There are many types of harnesses that people use on their rabbits. There are as many opinions about the best type of harness to use on rabbits as there are people that use them. If the harness is well fitted any of these harnesses listed here should work well for working and training your rabbits for agility and or hopping. The best harness for you and your rabbit is the one that works best for you. Do not use a collar on a rabbit or other small pet, it will not be safe.

Harness Fit

A harness should fit a rabbit snug. Tighten the harness on the rabbit so that it is snug fitting but your human finger can still fit between the rabbits neck and or waist. The harness may look tight on the rabbit because of the hair or wool of the rabbit.

Figure 8 Harness

The Figure 8 Harness is shaped like a figure 8 with one openings going around the rabbits neck and the other opening around the rabbits waist. It has on buckle that buckles over the back of the rabbit. This harness need to be adjusted just right to be comfortable for the rabbit. If this harness is not adjusted well the rabbit will be able to wiggle out of it.

Figure H Harness

This harness looks like an H laid out on a table. It has two buckles, one at the neck and one of the waist. This harness is easy to adjust for the comfort of the rabbit. This is a safe and comfortable harness if adjusted correctly on the rabbits body.

Rope Harness

The Rope Harness is a figure 8 Harness with a leash attached. It is all one piece and adjusts and buckles over the back of the rabbit. Once adjusted it will fit the rabbit (at the same weight) each time it is put on the rabbit. Again, with the figure 8 type harness make sure it is adjusted correctly or the rabbit can wiggle out of the harness and run off.

Vest or Coat Type Harness

This is a coat or vest that is made to fit the rabbit snug that has a ring on top for a leash attached. Most vest and or coat type harnesses close with velcro fasteners at the neck and the waist. Two layers of velcro is best. KEEP THE VELCRO VERY CLEAN for maximum security. Some are made with buttons or snaps. Check buttons often and remember how a button can pop off a shirt. If snaps become loose discard this type of harness.

No matter how much you like that harness. No matter how cute it is. If it does not fit the rabbit, it is NOT safe to use on the rabbit.

THE LEASH

Your best choice for beginning is a short light weight rabbit leash with a small clip. As your rabbit progresses in training and you become more accustomed to running with your rabbit you may want a longer leash. Some leashes are made with a bungie or elastic in the leash for flexibility.

[center]Marna Kazmaier - marna@rabbitagility.com

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