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MEET THE SPEAKERS
Emily and Lizzy Cassell
Empowered Animals Behavior and Training
"What Choice Do They Have? The Importance of Empowering Animals"
Emily and Lizzy Cassell co-founded Empowered Animals Behavior and Training to combine their skills in training animals and their human caregivers. While we work with all species, we have a special interest in rabbits, and have worked with owners, rescues, and shelters to understand these little understood pets. Using evidence-based, fear-free methods, we help guardians communicate with their bunnies. We’ve worked with bunny parents worldwide, assisting with behavior issues and in our popular group classes.
Our session will focus on how our approach empowers animals to communicate with their humans, grow their confidence, and enhance their welfare. Pet rabbits have little control over their lives, and an empowered approach can create a feeling of having a say in their environment. Rabbit welfare has come so far in the last several years, in terms of housing, diet, and medical care. It’s time to bring behavioral welfare up to speed!!
"What Choice Do They Have? The Importance of Empowering Animals"
Emily and Lizzy Cassell co-founded Empowered Animals Behavior and Training to combine their skills in training animals and their human caregivers. While we work with all species, we have a special interest in rabbits, and have worked with owners, rescues, and shelters to understand these little understood pets. Using evidence-based, fear-free methods, we help guardians communicate with their bunnies. We’ve worked with bunny parents worldwide, assisting with behavior issues and in our popular group classes.
Our session will focus on how our approach empowers animals to communicate with their humans, grow their confidence, and enhance their welfare. Pet rabbits have little control over their lives, and an empowered approach can create a feeling of having a say in their environment. Rabbit welfare has come so far in the last several years, in terms of housing, diet, and medical care. It’s time to bring behavioral welfare up to speed!!
Linda Kitchen, DVM
Veterinarian at Animal Hospital Of Bonita
"Tooth Be Told: Why Rabbit Teeth Never Get a Day Off"
(45 minute Educational Seminar)
Dental Issues in House Rabbits - and How They Can Be Treated. This session will focus on many aspects of dental health in house rabbits. Some topics include the anatomy of rabbit teeth, how to recognize a dental problem is present, prevention and treatment options for many problems, with case studies and real-life examples and discussions of options for abscesses, overgrowth and bite abnormalities.
About Dr. Kitchen:
Dr. Kitchen graduated from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2008. In her clinical year at Louisiana State University, she focused on Ultrasound and exotic medicine. After working for wonderful veterinarians in both Cincinnati and Daytona Beach learning advanced techniques in medicine and surgery, she took over Animal Hospital of Bonita, established in 1997. This year, Dr. Kitchen is celebrating 12 years owning Animal Hospital of Bonita in Bonita Springs, Fl.
She has been working with the Southwest Florida House Rabbit Rescue since President Jennifer MacBeth walked through the doors in December 2016 with a rabbit named Wriggly. 265 patients later, she has seen difficult fractures, lots of GI stasis, several weird masses and abscesses, an abundance of ear infections, hoarding cases, E. cuniculi, and of course, dental issues.
"Tooth Be Told: Why Rabbit Teeth Never Get a Day Off"
(45 minute Educational Seminar)
Dental Issues in House Rabbits - and How They Can Be Treated. This session will focus on many aspects of dental health in house rabbits. Some topics include the anatomy of rabbit teeth, how to recognize a dental problem is present, prevention and treatment options for many problems, with case studies and real-life examples and discussions of options for abscesses, overgrowth and bite abnormalities.
About Dr. Kitchen:
Dr. Kitchen graduated from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2008. In her clinical year at Louisiana State University, she focused on Ultrasound and exotic medicine. After working for wonderful veterinarians in both Cincinnati and Daytona Beach learning advanced techniques in medicine and surgery, she took over Animal Hospital of Bonita, established in 1997. This year, Dr. Kitchen is celebrating 12 years owning Animal Hospital of Bonita in Bonita Springs, Fl.
She has been working with the Southwest Florida House Rabbit Rescue since President Jennifer MacBeth walked through the doors in December 2016 with a rabbit named Wriggly. 265 patients later, she has seen difficult fractures, lots of GI stasis, several weird masses and abscesses, an abundance of ear infections, hoarding cases, E. cuniculi, and of course, dental issues.
