Ulster County Fair finds a lot of bunny love
While youngsters with fuzzy bunnies may rank high on the Ulster County Fair cute meter, the care and feeding of rabbits says more about how much kids can accomplish when given an opportunity to be responsible human beings.
The observation was made by 4-H rabbit breed judge Joe Watson, whose nearly 20 years in the program has given him a respect for how much work goes into keeping the animals healthy.
“These kids have accomplished a lot and really done a lot for their age,” he said.
“In addition to showing the rabbit they have to do showmanship,” Watson added. “They have to learn the parts of the rabbit, what to feed the rabbit, what to give it for water.”
Judging rabbits is a fairly precise matter of determining how close they come to the standards listed for their breed.
“With a Thrianta, for instance, you want a firm rabbit that is fiery red,” Watson said.
Still, there the constantly moving nose and the standing on its hind legs that brings out the “ahhh” factor and has the youngest visitors thinking about how to convince mom and dad that a new pet would be nice.
“He could stay in my room,” 5-year-old Vanessa Terry announcing to her mother.
The response, coming after a quick stammer, from mother Julie Terry used one word as an entire sentence.
“No,” she said, and then began petting the tiny rabbit herself.
Watson had the explanation for the soften heart and immediate attraction between child and bunny.
“What makes bunnies the coolest animal on earth is the affection they give everybody,” Watson said. “Whether it’s a Flemish Giant, a 22-pound rabbit, or the Netherland Dwarf, which is two-and-a-half pounds, it’s the love they give to the kids here and the adults.”
Hurley resident Aileen Helsley was among the parents who understands how dedicated kids can be to their animals. She was grateful 4-H has provided an opportunity for her daughter Teagan, 10, to learn how much of a responsibility rabbits are while retaining the love and affection for the tender creatures.
“She’s been very excited,” she said. “It’s very exciting to get here, check them in and they pass inspection and are allowed to stay ... and there’s something important when you learn that one of your rabbits can’t stay.”
Aileen Helsley noted the other rabbit was not taking the heat well and had to return home.
“The rabbit that went home lives in her bedroom most of the time,” she said.
The Ulster County Fair began Tuesday and runs through today at the county fairgrounds, 249 Libertyville Road, New Paltz. Gates open at 10 a.m. daily. Admission is $17 per person. Parking is free for the duration of the fair. More info: ulstercountyfair.com.