is not effective.
Know your sources of hay and feed and if they are near areas of any outbreaks.
Minimize insects in your home by installing window and door screens. Eliminate mosquitoes and flies from your home.
Quarantine any new rabbit for 5 days. Always handle quarantined rabbits last, and keep all supplies for them separate from your other rabbit’s supplies.
To disinfect objects, use one of the disinfectants above, remembering that it must stay in contact with the item and remain wet for at least ten minutes.

UPDATES!

* if you are experiencing sudden death in your rabbits, please contact your State Veterinary Department, for SELANGOR, the contact number is +603-55103900 to inquire if there is an outbreak and get more information from them

I got this reply to the comment made by Ms. Jean from the Director of Rabbit Industry Council. Thank you very much Ms. Pamela Alley:

Hi, Jean–as Director of the Rabbit Industry Council, I’m very interested in hearing more about what you are seeing. What symptoms, how much time between deaths? What are you feeding/watering with? What breeds and what ages are affected?

RVHD is an OIE-reportable disease, so the Veterinary Services should be reacting with a bit more enthusiasm–contact your area’s government veterinary chief and if necessary, their superior in the agriculture and veterinary services.

Don’t let them pass rabbits off as unimportant! This disease (Rabbit Viral Hemorrhagic Disease) is very very nasty and can easily wipe out a majority of rabbits in the area.

The first step is to get a necropsy done by a veterinary service that knows what they are looking for; it is possible that members of the World Rabbit Science Association in your area may be able to help you with that. (Google the WRSA and ask the current president or secretary to help you find contacts near you.)

Some ‘trademarks’ of RVHD:
Deaths occur in animals over 8 weeks of age;
animals that are young may be ill but recover to become carriers for at least 1 month post-infection.
Death is sudden and may be accompanied by a scream and/or bloody discharge from the nose, mouth, eyes, or rear.
Losses are numerous and unaffected by ‘regular’ treatments such as antibiotics.
Necropsy findings include hemorrhagic lungs and liver with a reticulated pattern of hemorrhagic damage.

PLEASE DO NOT VISIT ANY OTHER RABBITRIES until you find out for sure what’s going on, and bleach your tires and shoes before and after going to the feedstore or other areas where others might pick up the virus (if that’s what it is). It is very very tenacious and tough!

Go to http://www.showbunny.com/RVHD/index.html for the full outline of the outbreaks in the early 2000’s in the US; the data there is likely to be quite helpful.

Good luck and please keep me posted!

Pamela Alley, RVT
Director, Rabbit Industry Council
Oroville, CA USA
RIC@cncnet.com

Day 45: Christmas props try outs

2009-12-01T21:43:00.000+08:00

Top on my Christmas wish list is a brand new DSLR camera. The reason is simple, just look at how bad these photos came out to be. They just do not do the bunnies justice. I need to engage some professional help soon!!!

Right now I really love Mooruku because at 6.5 weeks, she is showing some potential. Papadoom is just very weird or perhaps I should blame it on the lousy camera that I am using right now. I hate it when what I see is not what I get when I open up the photos on the computer.

: Papadoom is a PIG nosed Holland Lop - LOL! Some people see a heart shape though. I think the Christmas tree is uglier!

: MoooOOOoruku-licioussSSsss. Depth of chest, nice top line and wide shoulders that smooths out unto the hindquarter! Long ears is the only YUCK for me right now...

Bunny Pains #1

2009-11-30T21:11:00.000+08:00

I suddenly felt the urge of writing short stories today. Inspired by the successes of the likes of One Tree Hill and Sweet Valley High (I don't actually read them but was quite curious how my cousin got hooked on it), I hope this series will be a success among the youth breeders everywhere. I am sure you all can relate to the plots as we go through it. Maybe some of you may want to continue the plots for me as we go through. So here's the first serving of the Bunny Pains series:

“Tasha, don’t you think he’s such a cutie?”

“Move along now, will you? We’re here for Hollands National not New Zealand White National”

“It doesn’t hurt just to admire”

“Another minute and we’ll miss Baxtor being judged. I could see them in their coops already!”

Beth & Tasha hurried along to the Holland Lops section where the Solid Junior Bucks are being judge by Judge Roland Jones.