Dana Krempels, PhD
University of Miami Biology, retired
"When Every Minute Matters: Bunny Emergency Care When Your Vet Isn’t Available"
(45 minute Educational Seminar)
Emergencies don’t wait for office hours. In this practical, lifesaving talk, learn what to do if your rabbit is sick or injured and you can’t immediately reach your vet.
About Dr. Dana:
Dana is an evolutionary biologist and Senior Lecturer at the University of Miami. She teaches Comparative Physiology, Genetics, Ecology, Evolution and several other courses that come in handy when dealing with rabbit health. She has decades of experience with veterinary issues gained from rescuing and rehabilitating domestic rabbits, as well as wild cottontails and jackrabbits.
"When Every Minute Matters: Bunny Emergency Care When Your Vet Isn’t Available"
(45 minute Educational Seminar)
Emergencies don’t wait for office hours. In this practical, lifesaving talk, learn what to do if your rabbit is sick or injured and you can’t immediately reach your vet.
About Dr. Dana:
Dana is an evolutionary biologist and Senior Lecturer at the University of Miami. She teaches Comparative Physiology, Genetics, Ecology, Evolution and several other courses that come in handy when dealing with rabbit health. She has decades of experience with veterinary issues gained from rescuing and rehabilitating domestic rabbits, as well as wild cottontails and jackrabbits.
Sara Hettle CVT, RVT
Sherwood Pet Health
"Understanding Rabbit Diets: Sherwood's Approach"
(45 min Special Topic)
In this talk, we’ll dive into the world of rabbit nutrition, exploring what makes Sherwood’s approach unique. You’ll learn about our version of the rabbit food pyramid and the reasoning behind it, discover which ingredients are safe (and which to avoid), and get practical tips for feeding happy, healthy rabbits. We’ll also give you a first look at a new litter box design that separates urine and feces, making it easier to monitor your rabbit’s health at home. Whether you’re a longtime rabbit owner or just starting out, this talk will give you the tools to better understand your bunny’s diet and wellbeing.
About Sara:
Sara earned her veterinary technology degree from the University of Oklahoma at OKC and gained hands-on experience with rabbit and wildlife rescues, including Heartland Rabbit Rescue and Wildcare Foundation. She also worked with mixed-animal practices like Thunderbird Veterinary Hospital and the Exotic Animal Clinic of Arizona, where she continues to bring her own rabbits for care.
With over eight years at Sherwood Pet Health, Sara has developed deep expertise in rabbit nutrition and health, particularly in managing digestive and urinary issues. A lifelong rabbit enthusiast, she currently shares her home with nine adopted rabbits and three guinea pigs, and is passionate about promoting happy, healthy lives for companion rabbits.
"Understanding Rabbit Diets: Sherwood's Approach"
(45 min Special Topic)
In this talk, we’ll dive into the world of rabbit nutrition, exploring what makes Sherwood’s approach unique. You’ll learn about our version of the rabbit food pyramid and the reasoning behind it, discover which ingredients are safe (and which to avoid), and get practical tips for feeding happy, healthy rabbits. We’ll also give you a first look at a new litter box design that separates urine and feces, making it easier to monitor your rabbit’s health at home. Whether you’re a longtime rabbit owner or just starting out, this talk will give you the tools to better understand your bunny’s diet and wellbeing.
About Sara:
Sara earned her veterinary technology degree from the University of Oklahoma at OKC and gained hands-on experience with rabbit and wildlife rescues, including Heartland Rabbit Rescue and Wildcare Foundation. She also worked with mixed-animal practices like Thunderbird Veterinary Hospital and the Exotic Animal Clinic of Arizona, where she continues to bring her own rabbits for care.
With over eight years at Sherwood Pet Health, Sara has developed deep expertise in rabbit nutrition and health, particularly in managing digestive and urinary issues. A lifelong rabbit enthusiast, she currently shares her home with nine adopted rabbits and three guinea pigs, and is passionate about promoting happy, healthy lives for companion rabbits.
Veja Tillman, DVM
Veterinarian at Just 4 Pets Wellness Center
"The Silent Killers: Common but Critical Disease in Rabbits"
(45 minute educational seminar)
Rabbits are masters at hiding illness, making certain conditions especially dangerous. This seminar covers high-risk rabbit health issues such as gastrointestinal stasis and Encephalitozoon cuniculi, with a focus on recognition, diagnosis, and treatment.
