The HopLine   The House Rabbit Connection Inc. of Massachusetts & Connecticut   P.O. Box 83 Springfield, MA 01101-0083 A nonprofit [501(c)(3)] org. All donations are tax deductible. (413)525-9222

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2003 House Rabbit Connection Membership Survey Results

41 RESPONSES in the following categories:

Newsletter | Annual Meetings | Website | Membership | Fundraising/Volunteering | General Comments

*Newsletter

1) When you receive HRC's In Pursuit of Hoppiness newsletter, do you:
29 a.) Read it cover to cover when it arrives
02 b.) Glance it over
07 c.) Read it over the next several weeks
04 d.) Other:

2) Are there ways in which you feel we could improve the content/format of the newsletter?
12 yes
19 Remarks

• It is not for me to say, since I live so far away. I feel guilty I cannot do more.
• I love the Pictures of our available bunnies. I really liked Morgan's article in this edition. I think we should have articles like that (informational - that goes beyond just basic care) in each newsletter. Also - for each newsletter - how about an article written by one of our HRC friendly vets that cover a health topic?
• Maybe a tips & ideas article
• The newsletter looks great "as is".
• I think the newsletter is very, very well done.
• No specific suggestions at the moment. It's nice to see other people's rabbits and learn about members. Of course informational articles are ALWAYS appreciated. Morgan's article this issue was great.
• I think it's great as it is.
• I think it's great the way it is. We love reading bunny stories! Also like as much information about rabbit care as we can get. Any hints about where to find a bunny sitter for vacations?
• More health information would be helpful. Otherwise the newsletter is great.
• I love getting the newsletter!! If possible -- more informative articles on rabbit care would be great (not to say that the articles you have published haven't been helpful). In addition, I shared a tip I use with Cadbury in one of my letters that was published and would be interested in hearing what other care tips other readers might have.
• maybe a question and answer area
• I think it's great! Good balance of topics, appeals and tributes!
• More vet articles
• I really enjoy reading it!
• Guest articles from members about how they became interested in rabbits.
  Exchange area for items for sale/trade. Rabbit sitting etc. We really like the stories from different people about their rabbits and their lives.
• None that I can think of, you all are doing an excellent job.
• I realize there are space constraints, but if the articles could flow from page to page, rather than begin on page 3, then continue onto page 7, it makes for a smoother read and less searching for the rest of the article. Also, if HRC is soliciting more volunteers, there could be a page just for that (or a section of a page) to list what specific volunteer needs there are for the upcoming quarter - urgent requests could be marked appropriately or put on a small separate piece of paper and inserted into the newsletter.
• articles dealing with a featured medical issue are always good, as are the letters/pix from adopted buns...it is nice to see how they are doing and keeps the new adopters involved.
• what about a question and answer column where members could ask questions about their rabbits and we could print the answers for all to read and learn. If there weren't enough member questions, they could be made up. This might be an informal way to get folks to learn more about how to properly care for their buns.
• More medical/health stories.

*Annual Meetings

1) If you did not attend the June 2002 Annual Meeting, why could you not attend?
03 a.) Time of the year
03 b.) It was on a weekday
10 c.) Location
04 e.) Not interested in elections
00 f.) Not interested in the guest speaker’s topic
14 g.) Other:

• I live in Weirton, WV
• Vacation
• Conflict with work schedule
• Just don't like that kind of thing
• was not a member yet.
• Out of town
• I'm a VERY shy person and don't know people well in the group
• didn't know about it
• I live in Greenwich, CT and would have gone if closer
• I live in New Haven, CT and usually the events are rather far away.
• don’t like to travel very far
  

2) For future guest speakers, would you be interested in:
17 a.) Pet First Aid
10 b.) Animal Control Officer
21 c.) Veterinarian
09 d.) MSPCA staff
07 e.) National Speaker
03 f.) Other:

• learning about other animal care facilities could be interesting
• a presentation on how other house bunnies are housed or on how fosterers keep the bunnies.
• rabbit whisperer. I'd love to hear more about what Dawn does.

