Welcome to RabbitShows.com

SITE SPONSOR:
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HELPFUL LINKS:

AMERICAN RABBIT BREEDERS ASSOCIATION
RABBIT RAISING EQUIPMENT
SHOW SECRETARY SOFTWARE

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Why Do So Many People Show Rabbits?
Rabbit shows and showing rabbits is a tradition that dates back 100 years in the United States when the stately Belgian Hare reigned supreme. The purpose for showing rabbits (and other livestock) was to place on exhibition the most healthy and virile stock that a stockman could produce. In competition, the best animal would win. The rabbit raiser would then go home and breed his first place animals, thus propagating only those animals with the strongest health and physical attributes. Therefore, such competition was an integral factor in the selective breeding and evolution of today's hardy and diverse specimens.

That tradition continues with over 46 breeds of domesticated rabbits which may come in dozens of varieties and colors. Showing rabbits is a healthy form of competition which betters the individual breeds of rabbits and the domestic rabbit, in general. Every person who shows rabbits finds a particular breed which has a special appeal to them- it is very personal.

Showing rabbits teaches young and old about breed characteristics, competition, health attributes, and rare breed preservation. The American Rabbit Breeders Association is the largest organization of its kind which sanctions all shows in the United States and Canada.

How Do I Enter A Rabbit Show?
Entering a rabbit show is fairly easy. You will need an entry form for the show. To obtain an entry form, download the show catalog or contact the show secretary and request one. List each of your animals with its ear number, breed, variety, sex and age. Fill out the form and send with appropriate entry fee.

How Much Does it Cost?
Entering and attending rabbit shows is one of the few affordable and wholesome activities for individuals and families. The entry fee is typically $3.00 - $4.00 per animal. In general, shows do not charge an admission fee and the shows are open to the public.

How Do I Get On A Mailing List For Show Catalogs?
Once you enter a show or two your name will be on the Secretary's mailing list. Many secretaries share their mailing lists. More and more shows are using email to send catalogs. Be sure to include an accurate e-mail address when you enter. In California, one of the largest regional E-mailing lists is maintained by CRCS. To add your e-mail address to the CRCS list (west coast exhibitors only), send an email request to: brnburner@aol.com. Be sure to include in your request your name and whether you raise rabbits or cavies.

Also check with your county fair to request a show catalog for small animal exhibition. County 4-H clubs often have information on upcoming 4-H and youth-oriented shows or events.

Do I Need A Pedigree To Show My Rabbit?
It is not necessary to have a pedigree to show your rabbit. Many rabbits conform to a breed standard. A pedigree assures that the breeding behind the animal is pure. However it is not a requirement for showing. Rabbits that achieve 3 major wins at a show are eligible to receive a Grand Champion certificate. A pedigree is required to obtain this certificate.

What do I need to show my rabbits?
Showing a rabbit is a fairly simple and does not require a huge expenditure for equipment, grooming and handlers like that associated with showing dogs. It is actually pretty simple. After submitting your entry, you will want to prepare for the show. You may need to buy a rabbit transport cage. Of course, you will want to be sure your rabbit is in the peak of health and condition for the show. You will also want to read the ARBA Standard of Perfection, a book with all of the showroom classes and weights.

Here is a list of items you will need to bring to the show (most of the items are available from our site sponsor, KW Cages):

Basics:
Rabbit Transport Cage
Food and Water for your Rabbit
Feed and Water Cups
ARBA Standard of Perfection
Grooming Brush
Folding Chair
Snacks

Beyond the Basics:
Grooming Table
Grooming Lotion
Show Bloom Conditioner
Cage Cart

What kind of awards can I expect for my rabbit to win at a Rabbit Show?
The awards, or premiums as they are called, can vary from show to show and region to region. In general, most shows award place ribbons for first through third or fifth places. A rosette or other award is given to Best of Breed winners. Trophies, plaques or other awards can be won at larger shows or for Best in Show. Some shows offer useful prizes such as transport cages or imprinted director's chair

At the largest annual show of them all, the ARBA Convention awards can vary from large trophies and cups to cash prizes of hundreds or thousands of dollars. The main thing to keep in mind when showing rabbits is that it is all for fun. Rabbits seem to enjoy the outings and they are an excellent stress reliever for individuals and families. Have fun!