About Dr. Tillman:
Dr. Tillman is a 2002 graduate of Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine. After completing a rotating internship in internal medicine, surgery, and emergency critical care in Coral Springs, Florida, she embarked on a journey to build her skills further. Dr. Tillman transitioned into private practice while continuing to provide emergency and critical care services in the Florida Panhandle and Georgia. Her knowledge, skills, compassion, and “way with the animals” earned her a multitude of positive comments, purrs, and paw shakes!
Dr. Tillman places a very high priority on the quality of care provided to patients and their owners. She continuously builds upon and reinforces her knowledge of current diagnostic techniques, medical treatments, and surgical procedures. Through her veterinary relief practice, she provided services for humane societies, county domestic animal agencies, animal rescue groups, and high-volume spay/neuter clinics throughout Florida.
"The Silent Killers: Common but Critical Disease in Rabbits"
(45 minute educational seminar)
Rabbits are masters at hiding illness, making certain conditions especially dangerous. This seminar covers high-risk rabbit health issues such as gastrointestinal stasis and Encephalitozoon cuniculi, with a focus on recognition, diagnosis, and treatment.
About Dr. Tillman:
Dr. Tillman is a 2002 graduate of Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine. After completing a rotating internship in internal medicine, surgery, and emergency critical care in Coral Springs, Florida, she embarked on a journey to build her skills further. Dr. Tillman transitioned into private practice while continuing to provide emergency and critical care services in the Florida Panhandle and Georgia. Her knowledge, skills, compassion, and “way with the animals” earned her a multitude of positive comments, purrs, and paw shakes!
Dr. Tillman places a very high priority on the quality of care provided to patients and their owners. She continuously builds upon and reinforces her knowledge of current diagnostic techniques, medical treatments, and surgical procedures. Through her veterinary relief practice, she provided services for humane societies, county domestic animal agencies, animal rescue groups, and high-volume spay/neuter clinics throughout Florida.
Dan Brenner
Farmer Dave Pet Supply
"Growing Your Knowledge About Hay"
(25 minute Special Topic)
Hay is the cornerstone of a healthy rabbit's diet. Hear from a hay farmer as he breaks down the details of hay from how it's grown, the difference between cuttings, and how to pick the best hay for your bunny.
About Dan:
Dan Brenner is a farmer in Western New York State. Dan and his family work together to operate Farmer Dave Pet Supply, growing and producing all natural hay, chews, treats, and toys for small animals. Farming is a life-long apprenticeship, and Dan has been studying how to grow and harvest the highest-quality farm products since his childhood. Dan took a short break from the family farm to pursue a career in education. He has served as a teacher, university instructor, assistant principal, athletic director, and High School principal before returning to help run the farm with his parents David, and Theresa, his wife Diane, and his two children - four year old Hailey, and two year old Beau. Dan is the president of his local farm bureau and strives to promote sustainable farming practice. Dan's passions are education and agriculture. He is thrilled about the opportunity to educate bunny owners about hay!
"Growing Your Knowledge About Hay"
(25 minute Special Topic)
Hay is the cornerstone of a healthy rabbit's diet. Hear from a hay farmer as he breaks down the details of hay from how it's grown, the difference between cuttings, and how to pick the best hay for your bunny.
About Dan:
Dan Brenner is a farmer in Western New York State. Dan and his family work together to operate Farmer Dave Pet Supply, growing and producing all natural hay, chews, treats, and toys for small animals. Farming is a life-long apprenticeship, and Dan has been studying how to grow and harvest the highest-quality farm products since his childhood. Dan took a short break from the family farm to pursue a career in education. He has served as a teacher, university instructor, assistant principal, athletic director, and High School principal before returning to help run the farm with his parents David, and Theresa, his wife Diane, and his two children - four year old Hailey, and two year old Beau. Dan is the president of his local farm bureau and strives to promote sustainable farming practice. Dan's passions are education and agriculture. He is thrilled about the opportunity to educate bunny owners about hay!
Stevie Callan
President of Orlando Rabbit Care and Adoptions
"From Nose Boops to Best Buds: Bunny Bonding At Home"
Bonding two rabbits together is a process that requires patience, careful planning, and a good understanding of your bunnies. Come learn how to safely understand everything you will need to undergo the process including introductions, timelines, positive and negative behaviors, and how to know if your bunnies are the perfect fit for one another.