*Website:

1) Have you ever visited our website at www.hopline.com?
36 yes
2) If yes, how often do you visit our website?
03 daily
07 weekly
10 monthly
16 other
3) Why do you visit the website? (Please indicate all that apply.)
28 a.) Rabbits available for adoption
18 b.) Events
11 c.) Items for sale
19 d.) Links to websites containing healthcare information
04 e.) Other:

• I like to see what is happening plus I try to encourage co-workers to visit your site and become familiar with your work.
• I find it interesting, love to see the photos and to find info or links to help with my buns.
• to learn more about HRC; view cute pictures and clever captions.
• we like the HRC community

• maybe...but looks good for now
• link to our newsletter on line?, link to meeting notes, listing of committees, volunteer opportunities available for HRC (highlighting volunteer options more - maybe as it's own section?), links to vets (as opposed to having at the bottom)
• More recommended vets, other rabbit friendly websites, SORRY- but better bunny pics, newbie bunny info.....
• No - it's very well done.
• health information
• maybe separate from the music stuff? It’s a little hard to find
• perhaps some members listed with areas of rabbit expertise (certain health issues, etc.) and links to their email address
• It seems comprehensive to me.
• In general the site looks fine and is well-organized.
• more info on how to care for rabbits for folks who happen upon the site and don't click on the hrs link
• Would it be possible to create a link between the Web site and articles that have appeared in the newsletter?
• We need to improve spell checking and grammar, especially in regard to adoption profiles.

*Membership:

1) What do you like most about being a HRC Member?
38 Remarks

• - being part of helping to save the rabbits...hard to answer since I am more than a member, being a volunteer
• You save rabbits, simple but true.
• Getting the newsletter, supporting the organization, helping bunnies, meeting others who love and help bunnies
• I get to help the buns!!!!!
• It's nice being involved with other "bunny" people and being kept informed of HRC events.
• The newsletter to inform me of everything that is going on... I love hearing success stories of rabbits. I also volunteer so what I like most is being able to help.
• I think I'm helping the homeless bunnies.
• It lets me help out a little.
• I feel that by being a member, I can help in a small way. I also like to be kept informed about all the issues you print in your newsletter and I pass along your newsletter to others. Whenever I can, I try to make a donation and your newsletter reminds me of that.
• The rabbits!!
• Knowing other people with similar passion for our gentle (sometimes) friends.
• The fact that I am helping to make a difference in bunny’s lives (financial help, fostering & learning more about the soft fuzzy friends)!
• the purpose of the organization
• A resource when we need help - and a community of rabbit lovers is a wonderful community indeed!
• being part of improving rabbit quality of life
• Knowing that rabbits are being helped.
• I adopted two buns! Met some nice people, and learned more about the buns.
• my connection to other bunny lovers, I always thought I was the only rabbit freak
• I care about rabbits and I have enjoyed doing some of the fundraiser events
• I like the fact that I am supporting such a worthwhile organization.
• the connection to other people who love and get an emotional high from rabbits, they give so much and want so little
• Being a part of a group that values rabbits as much as I do!
• rabbits. great people too.
• The work I do
• I like receiving updated information about rabbit car and hearing the success stories about bun adoption.
• Reliable information about rabbits and rabbit care. The Hopline as a resource.
• that if I need advice, there is someone to call. That there is a possible safe haven for bunnies who need help.
• Newsletters, being able to get info.
• being a part of a bunny circle with other folks who truly appreciate rabbits
• Sense of community.
• networking; finding like-minded friends

• Name, phone # & addresses of members...It would make it easier to contact each other, especially those of us who are out of the loop
• I'm happy with the guidance the organization is giving to current rabbit owners & also to people considering adopting the rabbits.
• nothing - I like that more $ go for the rabbits
• Rabbit sitting (for those vacationing) - fee to be donated to HRC.
• networking so that members could order and then split a bulk delivery of good bunny things like Oxbow pellets. There's an organic farm in Granby that grows lots of greens (arugula, lettuces, kale, etc). It's called Holcomb Farm. Maybe arranging a network so members could split a membership (approx $400 for the summer).
• I know we cannot because of $ constraints, but I wish we could offer services to folks who cannot afford spaying & neutering.
• It would be great if you could offer rabbit care products for sale (like you do for the events) -- toys, food, etc. And don't be shy about jacking up the prices -- people expect to pay a more for items designed to raise money for a good cause.
• I'd volunteer occasionally if things happened in Northampton, MA, or closer to home
• PSP discount
• Nothing that I can think of at the moment.
• List of reliable rabbit sitters for hire/exchange.
• That if I pass away, my bunnies will be taken care of if there are no other alternatives.
• I don't want any additional benefits for myself, but I’d say I would like as many bunnies as possible to be rescued and have loving homes. That is a given, sorry.
• a directory of members--names, addresses, phone numbers, email, etc. for those wishes to participate. This could be part of the annual paperwork. Also, bulk-buying opportunities, lobbying for animal rights.

