Exploring The World of Animal Shelters: An Inside Look At Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue

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An interview with Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue from Milwaukie, Oregon.

Introducing Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue

Karen Anderson, the dedicated founder and current President and Foster Coordinator of Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue, plays a pivotal role within the organization. In her capacity as President, she takes charge of board meetings and provides comprehensive oversight of all aspects of the organization. It’s worth noting that Karen relies on her exceptional team to manage the diverse responsibilities that come with this role.

In her role as Foster Coordinator, Karen assumes the responsibility of overseeing the rescue’s foster program. This involves tasks such as handling foster applications, addressing inquiries related to the program, conducting training for new foster care providers, ensuring the maintenance of an up-to-date database, and offering support to foster care providers as the need arises. Karen’s dedication to the welfare of bunnies shines through in her multifaceted involvement with the organization.

The Beginning Of Canon Beach Bunny Rescue

Karen Anderson’s life has been a heartfelt journey of animal advocacy and compassion. From her childhood dream of working in veterinary medicine, Karen evolved into a passionate advocate for animals.

Her dedication led her to adopt a vegan lifestyle and actively protest against industries harming animals, such as the fur trade, vivisection, and dolphin hunting.

As a teenager, Karen’s involvement with rabbits began when she acquired some from a classmate. However, it was through her association with Rabbit Advocates that she truly understood the complexities of rabbit care and their overpopulation issues.

Karen spent years volunteering at the Oregon Humane Society, where she educated the public, trained new volunteers, and provided socialization for shelter rabbits.

Her commitment to Rabbit Advocates deepened as she joined the board of directors, became a Foster Coordinator, and eventually served as President.

Today, Karen works as a Certified Veterinary Technician and maintains her vegan lifestyle while caring for her own rescue pets. Her life revolves around her enduring dedication to animal welfare, a journey from childhood dreams to a lifelong mission.

Karen’s Vision For The Shelter

Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, Karen Anderson knew Cannon Beach as a picturesque childhood destination. However, her connection to this coastal paradise deepened in adulthood when she noticed domesticated rabbits roaming freely.

In the Fall of 2018, these rabbits made headlines, prompting Karen to take action. She and a friend launched a petition urging the city to protect the bunnies through peaceful means. The petition gained traction, and soon, they established an official nonprofit organization, complete with a name, social media presence, and logo.

By December 2018, they were a registered nonprofit, and Karen’s focus shifted to building a dedicated board of directors. Over the next 2.5 years, the organization laid its foundations, including a website, email system, merchandise, and tax-exempt status, granted in 2021.

Since then, their work has revolved around raising awareness, rescuing, fostering, and facilitating adoptions. Karen’s journey underscores the impact of determination and compassion in animal advocacy.

Tell Us About the Most “Unusual” Animal That The Canon Beach Bunny Rescue Taken

While Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue primarily focuses on rabbits, a remarkable incident unfolded in 2019. A compassionate individual witnessed two rabbits being heartlessly thrown from a moving vehicle in Cannon Beach. They rescued both, and although one didn’t survive, the survivor, Deuce Coupe, a spirited white and light brown male rabbit, found his way to the rescue.

Deuce underwent neutering and was soon adopted into a loving home. This unique rescue story serves as a testament to the compassion and dedication of those who come together to ensure the well-being of animals in need.

Most Unique And Creative Fundraising Campaigns Canon Beach Bunny Rescue Has Done

Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue has been diligently exploring creative fundraising avenues, and one standout success story is the brainchild of their Vice President, Jen Ferry. Leveraging her strong ties within the local volleyball community, Jen, along with supportive friends, orchestrated a memorable local volleyball tournament.

This day-long event saw teams eagerly participating, with registration fees contributing to the rescue’s funds. Participants had a chance to win exciting prizes, including volleyballs adorned with the organization’s logo. The tournament turned out to be a resounding success, emerging as their most effective fundraiser to date.

The overwhelming response to this unique event has inspired the hope of making it an annual tradition. Through innovative initiatives like these, Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue continues to garner vital support for its noble mission.

Most Rewarding Part Of Running An Animal Shelter

Running a rescue organization like Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue is a labor of love, and Karen Anderson finds profound rewards in the impact they make. The most fulfilling moments in this journey are when they’re on the front lines, physically rescuing rabbits from the wild. These instances represent a powerful act of compassion, bringing these vulnerable creatures to safety and providing them with a chance for a better life.