About Stevie:
Stevie Callan found ORCA in 2018 when she became a volunteer at events. Slowly, she began doing more with the rescue through social media posts, reaching out to fosters/adopters, school visits, and assisting with bunny bonding. Stevie served as the Volunteer Coordinator and Vice President before becoming President.
"From Nose Boops to Best Buds: Bunny Bonding At Home"
Bonding two rabbits together is a process that requires patience, careful planning, and a good understanding of your bunnies. Come learn how to safely understand everything you will need to undergo the process including introductions, timelines, positive and negative behaviors, and how to know if your bunnies are the perfect fit for one another.
About Stevie:
Stevie Callan found ORCA in 2018 when she became a volunteer at events. Slowly, she began doing more with the rescue through social media posts, reaching out to fosters/adopters, school visits, and assisting with bunny bonding. Stevie served as the Volunteer Coordinator and Vice President before becoming President.
Anjie Coates
Author & Professional Groomer
"Tools of the Trade: Proper Tools for Your Pet Rabbit's Grooming Needs"
(25 minute Special Topic)
Do you know the best tools for your pet rabbit? Anjie will give you the inside scoop on the safest and easiest-to-use tools for nails and all coat types.
About Anjie:
Over her 37 years in the grooming industry, Anjie spent significant time mastering every aspect of the industry. She has been teaching proper rabbit grooming techniques for over 20 years. In 2020, her program moved online and became a certification course after review by a small-mammal veterinarian. Since 2021, she taught professional groomers worldwide how to properly serve their rabbit clientele both in person and online. In 2023, her book, reviewed by two small-mammal veterinarians, the first rabbit grooming book in the grooming industry. “The Quintessential Rabbit Book” was published and won the Barkleigh Honors Book of the Year.
"Tools of the Trade: Proper Tools for Your Pet Rabbit's Grooming Needs"
(25 minute Special Topic)
Do you know the best tools for your pet rabbit? Anjie will give you the inside scoop on the safest and easiest-to-use tools for nails and all coat types.
About Anjie:
Over her 37 years in the grooming industry, Anjie spent significant time mastering every aspect of the industry. She has been teaching proper rabbit grooming techniques for over 20 years. In 2020, her program moved online and became a certification course after review by a small-mammal veterinarian. Since 2021, she taught professional groomers worldwide how to properly serve their rabbit clientele both in person and online. In 2023, her book, reviewed by two small-mammal veterinarians, the first rabbit grooming book in the grooming industry. “The Quintessential Rabbit Book” was published and won the Barkleigh Honors Book of the Year.
Joneé Willette
Programs Manager for Collier County Domestic Animal Services
"The Hidden Crisis: Supporting Rabbits Through Rescue, Foster Care, and Rehabilitation"
(25 minute Special Topic)
Rabbits enter shelters in high numbers, but many facilities do not have the training or resources needed to meet their unique needs. This presentation offers a welcoming, real-world look at what happens to rabbits in shelters and rescues, and how everyday people can play a meaningful role in helping them. From fostering and hands-on care to supporting rehabilitation efforts, this talk draws on personal experience in rescue and veterinary rehab settings to show where help is most needed and how compassionate involvement can truly change outcomes for bunnies.
About Joneé:
Joneé Willette brings more than two decades of experience in animal welfare, wildlife rehabilitation, and animal shelter operations, with a long-standing focus on rabbit care and education. A rabbit owner since 2007, she has worked with both domestic and wild rabbits in adoption centers, foster programs, and wildlife rehabilitation settings. Her experience includes fostering behaviorally complex rabbits, mothers with litters, juveniles, and managing cases ranging from severe injury to well-socialized companion animals.
Joneé currently serves as Programs Manager for Collier County Domestic Animal Services and previously managed both a satellite animal shelter and a high-volume wildlife hospital. She is also the co-founder of CARE LLC (Comprehensive Animal Rescue & Resource Experts LLC), supporting shelters and rehabilitation centers through operational improvement and humane best practices. Joneé is passionate about education, responsible guardianship, and empowering guardians to better understand their rabbits’ behavior and welfare needs.