• to let the word out that we exist via fairs, events, education, etc. Also maybe start having more member affairs like maybe a fundraiser supper or dance etc.
• I think we need to get the word out (1) for people who haven't heard of us (2) we need to make people aware of what we can do for them and what they can do for us
• I am thinking about an article for the next newsletter that would highlight the different committees of HRC and the volunteer opportunities available within each. I think putting the same type of information on the website would help. I think there are a lot of people out there who may want to volunteer to work with us, but they may believe that the only volunteer opportunities available are (1) Hop-line - big time requirement and need to have thick skin (2) Petco events, etc. - people may be shy, think they don't know enough, etc. (3) Fostering - people may not be able to do this. We need to let people know that there are a lot of opportunities for volunteering beyond the three above - even if it's just stuffing envelopes or folding newsletters.
• From my personal experience, I feel that because I am not able to attend meetings I am out of the loop. I am not into the politics of HRC..I just want to help rescue, foster, educate & adopt out bunnies. Maybe we could give out more info to the fosters about the inner workings of HRC so we (I) won't feel so separated from the group. Maybe it's just because I am from out of your area!! It would be nice if we could have a members websites page... Then we could get to know each other a little better!!
• More awareness? More fundraisers usually pull people in.
• I think you need to widely advertise in pet stores, like Petco, if they will let you. My neighbor spoke to me about obtaining a rabbit for her children and I encouraged her to contact HRC. People with whom I speak have mentioned about buying a rabbit for a pet and do not realize they can adopt from HRC. I have also confronted managers in any pet stores where I see rabbits for sale. In one store, they were going to feed a rabbit to a snake. Fortunately, a relative of mine who worked in the store brought the rabbit home and I found a home for it. However, I think the harder task is getting people to realize that rabbits do not belong in hutches outside by themselves. Is there any way to obtain TV or radio airspace time?
• Has HRC ever set up a both at local fairs to better inform fair-goers (as well as the bunny owners participating @ the fair) of the bunny’s intelligence and needs?
• I think you're doing a fantastic job! Can't think of anything else.
• I think the events at Petco and Borders are good. I also got some responses from the Easter letter to the editor, which you guys wrote and I sent to the Farmington Valley Post.
• PetSave Foundation in California has a program where you can pledge $35 to sponsor a bunny. You get to name the bunny (which is listed on their website with the name and the sponsor's name) and they send you a picture of the bunny. Their website is www.rabbit911.com - the info is under the Adoption Gallery. This might be more under fundraising then just membership, but maybe HRC could include a yearly membership if someone wanted to sponsor a bunny? This would be a great way for people who are unable to adopt or foster to get involved.
• advertise & advertise but that takes $ away from the bunnies
• Word of mouth is often the best way to advertise, maybe current members should be encouraged to recruit new members. (Like PBS's member month)
• perhaps an education/adoption day at the new Petsmart in Norwalk, CT--I could assist!!
• PSP discount
• We wind up telling a lot of people and giving them old copies of the newsletters
• I have passed out literature on my own to individuals who have recently acquired rabbits. Most people have no idea what their needs are and don't bother to read up on their care. HRC is a has a positive non-dictatorial approach to educating people.
• I'm still a member because I have rabbits and the newsletter keeps me informed about what is going on.
• Exactly what you are doing. Keep your name out there, and continue to hold events at Petco and other places similar.
• keep flyers and business cards on boards and anywhere bunny people are likely to be
• Get more people involved. But first we have to think of how to do this.
• I think we are beginning to branch out and do events of a different sort, such as the Vernon Day In the Park. This gives exposure to people who might not even have considered adopting a rabbit as a pet, as well as educating people, which is our mission's priority. I'd also like to see an annual auction-type fundraiser, ala the Lions Club, which I'd be happy to chair. I'd have put this under fundraising except this would be a great way to bring in, even for just one night, friends of rabbit-people who aren't rabbit people who will have a fun night, spend some money, and learn what this organization is about. Also, I'd like to get an HRC newsletter into every veterinarian's waiting room.