“There he is, I hope he get picked”

“Beth, look over towards Aunt Teri. There she is again showing you some signs with those filthy fingers”

“Come on Tasha, let’s not go there. It is just not worth our time”

“Beth, I wonder how long you’ll put up with her bad antics”

“Let’s just put it this way, she’s the last of my worries. Let’s hope Baxtor get his leg today, that’s all that matters right now”

“I bet sainthood is for you. I on the other hand, would not put up with such nonsense”

“She is probably bitter about every single thing around her. Didn’t you see how her mommy showed in OPEN with the same attitude?”

“Yeah, bad traits run in the family. You just need to cull hard!”

“You’re too funny. I really wonder how you cull bad people”

“You neuter them?”

The both giggled and silently watched while Judge Roland examined Baxtor.

“We have with us today ten very handsome bucks in the Solid Junior Buck class”

Putting his hands into Baxtor’s coop, Judge Roland pulled him out and posed him on the table.

“What I like about this little guy is definitely his head, the short ears and the great width on his shoulders. See how it smoothly goes down all the way to his hindquarters?”

He then pulled out another rabbit from its coop.

“I really like this little guy as well. I absolutely adore his front end especially the depth of chest seen here. I really don’t know, it is definitely a hard decision. But I would personally go for an overall good stocky body where more points are allocated”

Everyone was holding their breath at this point as Judge Roland announces the 1^st place Solid Junior Buck.

“1^st Solid Junior Buck goes to #10”

“Tasha, did you hear what I hear or am I hearing things?”

“I was about to ask you the same question. Can this be true? It is Baxtor!”

Tina looks on from across the show room with a heart fueled with anguish and envy. Beth and Tasha were too busy celebrating their victory as Baxtor went on to win Best of Breed in the Youth category.

To Be Continued…

Stay tuned for more plots from victory to sorrow as Beth and Tasha grow up together in the Rabbit Show room. Go through all the bashing, deceptions, bullying, backstabbing, joys, rejections and peer pressures as Youth Holland Lop breeders.

Day 43: Looking Back

2009-11-29T17:50:00.000+08:00

I am trying out some photos with Christmas backdrop. Hoping that I'll have time for a nice Christmas photo session for all the rabbits in Meadow Haven. Mooruku is indeed growing really pretty. I am starting to like her a lot compared to Papadoom. I am keeping my fingers crossed that they will develop nicely as time passes.

: Papadoom wasn't too happy to pose today - LOL!

: This is the most natural pose for today with a little ear control

: Don't mess with me!

Mid way through the photo session, our friend decided to play with the Christmas tree ornaments. Chewing on the synthetic leaves - LOL! Silly little fellow. While doing that, he showed me the BUM!

: Busy body!

: I truly understand why young bucks are not suitable for 4-H showmanship! LOL!

Don't you feel that it is Christmas already!?

: Not my favorite photo but this shows something I liked about Mooruku

: She's really cute don't you think?

: Best pose of the day!

: This is my favorite photo. It is very difficult to take photos of Broken Blacks with this camera and how clear the eye turned out really makes this my favorite! I like the blur effect too...

I was thinking how did these 2 kits fair at this tender age of 6 weeks as compared to kits I have in the past. This is one of the main reason why I love blogging as it helps me remember almost everything for me. I have very bad memory so I depend on this blog to tell me what has taken place in the past. And as comparison, here are photos of 3 other kits at 6 weeks old.

: Holly Hope herself

: Luna

: Moesha, she was really stunning at 6 weeks!

As you can see, Mooruku & Papadoom have very different look at this stage. It is way too early to tell. Let's wait till 3 months and then 6 months. There will be more development up to 24 months!

Day 41: Early Uglies!

2009-11-27T08:17:00.001+08:00

My poor old camera can only take decent photos during the day. The lighting seemed to be perfect this morning so I decided to snap a few photos of the kits. They have grown and especially their ears. I am totally in for short ears but I am not too certain what is the determining factor to the length of the ears - genetics or temperature. It is a fact that rabbits loses their body heat through their ears. The bigger the surface of their ears, the faster they can release heat from their body as they do not sweat.