"The Hidden Crisis: Supporting Rabbits Through Rescue, Foster Care, and Rehabilitation"
(25 minute Special Topic)
Rabbits enter shelters in high numbers, but many facilities do not have the training or resources needed to meet their unique needs. This presentation offers a welcoming, real-world look at what happens to rabbits in shelters and rescues, and how everyday people can play a meaningful role in helping them. From fostering and hands-on care to supporting rehabilitation efforts, this talk draws on personal experience in rescue and veterinary rehab settings to show where help is most needed and how compassionate involvement can truly change outcomes for bunnies.
About Joneé:
Joneé Willette brings more than two decades of experience in animal welfare, wildlife rehabilitation, and animal shelter operations, with a long-standing focus on rabbit care and education. A rabbit owner since 2007, she has worked with both domestic and wild rabbits in adoption centers, foster programs, and wildlife rehabilitation settings. Her experience includes fostering behaviorally complex rabbits, mothers with litters, juveniles, and managing cases ranging from severe injury to well-socialized companion animals.
Joneé currently serves as Programs Manager for Collier County Domestic Animal Services and previously managed both a satellite animal shelter and a high-volume wildlife hospital. She is also the co-founder of CARE LLC (Comprehensive Animal Rescue & Resource Experts LLC), supporting shelters and rehabilitation centers through operational improvement and humane best practices. Joneé is passionate about education, responsible guardianship, and empowering guardians to better understand their rabbits’ behavior and welfare needs.
Shelly Readman
The Bunny Bungalow
"Have Bunny will travel!: Boarding and traveling with your rabbit"
Know what questions to ask when looking for someone to look after your bunny when you travel, whether it be boarding in a business, their home or your home. Also learn what to bring if you decide to take your bunny on your journey with you.
About Shelly:
Shelly is a highly experienced rabbit care-giver and the founder of The Bunny Bungalow, established in 2025 to meet the growing need for knowledgeable, rabbit-focused boarding and grooming. After retiring from a distinguished 30-year career in Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound, Shelly recognized a critical gap in pet care services: many boarding facilities lacked the specialized understanding required to safely care for rabbits, one of the most delicate companion animals.
Drawing on decades of medical training, a strong foundation in anatomy and diagnostics, and years of hands-on experience fostering rabbits and volunteering with local shelters and rescue organizations, Shelly brings a uniquely informed, detail-oriented approach to rabbit care. Her work emphasizes preventative care, stress reduction, and species-specific handling to ensure the health and well-being of every rabbit entrusted to her.
Through education, advocacy, and compassionate care, Shelly is dedicated to empowering rabbit guardians with the knowledge they need—whether choosing a boarding facility, arranging in-home care, or traveling safely with their rabbits.
"Have Bunny will travel!: Boarding and traveling with your rabbit"
Know what questions to ask when looking for someone to look after your bunny when you travel, whether it be boarding in a business, their home or your home. Also learn what to bring if you decide to take your bunny on your journey with you.
About Shelly:
Shelly is a highly experienced rabbit care-giver and the founder of The Bunny Bungalow, established in 2025 to meet the growing need for knowledgeable, rabbit-focused boarding and grooming. After retiring from a distinguished 30-year career in Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound, Shelly recognized a critical gap in pet care services: many boarding facilities lacked the specialized understanding required to safely care for rabbits, one of the most delicate companion animals.
Drawing on decades of medical training, a strong foundation in anatomy and diagnostics, and years of hands-on experience fostering rabbits and volunteering with local shelters and rescue organizations, Shelly brings a uniquely informed, detail-oriented approach to rabbit care. Her work emphasizes preventative care, stress reduction, and species-specific handling to ensure the health and well-being of every rabbit entrusted to her.
Through education, advocacy, and compassionate care, Shelly is dedicated to empowering rabbit guardians with the knowledge they need—whether choosing a boarding facility, arranging in-home care, or traveling safely with their rabbits.
Rachel Anderson, DVM
Veterinarian at Animal Hospital Of Bonita
"Supporting Your Senior & Special Needs Buns" (25 Minute Special Topic)
Senior and disabled rabbits have unique challenges, but with the right care, they can thrive. In this 25-minute session, we’ll discuss nutrition, mobility solutions, enrichment, and health monitoring to keep your special buns safe, comfortable, and engaged.
