Article: "Recovering from cruelty" about the rabbit that was set on fire and also tortured by a boy (or boys) burning him with cigarettes
http://www.marinij.com/marin/ci_3108824

*sigh* Whoever set Phoenix on fire needs help.

Not much to say about this other than the obvious. I do wonder why some rabbits still trust people right after being treated so maliciously. Since I know they're not stupid like a lot of people think, I assume they just have a big heart and don't let the experience with one nasty human cloud their judgment when they meet a nice one.

From Marcy's site, which has pictures of Phoenix:

"Is it possible for a six-pound pet rabbit to demonstrate forgiveness, emotional fortitude and courage? Can the tragedy, senseless pain and suffering of animal abuse be transformed into an educational opportunity to promote responsibility and compassion?

While the following story of "Phoenix" a brave and loving rabbit, may be graphic and upsetting, you will be touched by the willingness of this special little boy to remain sweet and trusting of people despite surviving horrible abuse

Phoenix, a white and gray pet bunny, was allegedly doused in lighter fluid and set on fire by a teenage boy. The extent of Phoenix's injuries is shocking. He has second and third degree burns, with open wounds and cigarette burns over about a third of his body. His ears have been almost completely burned off. The remaining sections of his ears were so badly burned that they melted and are crisp to the touch. He clearly suffered immensely, and he is on antibiotics and medication for pain.

Phoenix lived with a mother and her teenage son at a house in the North Bay area. On October 1, the son and a group of his friends spent time "hanging out" near Phoenix in the back yard. The following day, a neighbor found Phoenix gravely injured and alerted the local Humane Society. Officers confiscated Phoenix, as well as cigarettes, lighter fluid, and a lighter, from the back yard. Phoenix was taken to the Humane Society, which then treated his extensive injuries and notified SaveABunny and House Rabbit Society.

Phoenix is currently in foster care, receiving medical treatment for his injuries. Despite the terrible cruelty he endured, he is a remarkably sweet, loving rabbit who has not lost his trust in people. He loves to be talked to and have his forehead stroked and chin scratched. He is active and eating well.

Although there are no witnesses at this time, the mother is upset by the act of violence and is interested in pressing charges. We are working with the authorities to hold the individuals responsible for this atrocity."

A flyer I did for the House Rabbit Society is now up on their web site. I hope people see it and can actually help the people who foster because, as always, they are swamped with rabbits and low in funds--they pay for everything out of their own pockets! It's incredible to me that that they have chosen to take on this responsibility. I could never do it.

So many rabbits, including my own Mr. Jones, Clover, Keeper, and Zoe would have been long dead had no one come forward to take them in when their time was up at the local animal shelters. The fosterers give the rabbits on the "kill list" the crucial extra time they need to let someone discover them and adopt them into a permanent home.

I am so thankful Karen rescued Mr. Jones when his time was up (how can anyone think of putting down such a friendly, out-going, easy to handle, cute, so soft, veggie hogging, attention-monger, etc... rabbit?!). Thanks to her, I have a wonderful companion who makes me smile everyday. Karen brought Mr. Jones and other foster rabbits to the House Rabbit Society EVERY weekend until they were adopted. That's dedication!