My hope is that, their ears will grow longer/bigger faster but genetics would be the final determinant factor of the sizes. Which means, it is genetics that govern the size of the ears in whichever growth rate they are going through. I usually notice as the ears pull longer/bigger, the size of the heads are compromised. Natural selection takes generations to materialize but I am not sure if it is faster with rabbits.

: I knew Mooruku's ears will be shorter because it took longer for them to drop

: I like the bones!

: Will definitely give Papadoom time to grow up...

: Cute!

Round 2 of comparison goes to the Broken Black, Mooruku. I have got a feeling she's going to turn out to be an awesome doe!

I am going to just grow this 2 out and let them take their time to develop. The reason is because of this photo:

This is Clark when he was much younger. The 2 kits look almost similar around this age. And when he blossomed into a handsome buck, we know how he looks like right now don't we?

Very hopeful indeed....

Day 39: Change Is The Only Constant!

2009-11-25T20:32:00.000+08:00

The kits are changing everyday. They are growing up just like how I like them to be. I really wish I have a better camera to capture every moment. My old camera at the moment cannot take good photos at night.

I also want to dedicate this post to Mr. Bagus Amir for patiently waiting for photos!

: Isn't this cute!?

: This picture of Mooruku reminds me of The Nature Trail's Rio at 2 months. Could she be it?

I really do hope Mooruku will be like Rio - http://www.thenaturetrail.com/RiosPage.htm.

: A little to the sides angle...

: Almost a side profile..

: I love the depth of chest here!

And here come Papadoom!

: Oops, overposed!

: Now, that's more like it! What do ya think? A little long ears at the moment..

Farewell Skor, You're Always My Boy

2009-11-24T15:20:00.005+08:00

: My last chance to trance Skor...

With the heaviest of heart, I bid farewell to my favorite boy Skor. He shall begin his life as a very pampered pet Holland Lop with his new owner. Like any other goodbyes, the only consolation for me is that my boy Skor is promised a good home.

: Good teeth

I am very grateful that his new owner has contacted me and shown much interest. I count my lucky stars each time someone approaches me for my rabbits and it clicks right away. There are many things we feel with our 5 senses but there are certain things that we sense with our heart - SINCERITY & HONESTY.

: Clean vent

: His 4 digit tattoo

Skor has done his bit in providing us a few of his offspring that has brighten up a few homes with their antics and unconditional love.

My only wish is that, he will live his life to the fullest and enjoy every single day hence forth!

Go make me proud Skor boy!

: Another one to miss...

Pet People vs Show Breeder

2009-11-23T20:35:00.000+08:00

I was once very much a pet person. Highly compassionate and passionate about my pets that I was almost as fanatic as people in the organization that has a name that sounds like "PITA" bread. We now live in a very opinionated era where everyone has their own opinions and views. The followings are my view about pet people as observed throughout my 3 years of raising Holland Lops through the perspective of a show breeder:

1. Pet People are hard to educate

Pet people lack the knowledge and experience as compared to breeders of large scale. I have to admit that I still have much to learn as compared to my counterparts in US. Theirs are barns with 100 holes or more. They are so well versed with every single problem with the breed that it makes my biggest problem seemed petty. Coming back to this heading, I found that it is extremely hard to educate pet people not because the are stupid but most often than not, they rather believe hearsay and rumors. They fail to understand the facts most of the time.

2. Pet People do not know Holland Lops

Pet people go for cuteness first, quality 2nd. Somehow they have a weird taste or perhaps I should say, unshaped opinions. Up to today, many still do not know that a baby Holland Lop is cute, but CUTER as an adult. Many still do not know that some lines of Holland Lops take up to 24 months (2 years) to mature physically (overall outlook). All they know is the basic that rabbits mature at 6 months but little do they know that it is sexual maturity (and size) at 6 months! Give me a rabbit at 6 weeks and another at 2 years (and above), I'll go for the latter!

3. Pet people will give up at first try

The trick to Holland Lops is to never give up! There are too much challenges with this breed that many rather be spared from all the troubles. Good thing never come easy and if you can laugh at the face of adversities, then Holland Lops are your cup of tea!

4. Pet people wants everything in pairs

Pet people think of breeding first, basic care later. I normally laugh my head off now when people ask me for a pair of Holland Lops (and on discounted price!). It is so difficult to even get just 1 and they are asking for a pair. I used to be like that too and I could remember vividly how I was "grilled" & flamed for harassment! Now I truly understand why I was treated that way.

