When people think of emotional support animals, they usually picture a dog or maybe even a cat. A bunny? Probably not. Honestly, I never imagined I’d end up with one either. But getting my emotional support rabbit has been one of the best decisions I’ve made during college, and it’s had a bigger impact on my mental health than I ever expected. College can be overwhelming. Between balancing classes, leadership positions, work, friendships, and trying to plan life after graduation, there were times when my anxiety felt like it was taking over. I found myself constantly stressed about what was next instead of enjoying where I was. That’s when I started looking into emotional support animals.
After doing a lot of research, I realized a rabbit would fit my lifestyle much better than a dog or cat. Don’t get me wrong, I love dogs. But with my schedule, I knew I wouldn’t be able to give the time and attention it deserved. Dogs need frequent potty breaks, daily walks, and lots of exercise, and between classes, work, and meetings, I knew that it wouldn’t be realistic for me. Cats are also amazing companions, but they typically do best with free rein of the home, which isn’t always practical in every apartment or living situation.Â
A rabbit ended up being the perfect fit. Many people assume rabbits spend all day in a small cage, but that’s actually a common misconception. Rabbits need plenty of space to move around and explore. A single average-sized rabbit should have at least 16 square feet of indoor living space. My bunny has a setup that allows plenty of room to hop around, play, and relax, while still fitting comfortably in my home also without letting them free roam my space. The biggest surprise wasn’t how well my bunny adapted, it was how much my daily routine changed.
Now I have my bunny Junie, a brown, fluffy Holland Lop with long fur, floppy ears, and the best personality. He is the sweetest and most personable bunny ever. He loves running around, exploring, and especially eating his greens. Every one of my roommates is obsessed with him, and I honestly don’t blame them.
After a long day of work and classes, it is so amazing to come home to him. Having Junie around has made my space feel more like home, and he gives me something to look forward to at the end of a busy day. I never expected a bunny to become such a big part of my daily routine, but I am so grateful I get to have him as my little companion throughout college.
That being said, I don’t think rabbits are the right pet for everyone. They require daily care, cleaning, enrichment, and regular veterinary visits. Like any pet, they’re a long-term commitment, and it’s important to do your research before bringing one home. What works for me might not work for someone else, and that’s okay. At the end of the day, getting my emotional support bunny wasn’t just about having a pet, it was about finding something that brought comfort and a sense of calm into my everyday life. College is stressful, and everyone copes differently. For me, that comfort just happens to come with long ears, little hops, and a whole lot of personality!
