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What Is The Matter With Some People?
(Crimes & Bunnies)

It is unbelievable to think that someone would intentionally steal another person's rabbit.  Taking a show rabbit or a pet bunny from its rightful owner is a terrible crime.  Most breeders and owners of animals love them as much as they lover their own children.  Not knowing what happened to an animal or where it might be, are horrible feelings for any rabbit owner.  How could someone do this to another person?  Why would anyone do this?
Thankfully it doesn't happen that often because of rules concerning removal of rabbits from show arenas.  Most State and National shows help keep show rabbits protected from would be thieves but it is difficult to secure ten thousand rabbits from these criminals.  There is very little security involved at smaller local or county shows.  How do we keep our rabbits safe at these shows?  It's hard to keep an eye on all your rabbits at all times.  When going to show tables that may be across the arena, ask someone you trust to watch your rabbits.  Putting locks or ties on your carriers or coops may help deter criminals.  Bringing a family member, or a friend or another exhibitor to help watch your bunnies will ensure a safer trip for your animals.
Buying an animal from another breeder and misrepresenting yourself by writing a bad check or paying with a fraudulent credit card or promising to pay in the future but choosing not to, are all considered theft.  Most Texas County District Attorneys prosecute this type of animal theft with more sever penalties than normal theft.
Be sure to make a written receipt when selling a rabbit.  The seller of any small animal needs to secure the buyers identification.  Drivers license numbers with date of birth, address, phone number and even a reference from someone who may know the buyer are all necessary and important if the buyer turns out to be a crook.  Buyers need to get information from the seller as well.  Especially, if they are not getting the pedigree at the time of purchase.
It is sad if we cannot trust other rabbit exhibitors.  Hopefully keeping watch over our rabbits and keeping tabs on where they are going after a sale will be easier for all of us in the future.
Good luck, 
BUNNYRABBIT.com