About Dr. Anderson:
Dr. Anderson originates from Kansas City, home of the Chiefs! Dr. Anderson double majored in Animal Science and Philosophy at the University of Missouri and continued on to veterinary school at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine. During her studies, Dr. Anderson served as vice president of the Zoo Exotics and Wildlife club, president of the Shelter Medicine club, and vice president of the Small Ruminants and Camelids club. Additionally, she was selected to participate in externships at the Dickerson Park Zoo in Missouri, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado and the Oakland Zoo in California as well as several private practices. Dr. Anderson moved to Florida to pursue her passion of exotic animal medicine including small companion mammals (such as rabbits, ferrets and guinea pigs,) birds and reptiles. She currently serves on the board of the Calusa Herpetological Society. She is also passionate about helping with shelters and rescues, particularly Lee's County Domestic Animal Services, Parrot Outreach Society and Nan's Ranch. In her spare time, Dr. Anderson enjoys playing tennis, hosting game night, teaching zumba, spending time at the beach and belting out karaoke. She is kept on her toes at home by her fiance and two fur babies Mekko (a husky mix) and Scotch (a lab mix.)
"Supporting Your Senior & Special Needs Buns" (25 Minute Special Topic)
Senior and disabled rabbits have unique challenges, but with the right care, they can thrive. In this 25-minute session, we’ll discuss nutrition, mobility solutions, enrichment, and health monitoring to keep your special buns safe, comfortable, and engaged.
About Dr. Anderson:
Dr. Anderson originates from Kansas City, home of the Chiefs! Dr. Anderson double majored in Animal Science and Philosophy at the University of Missouri and continued on to veterinary school at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine. During her studies, Dr. Anderson served as vice president of the Zoo Exotics and Wildlife club, president of the Shelter Medicine club, and vice president of the Small Ruminants and Camelids club. Additionally, she was selected to participate in externships at the Dickerson Park Zoo in Missouri, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado and the Oakland Zoo in California as well as several private practices. Dr. Anderson moved to Florida to pursue her passion of exotic animal medicine including small companion mammals (such as rabbits, ferrets and guinea pigs,) birds and reptiles. She currently serves on the board of the Calusa Herpetological Society. She is also passionate about helping with shelters and rescues, particularly Lee's County Domestic Animal Services, Parrot Outreach Society and Nan's Ranch. In her spare time, Dr. Anderson enjoys playing tennis, hosting game night, teaching zumba, spending time at the beach and belting out karaoke. She is kept on her toes at home by her fiance and two fur babies Mekko (a husky mix) and Scotch (a lab mix.)
Ashley Berke
President of Space Coast Bunnies
"Something to Thump About: How to Advocate for Rabbits in Your Community"
Rabbit rescues are drowning. Rabbit dumping and unwanted bunnies have become a crisis in Florida. If citizens don't push for common sense updates to our animal regulations, rabbits will become the next feral cat problem. We can prevent rabbit abandonment and suffering by working at the local at state level. Ashley will share the progress that is starting to be made in some counties and cities, and how you can get involved to make that happen in your community. The buns need you!
About Ashley: A lifelong bunny girl, Ashley founded Space Coast Bunnies in 2019 after stepping in to address a backyard breeding crisis when no agencies would. What began with separating rabbits, finding homes through Facebook, and building a foster network grew rapidly as dumping surged during the pandemic and never slowed. Since then, Ashley and local advocates have pushed for stronger rabbit protections at the city, county, and state levels—helping secure pet store sales bans in multiple communities, including Orange County (Orlando) and the City of St. Petersburg. Ashley joins a number of bunny advocates in pushing for changes at the state and local levels but more voices are needed!
Ashley served as the VP of Space Coast Animal Rights before branching off to start the rescue. She is also on the board for OneProtest, an advocacy organization instrumental in stopping banning bear hunting in Florida for a decade, bringing an end to greyhound racing in the state and leading the public campaigns that shuttered Ringling Bros Circus’ legacy of cruelty. She is driven to raise the stature of rabbits and how they are viewed, because no one was born to live in a cage.
"Something to Thump About: How to Advocate for Rabbits in Your Community"
Rabbit rescues are drowning. Rabbit dumping and unwanted bunnies have become a crisis in Florida. If citizens don't push for common sense updates to our animal regulations, rabbits will become the next feral cat problem. We can prevent rabbit abandonment and suffering by working at the local at state level. Ashley will share the progress that is starting to be made in some counties and cities, and how you can get involved to make that happen in your community. The buns need you!