5. Pet people have no commitments

The same people that shout for animal rights and being all compassionate about their pets are the same people that will abandon their pets in the face of adversities and circumstances that they will eventually find excuses to justify. More often than not, pets in their hands will not last their lifetime. Sad but true.

6. Pet people are too good hearted

Between life and death, pet people will of course choose life. "Oh, it was so pitiful living in that condition, I thought it would be good I provide a good home for it" sounds all too familiar. Pet people are nice to the point of patronizing the exact establishments that they should not. Buying out of pity is far worst as buying on impulse! If you really understand the psychology between a seller & buyer, many irresponsible breeders will be out of business and thus, less animals have to suffer. Sellers at times thrive on pity. If you can't take the sight of seeing a poor little animal suffer, don't go to the pet shops! Just get your supplies from the shelves and go home. Many pet shops can survive without selling livestocks.

There you go, 6 golden pointers to not be a PET PERSON but a pet person with a better perspective. Take the initiatives to befriend GOOGLE. You'll be surprise how much you'll learn through that search engine. Don't believe anything that I say. Go find out yourself! It is fun for you to prove me wrong.

Toilet Habits Up Close & Personal

2009-11-22T20:19:00.000+08:00

Most rabbit people are very in tuned with their pet rabbit's toilet habits because empty litter pan normally spells trouble. I realized today that I am not only intuned with their toilet habits but I am also very familiar with how my rabbits use their toilets. Or should I say that looking at rabbit litter pans I am able to recognize the owners? LOL!

What I can conclude is that most of my rabbits are very good with their aims except for one. Let's walkthrough each litter pan shall we?

: You can see that the stain spreads further. Skor's very good with his potty...

: Haley is also very good with her toilet habits. Judging from the stain, she's very prim and proper...

: Clark has got 2 targets as illustrated by the stains. That's what you get being a playboy too, you have more than 1 choice - LOL!

: There is only 1 target for Thunder. He is spot on as you can see

: Notice all the names were written at the bottom of the photos except for this one? I will elaborate further...

Holly Hope is the funniest when it comes to toilet habits. She goes into her litter pan nonetheless but...her butt always faces outward. And due to that reason, half of her pee will be spilling out from the sides of the litter pan while the other half is what makes up the stains. Not sure if a bigger litter pan would correct this problem. I need to give that a try. LOL!

Update: Tru-Luv Camior

2009-11-21T23:44:00.000+08:00

I just received an email from Alicia with some very interesting photos of her garden pets. She wanted to show me how Camior was doing. Camior was a very low profile kit but I must say she has grown to be a very beautiful young lady. I especially like her crown. She lives in the garden together with Monty the Netherland Dwarf.

According to Alicia, Camior is a very sweet doe despite being intact.

: Enjoying the garden

: Stains are what you get when you go "off road" all the time...

Day 35: Mini Holland Lops Anyone?

2009-11-21T12:39:00.000+08:00

My wife told me that she likes kits at this age because they are small and cute. The 2 kits are exactly 5 weeks today and they are 1/4 the size of mommy.

Can't believe that in another 3 weeks they will be weaned off mommy. Here are some photos taken of them today.

: Mooruku's side profile

: Mooruku either having a tight crown or short ears. Either way I'm keeping her for the breeding program!

: Papadoom's side profile

: I hope this buck and replace Skor. Right now the ears are a little long in my opinion.

On the other hand, besides from their sizes, what I like most about kits at this age is the size of their poops! They are also 1/4 the size of adult bunny poop. Don't believe me? Check this out...

: Told ya'll so!

Day 32: Thankful

2009-11-18T20:53:00.000+08:00

Whenever I loose a litter of kits, looking at successful litters do give me the motivation to keep on working with this breed. Mooruku and Papadoom has grown so much now. In another 2 weeks they will be weaned off mommy's milk. Mooruku wasn't too cooperative posing for me this evening. Nonetheless, here they are:

: Still having ear control

: Cute eh?

: Depth of chest for sure. Hope it stays that way!