*Fundraising/Volunteering

1) Do you have ideas for any major mission-related events/activities or have grant-writing expertise?
07 Remarks

• - I have never written a grant. I thought we could expand our Borders event to other Borders or Barnes and Noble locations. I think we may want to find more outlets for spreading news - I know that Deb Young is going to be at the craft fair in Vernon, I know that we did the articles for the newspapers. I like the bus ads a lot! I was thinking if we could come up with more events or places like the one in Vernon - that would be good. Maybe local craft fairs, town events (like days or evening events on town greens), or other animal related events.
• I make filled stocking last year and sold every last one! We could do it as a group if you'd like.
• not really, but would be willing to give it a try.
• I work at a Council on Aging where one of my responsibilities is to apply for State Grants. The grants are fairly simple.
• I would suggest a 50/50 raffle to raise funds

• Sure! I'll help where/when I can.
• sure let me know what you need
• sure anytime I can help I will
• sure--esp. for lower CT
• I do scrap booking and I would love to help out at events providing my schedule allows.
• In a pinch, my schedule is not very cooperative
• I’m going to be doing the hop-line, but I’m open to anything
• could help people who live close to my address with care for their rabbits if they need it- I don’t know who my closest “Rabbit households” are
• I will be glad to continue hanging the adopt house rabbits flyers
• I have been contacted. I volunteered for the Six Flags event last year. I will try to volunteer for a few events this year also. I can do just about anything. Unfortunately, I have a job that takes up a lot of time. If/when I retire, I will definitely do more!!
• I did volunteer twice to help with the newsletter but no one ever got back to me about this. Right now, I do not have the time but I certainly will contact you again if things change.
• Not at the present time - have lots of animals and 8-month-old baby. I could possibly help with grant writing when needed.

• have fair experience from my job/currently volunteer
• Areas of Interest - Rabbits, Gardening, Star Trek, Walking, .... oh you probably meant "interests related to volunteering"...talents - Since I was rejected by Star Search, American Idol, and Who wants to be a millionaire - I am not sure that I have any. Expertise - doesn't expertise require a basic knowledge of some topic???? I guess it would be none. (currently volunteer)
• Graphics, pictures, fundraising, crafts
• working one on one with the rabbits, socializing them especially the ones who need to be associated with people more./currently volunteer
• hmmm...I'm flexible and will help to my best ability where/when needed and am willing to learn!
• No real expertise. Liked volunteering at PBS last year for HRC.
• writing, sending mail. Something that can be done without a regular schedule.
• would like to help at Fairfield County event such as suggested above
• I wrote an article about house rabbits (mentioning HRC and the hopline) for the Northampton Community Garden Newsletter
• could help on vacation care, share advice on care perhaps
• Professional educator and events planner.

*General Comments:

1) We would like to add your rabbit-savvy vet to our database. Please tell us:
10 Dr. Sabellico/Suffield Veterinary Hospital
02 Dr. Kathleen Clark/Twin City Animal Hospital
02 Dr. Melliar-Smith & Dr. Linnetz/Chippens Hill Veterinary Hospital
01 Dr. Hess/Companion Animal Hospital (Cromwell)
01 Dr. Pendleton/Cadiz Animal Clinic
01 Dr. Ellis/Sunderland Animal Hospital
01 Dr. Fahy/South Wilton Veterinary Group
01 Dr. Davis/Salmon Brook (Granby)
02 Dr. Becker & Dr. Cheevers/The Animal Hospital (Guilderland, NY)
01 Dr. Shannon Nakia (she is WONDERFUL!)/Windhover Veterinary Clinic
01 Dr. Zyra/Bolton Veterinary Hospital
01 Dr. Donna Cobelli/Quarry Ridge Animal Hospital

2) How did you first hear about HRC?
04 another member
03 newspaper
02 petfinder.com
12 Adoption/Internet
14 Remarks