About Ashley: A lifelong bunny girl, Ashley founded Space Coast Bunnies in 2019 after stepping in to address a backyard breeding crisis when no agencies would. What began with separating rabbits, finding homes through Facebook, and building a foster network grew rapidly as dumping surged during the pandemic and never slowed. Since then, Ashley and local advocates have pushed for stronger rabbit protections at the city, county, and state levels—helping secure pet store sales bans in multiple communities, including Orange County (Orlando) and the City of St. Petersburg. Ashley joins a number of bunny advocates in pushing for changes at the state and local levels but more voices are needed!
Ashley served as the VP of Space Coast Animal Rights before branching off to start the rescue. She is also on the board for OneProtest, an advocacy organization instrumental in stopping banning bear hunting in Florida for a decade, bringing an end to greyhound racing in the state and leading the public campaigns that shuttered Ringling Bros Circus’ legacy of cruelty. She is driven to raise the stature of rabbits and how they are viewed, because no one was born to live in a cage.
Karyn Stochl
President of Blossom’s Bunnies Wildlife Rehabilitation and Rescue
"What Should I Do If I Find a Wild Rabbit’s Nest in My Yard?"
Description: Have you found a nest of baby rabbits in your yard? Before you move them or assume they’ve been abandoned, join us for this practical Lunch & Learn. We’ll cover how wild rabbit nesting works, signs that babies are healthy and being fed, common mistakes people make, and simple ways to safely coexist until the nest is naturally vacated. Perfect for homeowners, gardeners, and animal lovers.
About Karyn: Karyn is the President of Blossom’s Bunnies Wildlife Rehabilitation and Rescue, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Citrus County, Florida specializing in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of Florida Cottontails and Marsh Rabbits. Karyn is a state-licensed and permitted wildlife rehabilitator through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
"What Should I Do If I Find a Wild Rabbit’s Nest in My Yard?"
Description: Have you found a nest of baby rabbits in your yard? Before you move them or assume they’ve been abandoned, join us for this practical Lunch & Learn. We’ll cover how wild rabbit nesting works, signs that babies are healthy and being fed, common mistakes people make, and simple ways to safely coexist until the nest is naturally vacated. Perfect for homeowners, gardeners, and animal lovers.
About Karyn: Karyn is the President of Blossom’s Bunnies Wildlife Rehabilitation and Rescue, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Citrus County, Florida specializing in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of Florida Cottontails and Marsh Rabbits. Karyn is a state-licensed and permitted wildlife rehabilitator through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Hoppy Hour
Play
Silent Auction (Closes at 3 PM)
ShopVendor Booths
ShopKid Zone
PlayBunny Spa
Bun ServicesBunny Glamour Shots
Bun ServicesClementine Cruiser - Dessert Cart
EatBunny Lounge
Bun ServicesThe Friendly Greek - Food Truck
EatCrave Coffee
Eat"Growing Your Knowledge About Hay" (Special Topic)
Learn"Tooth Be Told: Why Rabbit Teeth Never Get a Day Off" (Educational Seminar)
Learn"From Nose Boops to Best Buds: Bunny Bonding At Home" (Special Topic)
Learn"Tools of the Trade: Proper Tools for Your Pet Rabbit's Grooming Needs" (Special Topic)
Learn"When Every Minute Matters: Bunny Emergency Care When Your Vet Isn’t Available" (Educational Seminar)
Learn"What Should I Do If I Find a Wild Rabbit’s Nest in My Yard?" (Lunch & Learn)
Learn"Something to Thump About: How to Advocate for Rabbits in Your Community" (Lunch & Learn)
Learn"The Hidden Crisis: Supporting Rabbits Through Rescue, Foster Care, and Rehabilitation" (Special Topic)
Learn"Understanding Rabbit Diets: Sherwood's Approach" (Educational Seminar)
Learn"Have Bunny will travel!: Boarding and traveling with your rabbit" (Special Topic)
Learn"What Choice Do They Have? The Importance of Empowering Animals" (Special Topic)
Learn"The Silent Killers: Common but Critical Disease in Rabbits" (Educational Seminar)
Learn"Supporting Your Senior & Special Needs Buns" (Special Topic)
Learn50/50 Raffle Drawing
PlayGift Basket Raffle Drawing
Shop
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