Meadow Haven = Area 51

2009-11-17T20:46:00.002+08:00

Holland Lops - the most difficult breed to raise. I must agree and I am not ashamed to say that I have seen it all. In the span of just a few months, I have seen the worsts of Holland Lops in terms of breeding. I do not enjoy the deaths involved but I definitely enjoy the challenges that comes along with this breed. I just couldn't believe that I am given the honor to experience it all.

Good news is, the rabbits are starting to produce again. Like a car engine, it is normally harder to start after a long and cold night. So as starters, I got 2 kits from Haley x Clark. These weren't ordinary kits. Haley's pregnancy lasted for 33 days (today) and I was glad she expelled the kits.

What I got was 1 fetal giant (yes, 7 inches long from tip to tail!) and I got a little cute MAX FACTOR (thanks Susie for pointing out that it is not a peanut). What a JACKPOT combination it is (that reminds me, I need to go check my lottery now - LOL).

With all these difficulties, I realized that I am only now starting to work with the purest of Holland Lops. Indeed and in case you didn't know, Holland Lops are also known as the freak of nature. They are nothing but natural. Developed through selective breeding, these are but a few traits that has been built into the breed.

If you think that it is easy to get Holland Lops, think again. It isn't that easy and count your blessings if you have one of those cute little droopy ear critters!

The following pictures are very explicit. These are photos that no breeders will share. This world isn't a perfect world so in sharing these photos, I hope they will serve as reality check for all of us.

: Comparing a Great Dane to a Chihuahua

: Bloated little fellow

: Isn't it cute? The only problem is, it's DEAD!

These are but a few problems that Holland Lop breeders face on a regular basis. If any Holland Lop breeder tells you that he/she do not get problems like these, it is as good as he/she proclaiming that his/her mother is a virgin!

If the little MAX FACTOR kit reminds me of anything at all, it would be...

: Gimli the DWARF!!!

Amazing Collages

2009-11-16T20:51:00.000+08:00

Thanks to Adesh for compiling these beautiful collages for me. Courtesy of ChestnutPictures.com...

Chestnuts Visit!

2009-11-15T00:55:00.001+08:00

Today TLR is very honored to have a very special couple visiting and taking photographs of the rabbits. As I have mentioned many times before, friends are the most important part of this hobby and along the way, I must say that I do not have many friends in this hobby but those that I have the privilege to befriends with are very special to me. I really appreciate the CHESTNUTS dropping by Meadow Haven. I do hope they both enjoy their short stay here (wasn't that short actually). Love the chat. If you like what you see, please visit their site and hire them at http://www.chestnutpictures.com/. I highly recommend them to everyone! Although I watermarked the photos with TLR, they are the rightful owner of these photos and due credit must be given to them.

Thank you Chestnuts and I am sure my dear readers will be very happy to see these beautiful photos!

The kits:

: The Cute Kits!

: Good one by Shahfiq!

: Papadoom - Macho MAN!

: Don't you just wanna squeeze em!?

Thunder:

Thunder's fur is growing back nicely. But I must mention that no matter how he is being shaved, this boy's bone is super thick! Absolutely LOVE this little guy!

: Just look at the STUMPY legs!

Holly Hope:

: She out of condition due to nursing. She is absolutely broodish!

Skor:

Skor is pretty awesome and it has been a while since he last posed for me but he did quite a good job naturally.

: It has been difficult to get photos that could see his eyes

: Wonders if Darlie needs an ambassador. I am sure Skor would fit!

: Not too bad eh? He's for sale, inquire within!

Clark:

: Doing the side winder!

: Side profile. Isn't he a cutie!?

: Clark periscopes - You pointin' that bazooka at me?

: Looking rather serious

: Love this guy very much!

Carmel:

I have been asked which is my favorite rabbits among all that I have. My heart is normally partitioned equally among all living things that I care for. But there is a little bit more for this wonderful doe. She's AMAZING! Adesh and Shahfiq had fun capturing her on stills. Take a look at all the poses that she could come out with. Absolutely adorable!

: The best periscope captured on still thus far in my herd!

: Her all time favorite pose

: She's being cheeky here. Check out the tongue!

: Another one of her favorite pose!

: What a beauty. Depth of chest and sheer BONES!

: A natural!

: Don't you just love the photos and the bunnies too?

There's somebun missing. We shall know what's up tomorrow!

