We value thoughtful, respectful conversations and intentional placement.
Before applying, please take a few minutes to read the information below so you know how our program works and whether it’s a good fit for you.
Clear expectations help protect everyone involved — especially the rabbits.
Before You Apply
This checklist isn’t a test — it’s a tool for clarity.
Please be sure you can genuinely say yes to each of the following before moving forward:
☐ I am seeking an indoor family companion rabbit, not an outdoor or hutch-housed pet.
☐ I understand that placement at Hot Cross Buns is not first-come, first-served, and that fit matters more than timing.
☐ I am prepared to spay or neuter my rabbit (or adopt an already altered rabbit), and understand this is required for long-term health and well-being.
☐ I am willing to learn about rabbit care, including diet, housing, and veterinary needs.
☐ I understand that Hot Cross Buns is a boutique, relationship-based program, not a high-volume breeder.
☐ I am comfortable with a conversation-based placement process, rather than selecting a rabbit quickly or by appearance alone.
☐ I understand that rabbits are not placed as surprises or impulse gifts.
☐ I am able to travel to us for placement (to Oberlin, OH), as Hot Cross Buns does not ship rabbits or meet partway.
☐ I understand that adding a second rabbit or creating a bonded pair is a process, not an instant solution.
☐ I am open to considering placement with an adult rabbit as well as a baby, depending on what is the best fit for my lifestyle and needs.
If you find yourself hesitating on one or more of these items, our program may not be the right fit — and that clarity is a kindness to everyone involved.
Adult Rabbits vs. Babies
We are open to thoughtful placement conversations for adult rabbits who may be seeking families.
Adult rabbits are often:
already spayed or neutered
fully mature
known in temperament and habits
excellent long-term companions
Baby placements are handled separately and only when announced. We do not discuss or reserve babies on demand, and we do not operate on a “claim a rabbit” basis.
We work best with families who are willing to focus on temperament and fit rather than age alone.
Placement Fees
Placement fees are set based on age and whether a rabbit has already been spayed or neutered. Fees are the same regardless of color or markings and are not negotiable.
Unaltered junior rabbits (2–6 months): $350
Neutered bucks (up to ~4 years): $400
Spayed does (up to ~4 years): $450
Placement fees reflect age, veterinary status, and the time invested in each rabbit, including care, socialization, and — for altered rabbits — surgery and recovery.
We place rabbits only up to approximately four years of age. Rabbits beyond that age remain with us as permanent residents, as we prioritize lifelong stability at that stage of life.
Learning About the Rabbits
Information about rabbits who may be seeking families — particularly adults — is shared on the Hot Cross Buns Homestead site through our Buns Seeking Families page.
This page exists to introduce individual rabbits and share who they are as companions. It is not a first-come availability list, and not every rabbit shown there is guaranteed to be available.
Placement conversations always take place through the rabbitry and begin with the Placement Conversation Form, not through public listings.
Next Step: Placement Conversation Form
If our approach resonates with you, please begin by completing our Placement Conversation Form:
Submitting the form does not guarantee placement and does not obligate you to move forward. It simply allows us to learn about your home and reach out when a potential match may be available.
We review submissions thoughtfully and respond as availability and timing allow.
A Final Note
We know this page sets clear boundaries — and that is intentional.
Our goal is not to place as many rabbits as possible, but to place each rabbit well. Sometimes that means moving forward together. Sometimes it means recognizing that another path is a better fit.
Either way, we believe clarity serves everyone — especially the rabbits.
Thank you for taking the time to read carefully.