• My mom found the HRC in search of help and answers after my bun about 2 years ago.
• I can't remember. But, I can say this, I'm glad I did! The rabbits really need us to educate everyone and to help them.
• I was looking for a rabbit vet and contacted the HRS (Boston). Someone there gave me the names of a few bunny people out here, including Deena.
• The Newington SPCA referred me.
• tax related issues
• poster at Bolton Vet
• Flyer (not sure where I saw it - maybe at a vet's office?)
• I don't remember. I think when I moved here I needed a vet recommendation
• I went to Petco
• Free copy of the Newsletter sent
• Dakin Animal Shelter
• Through a vet's office where I was volunteering: South Windsor Veterinarian Clinic.
• A co-worker saw a program about HRC foster buns on public access television and told me about it. Then I did a web search, and BINGO!

Other general comments?

23 Remarks

• I wish we could improve the hop-line system but am not sure how to do the way I would like to see it done. I think we should do more educational events like schools, shelters, and fairs. I am sure there are many more avenues of improvement that could be done if we can get more members involved to volunteer.
• Thank you for all your efforts into saving lives of the innocents.
• HRC is a wonderful organization. I am very happy that I have become more involved - the rabbits and people are great!
• I love what we do!!!!
• HRC is a wonderful organization of which we are happy to belong :)
• Keep on doing what your doing.
• Great effort, love to see my newsletter each month!
• Your organization is doing a great job - for the rabbits and for the members. The fact that you are able to continue keeping the interest of members and keep the organization alive is a huge accomplishment. Good work.
• The members of this board are a true inspiration! I know that it takes great time, effort, and commitment to care for our furry friends. Thanks for everything! We enjoy our membership and intend to renew annually.
• HRC is a great group that gets things done.
• I think HRC is doing a wonderful job! Adopting Cadbury was one of the best decisions we ever made -- we are thrilled with him! The services agencies like HRC perform are priceless. I am grateful there are wonderful people out there who are willing to use their time and money to assist need animals and educate the public.
• keep up the good work
• Thank you!!!!!!
• you are a great organization of really nice people--we're proud to be members
• Thank you for all of your hard work!
• We are 100% behind you. The HRC is a great resource to have in this area.
• You are doing a wonderful job!! Keep up the great work. I will try to send you a new picture of Liam (my rabbit). He certainly is one of the sweetest rabbits I know. I am so lucky to have him.
• It's exciting to watch us grow. I hope we can continue to do so. Oh, and the guy doing the newsletter deserves a raise.
• This is a terrific organization and I am so pleased to be a part of it
• Not too sure how to work the responses on your survey, so let me just say that we love our newsletter, and read it when it comes. We are far away to attend the functions, and our time is very limited, as I have an elderly parent living with us who requires care. We love our bunny, and he fit in very well with our family. I do suggest you to my friends.....carefully, as many of our friends have young children. as we know....kids and bunnies aren’t always the best mix. I heard of you originally through a friend of mine who currently is the proud mom of a pair of buns. I cant at this time volunteer much time, but I can offer some foster space....and have, in the past. the trouble, again, is that we are in southern ct. and far from most of your adoptive families to come to see a bun. We adopted "batman". last fall. I’m sure some of you still remember him as the toothless bun. He is a dear and we love him. He shares his home with 3 dogs and 2 cats.....one of which has truly become his best pal. He knows us and always greets us on his hind legs in the morning....saying let me out of my bed I am ready for a new adventure!!!!! He spends all day hopping about, and sleeping stretched out in the sun. I love your program.....and the only talent I can offer is that I am an artist.....so if you need something drawn, I would be happy to help out! Thank-you for all your hard work and devotion to these sweet buns, and lets hope this Easter parents buy stuffed bunnies as their spring impulse buy......and save the real ones the trouble!
• About the newsletter. I enjoy it. I try to read it right away, in case new knowledge can be applyied. learning of how bunnies see, led me to carry her in a way that she has full vision, and to approach her slow, speaking my familiar voice.
  I love the information, and I like seeing what pets need homes, and how newly matched homes are working out.
  I would like to see more stories of pets interacting with other species. Like how my rabbit has a pomeranian sister, and a quakor parrot sister. They really do play together. Maybe some readers don't realize how well rabbits adapt to other species. Blended critter families are amazing in their energy and ability to bond.
  Thank you for a well planned, well compiled newsletter.