Equally heartwarming is witnessing the successful adoption of rescued rabbits into their forever homes. In these moments, the rescue team can take pride in the tangible difference they’ve made. Even if it’s just for one rabbit at a time, these moments of transformation underscore the significance of their work. For Karen and her team, these moments are a constant reminder of the importance of their mission and the lives they touch along the way.

Greatest Challenge Of Running An Animal Shelter

While logistical issues, volunteer shortages, and fundraising pose challenges for Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue, the most profound and persistent challenge is the overwhelming scope of pet overpopulation. With a small team facing hundreds of loose rabbits in Cannon Beach, it’s a daunting battle. Karen Anderson prioritizes her team’s mental health, fostering open communication and support to prevent burnout and overwhelm, common issues in animal rescue circles. Despite the challenges, their dedication to helping bunnies remains unwavering.

Most Dedicated And Passionate Volunteers At Your Shelter

Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue may not have a physical shelter, but its dedicated board members are the driving force behind their mission.

Jen Ferry (she/her), Vice President and Adoption Coordinator, joined after learning about the rabbit overpopulation issue in Cannon Beach, eager to make a difference.

Emily Slocombe (she/her), Treasurer, was inspired by her love for Oregon’s coast and her heartache at seeing abandoned bunnies. She chose to act by joining the Board of Directors.

Nikki Unger-Fink (they/them), Secretary, didn’t have prior rabbit experience but became a fantastic Foster Care Provider. Their motivation came from a desire to care for animals and learn about rabbit care basics.

These dedicated board members, each with their unique backgrounds and motivations, play a crucial role in CBBR’s mission to help rabbits in need.

Share With Us The Process Of Rescuing And Rehabilitating Animals

Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue is dedicated to rescuing domesticated rabbits in Cannon Beach, Oregon. Their rescue process involves responding to reports from good Samaritans or initiating rescues themselves. Upon rescue, rabbits are placed in quarantine, examined by a veterinarian, and undergo spaying or neutering before being put up for adoption.

Rehabilitating these rescued rabbits from the wild can be challenging, as they tend to be skittish due to their prey animal nature. However, with time, patience, regular care, exercise, and the safety of indoor living, these rabbits gradually become more comfortable in their environment. Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue’s mission is to ensure the well-being of these animals.

What Are The Busiest Periods, And How Does Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue Cope?

Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue operates without a physical shelter, which means they don’t experience distinct busier periods. Currently relying on only four foster homes, their capacity to help is limited. The demand for assistance remains constant due to the significant number of loose rabbits in Cannon Beach. However, they can only extend their help as far as their available spaces permit. Despite these limitations, their dedication to the cause remains unwavering, and they do their best to make a difference within their capacity.

Why Does Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue Focus On A Specific Type Of Animal?

Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue’s exclusive focus on rabbit rescue is driven by a critical need in their community. Rabbits are often abandoned and misunderstood, posing unique challenges in their care. Handling these fragile creatures requires skill and care, as they are susceptible to stress-induced health issues.

One of their primary challenges is educating the public about proper rabbit care. Many misconceptions exist, even in Cannon Beach, where some people mistakenly believe that free-roaming rabbits are leading good lives.

Despite these obstacles, the rescue is committed to advocating for these rabbits who cannot speak for themselves. Their ultimate reward lies in witnessing the transformation of once-stray bunnies into beloved pets in forever homes.

Working With The Local Community

Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue maintains a collaborative spirit, engaging with various organizations and entities in several ways:

• Their volunteers assist Rabbit Advocates in capturing loose rabbits in the Portland-metro area.
• They actively promote Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus Type 2 (RHDV2) vaccine clinics by Rabbit Advocates for the benefit of rabbits statewide.
• While connections exist with other Oregon rabbit rescues, formal collaborations are pending.
• They aim to collaborate with the Haystack Rock Awareness program, considering shared concerns about the impact of feral rabbits on the local ecosystem.

Efforts to collaborate with the Oregon Humane Society and Clatsop County Animal Control faced challenges and have yet to materialize. However, Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue remains dedicated to its mission of aiding rabbits in need.