Day 28: Keep on posing!

2009-11-14T10:06:00.000+08:00

Just wanted to post a quick one for all of you to enjoy this beautiful Saturday!

: Beside the color, I really like the type for now...

: Cute!

Day 26: Pose Away!

2009-11-12T22:03:00.001+08:00

Nothing much to write and I'll let the photos speak their own thousand words.

: This one reminds me so much of Holly Hope when she was a baby

: Not too bad for a 4 weeks old

: Thick! Thick! Thick!

: Striking a cute pose!

: Posing class

: Helicopter propellers!

Moving Along

2009-11-11T14:51:00.000+08:00

Have decided to let Skor move on to a pet home. Interested & loving person/people please drop me an email at truluvrabbitry@gmail.com. Though I have a long waiting list, I want to find a perfect fit for him.

It was his birthday yesterday. Born on 10th November 2006 so that makes him 3 years old.

Day 24: Exactly 4 weeks old

2009-11-10T22:44:00.000+08:00

Was testing out some backdrop for Christmas photos this year and I was messing around with the 2 kits. They are super duper cute. Beth finally learned how to pick them up correctly. YAY!

: Rudolph the red nosed reindeer have 2 bunnies sat on him...If you ever saw them, you would even say they're cute...

Day 22: Celebrating Life & Friends

2009-11-08T16:03:00.000+08:00

Over the weekend, there was a heated debate over a nasty comment over at http://truluvrabbitry.com/2009/09/18/postpartum-psychosis-bunny-owner/. I normally do not patronize childish and outrageous comments but I just need to approve the 1st comment because I just need to show how someone rear its ugly head. Go on and enjoy the comments while we're at it.

I believe there is a reason for everything and what raises above all these dramas, is the fact that I have a lot of good friends in the Holland Lop world. I absolutely love each and every one of them. They are the reason why I am loving this hobby even more. Let me choose between rabbits and friends, I'll go for friends ANYTIME! Rabbits come and go but friendships last forever.

To celebrate my friends in thanksgiving, I would like to dedicate these photos to each and every one of my friends. Thank you so much for being there for me and encouraging me!

: For friends who like "helicopter" ears

: This is for friends who appreciates GOOD TYPE

: For those who appreciates FRIENDSHIP!

: For those who appreciates a BIG HEAD?

: For those who have lost focus (ear)

: For those who appreciates "Flat Faces"

: For those who mistaken this for a PERSIAN KITTEN

: For all those who appreciates CUTENESS!

: For those who love furballs!

Day 20: Best In Cup & Reserve Best In Cup!

2009-11-06T00:00:00.000+08:00

After a long day at work, I came home to unwind to more of the cutie pies! The moment I open the door, I was greeted by 2 cuties...

: I think this one's a boy!

: This one's a girl!

: Perfect example of the saying "You scratch my back, I scratch your back"

I wonder how the sleepy head would look like in a little Chimpanzee Cup. LOL!

: Best In Cup goes to Mooruku!

: Reserve Best In Cup!

They are just so cute right now.

Day 19: Fuzzballs

2009-11-05T00:42:00.000+08:00

: Export Only? LOL!

: They are so cute and I am lost for words...

86th ARBA Convention & Show Best In Show (YOUTH)

2009-11-04T10:51:00.003+08:00

A huge congratulations to Christina HALL and especially her daughter Aislin (the young WINNER) for obtaining Best In Show in Youth with their beautiful Solid Senior Doe, She Bangs!

: The Winning Shot!

: Handsome Judge, Gorgeous Bunny. BIS Judging!

Fellow Malaysians, please don't get confused because there are many "Christina"s in the Holland Lop world and this is not the only one that you know! I mentioned just that you know! LOL!

: Care's She Bangs

Now, that's a WOW factor!

And HOLLAND Rules in Youth this year! YAY!

Please notice how this rabbit has got no "FLABS". Sheer BONES!!!!

No double "chin chin" nor double dewlaps!

86th ARBA Convention Holland Lop Updates

2009-11-03T15:34:00.005+08:00

OPEN

First of all, I would like to congratulate Jenny Poprawski of Camelot Rabbitry on winning BOB with SSD Bootie & Linda Jinnings on winning BOS.

This is Camelot's Bootie the BOB OPEN Winner - http://camelotrabbitry.com/bootie_002.JPG

Congratulations to Donna Williams for placing 2nd SSD with 1111 right after the winning doe!

Congratulations to Tracy & Jenna of THF Saynora for placing 2nd with SSB Abe & 10th with BSB Jonah!

Congratulations to Scott Rodriguez (breeder of TLR's foundation stocks) on the following placings:

Ivy Crescent Mason - 2nd Place Solid Junior Buck out of 124
Ivy Crescent Cherie - 8th Place Solid Junior doe out of 124
G.C. Ivy Crescent Rodeo - 6th Place Broken Senior Buck out of 72
Ivy Crescent Natasha - 3rd Place Broken Junior doe out of 62
G.C. Ivy Crescent Firecracker - 16th Place Solid Senior Buck out of 123
G.C. THF Saynora's Quinson 9th Place Solid Senior Buck out of 123

YAY! To Ivy Crescent Hollands! LOL (Yes, I am biased :P)!

*BOB = Best Of Breed, BOS = Best Opposite Sex, SSD = Solid Senior Doe, SSB = Solid Senior Buck, BSB = Broken Senior Buck

YOUTH

I would also like to congratulate Christina Hall & her daughter Aislin for winning BOB in the Holland Lop YOUTH category with an awesome doe called SHE BANGS! I would also like to thank them for sharing these wonderful photos with me.

Congratulations to the Maki Family for placing 7th.

Congratulations to the Usakowski Family for placing 13th.

: This is a REAL ARBA judge judging. Handsome? You BET!

: The MASSIVE room just for YOUTHS!

Thanks Susie for this one!

: Judging COOPs

: Solid Torts awaiting for judging

: More Hollands waiting for their turn to shine!

This is another eye opener for local rabbit enthusiasts! This is what a real RABBIT SHOW is and a MASSIVE one at that!

Now, it is time to wonder where is that woman that was boastful about her placing in BIG shows and selling junk at premium prices? There isn't any trace of her. So what's up with all the GCs?

Truth will always prevail...

Day 16: A Handful

2009-11-02T23:28:00.000+08:00

The two little kits were bouncing around in the cage at feeding time so I decided to pick each up. I must say that they have grown so much over a short period of time. Now they can barely fit into my palm. Mooruku seemed to be rather stocky compared to Papadoom.

: I promise to be good okaay....

: Me too....

Day 15: Lovey Dovey

2009-11-02T00:00:00.001+08:00

I believe very much that "good mommy" is an inherited trait. I can remember very clearly how Noobie was with Holly Hope and now she is such a good mommy herself. Just take a look at these pictures taken last evening.

: awwwwwwWWwww

: Mooruku getting a little nudge from mommy!

I am very proud of myself for having such a clean little rabbitry. Squeky clean is just how I like it! LOL!!!

On the other hand...

: Somebun's feeling really moody today...

I totally understand how it is being hormonal especially when it happens with the girls. OUCH & LOL!

She's sizzling HAWT and DANGEROUS!

Photographs from the 86th ARBA Convention & Show

2009-11-01T12:25:00.001+08:00

This is the 1st time photographs of ARBA Convention are being posted on a Malaysian blog. Thanks to all friends of Tru-Luv Rabbitry especially Teri Reymann for being so gracious/generous in sharing these photos with me. More will be added as Convention is a week long event. The main reason I have requested photographs from my bunny friends is because I would like to share with my fellow Malaysians so that you know how a massive rabbit show looks like and you shall never be HOODWINKED into believing something else that will be fed to you by some quacks EVER again!

I hope you appreciate these photos because they are specially taken for all of you!

: Looks familiar? This is the car that you see on the Convention flyers!

: Another view of the "mascot" car

: Rabbit Product Vendors

: More stores at Convention

: Purina's booth!

Show are separated into the OPEN and YOUTH section. Here's are a couple of photos taken of the OPEN section:

: Open section - Just look at how spacious it is!

: The other OPEN section

Show officially starts tomorrow and therefore, it may seemed a little empty today.

Besides from having all day long conformation judging, there is also Rabbit Conference going on where all the experts give talks about the latest in rabbit care and management in general.

Stay tuned for more photos!