Tell Us More About Your Events

Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue currently doesn’t have events at the moment, but they enthusiastically encourage people to purchase, wear, and share their merchandise. While the revenue generated from merchandise sales may be modest, spreading awareness about their cause is paramount. Individuals can play a crucial role in supporting and raising awareness for the rescue’s mission by donning and promoting their merchandise.

What Is Done Differently At Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue?

Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue stands as a unique and dedicated nonprofit organization with a distinct focus on addressing the rabbit overpopulation issue in Cannon Beach, Oregon. Operating exclusively through foster homes, their mission centers on rescuing and providing care for the loose and abandoned rabbits in this coastal community. As the sole nonprofit founded specifically to address this concern, they play a vital role in safeguarding the well-being of these rabbits and raising awareness about their plight.

How Has The Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue Adapted To The Challenges Presented By The Pandemic?

Canon Beach Bunny Rescue, established in 2018, became fully active in engaging with the public and securing foster homes around 2020. The pandemic posed challenges, requiring them to adapt by wearing masks during rescues and holding virtual board meetings via Zoom.

Their biggest hurdle was the inability to conduct in-person advertising due to event cancellations. To compensate, they relied heavily on social media for promotion. Despite the disruptions, the care of animals in individual homes remained consistent, thanks to their dedicated volunteers. The organization’s commitment to making a difference in bunnies’ lives remained unwavering throughout the challenging times.

Share With Us Some Of The Heartwarming Stories Of Animals Rehabilitated And Rehomed By Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue

It’s heartwarming to reflect on the positive impact Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue has made in the lives of rabbits like Zennie and her offspring. In a particular rescue story, Zennie, initially trapped by a compassionate Good Samaritan, became the focal point of a heartwarming journey.

Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue had plans to spay Zennie, but a surprise awaited them: she gave birth to seven adorable babies. Thanks to the efforts of the resident who captured her and the organization’s timely intervention, Zennie’s babies were spared the challenges of fending for themselves in the wild.

One of these precious bunnies, Coulson, embarked on an incredible journey. Initially fostered by Jen Ferry and later by Nikki Unger-Fink, Coulson was eventually adopted by a caring couple, Asher, and introduced to Willow, who had lost her bonded buddy.

The bonding process was a patient and gradual one, but with experienced bunny parents, it proved successful. Coulson and Willow formed a loving bond, bringing joy and activity into each other’s lives. Coulson’s new guardians, Asher and their partner, were overjoyed to see him flourish in his new home, where he enjoys indoor safety, good food, and companionship.

Coulson’s story is a testament to the positive impact of rescue organizations like Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue. Rather than facing a life of hardship in the wild, he now thrives in a loving home, surrounded by caring and experienced bunny parents.

What Are The Help Needed From The Local Community?

Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue greatly appreciates any support that comes their way. There are several ways people can contribute:

• Financial Support: Donations are always valuable and help cover the rescue’s operational costs.

• Spreading Awareness: Raising awareness about the challenges faced by the bunnies in Cannon Beach is essential. Sharing their mission and stories can make a significant impact.

• Volunteering as Foster Care Providers: Right now, what they need most are dedicated individuals in Oregon who can volunteer to foster bunnies until they find their forever homes. While this can be a commitment, it’s crucial for their rescue efforts.

• Land or Building Donations: To expand their impact, Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue has a vision of creating a sanctuary for rescued rabbits. They are actively seeking someone willing to donate land (with appropriate zoning) or assist in locating suitable properties. Expert advice on zoning or property sales would also be greatly appreciated.

By contributing in these ways, individuals can play a vital role in helping Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue rescue more rabbits and address the overpopulation issue more effectively.

Connect With Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue here:

Website: https://www.cannonbeachbunnyrescue.org/

Mailing Address: Cannon Beach Bunny Rescue 4230 SE King Rd #183 Milwaukie, OR 97222

Email Address: [email protected]

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Folks can donate money via PayPal at https://www.paypal.com/US/fundraiser/charity/4237415

Folks can support us financially regularly by become a patron at https://www.patreon.com/CannonBeachBunnyRescue

Folks can spread the word by purchasing and wearing our shirts available at these pages: https://www.bonfire.com/save-the-cannon-beach-bunnies-1/ and https://www.bonfire.com/save-the-cb-bunz-dark-styles/

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