Origins
Bonnie Seeley of High Bridge, New Jersey introduced the Jersey Wooly at the 1984 American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) Convention in Orlando, Florida. It was recognized by the ARBA in 1988. Today, the Jersey Wooly is a popular pet and is also one of the most widely-exhibited rabbits at local and national shows in the United States.
The Jersey Wooly was developed by crossing the Netherland Dwarf and the French Angora. The result of this cross was an ideal small pet rabbit with a beautiful very easy-to-care-for coat. This is now a popular pet breed and comes in a variety of colors.
Appearance and Personality
A full grown Jersey Wooly weighs 1 - 1.5 kg (2.5 - 3.5 pounds) with 3lbs being considered ideal. They have compact body type. The ears are small and erect, standing about 2 1/4 inches in length. 3 inch ears are the maximum length allowed for exhibition stock per the ARBA's Standard of Perfection. The head is bold and squarish which lead the breed to being affectionately referred to as "Mugheads". A Jersey Wooly's coat is often referred to as "easy care" due to the high ratio of guardhairs. Ideally the Jersey Wooly's hair should be non-matting and require minimal grooming as an adult. Babies (under 6 months) may require more frequent grooming as they have a more cotton-like coat.
As with all breeds of rabbit, one concern is the potential for fur/wool block (similar to hair balls in cats). Wool block is caused by the rabbit ingesting hair while grooming itself and rabbits, unlike cats, cannot vomit up fur balls. A rabbit suffering from wool block will stop eating pellets and become relatively inactive. It is believed that feeding papaya tablets helps prevent wool block. But there is no proof that this works and there are various veterinarian articles that refute it. The best approach is in prevention - a diet that includes timothy hay, oat hay, or orchard grass hay will help to push ingested wool through the gut.
ARBA accepted varieties: Jersey Wools are Judged By Groups Rather than By Individual Varieties. Jersey woolies may be found in several other colors besides the Fallowing, However the other colors will not be showable.
These rabbits are very affectionate and playful. They love to be around other animals especially cats and dogs that are not hunter breeds or have a heavy prey instinct. They are very social. Jersey Woolies are very intelligent and can be taught some simple tricks. Most Jersey Woolies have very friendly personalities. As pets they range from laid-back lap bunnies to outgoing explorers.
Lifespan
The average life span of a Jersey Wooly can depend on many factors, including genetics and care. It is not uncommon for a Jersey Wooly to live 7-10+ years when properly cared for. There is a common myth that those who have had litters die sooner, but this has not been scientifically proven. Many rabbit breeders have healthy Jersey Wooly does who have had multiple litters live just as long as pet Jersey Woolies who have never had babies. It is also believed that neutering and spaying these rabbits will add years to their life span. Without neutering or spaying, rabbits can develop cancer and tumors that are life threatening. The risk of surgery on any small animal has to be considered. Because of their size, many small animals do not handle anesthesia well,and can die while in surgery.
Care
A jersey wooly's coat should be brushed regularly. Shear the fur when necessary because their long coat does not tolerate the summer's burning heat. Jersey woolies are easily litterbox trained with time and patience. Jerseys should be kept on a wire bottom cage because they have wool. A 16x20inch cage is is the Minimum recommended, although a 24 by 24 cage is more appropriate. Jersey Wooly rabbits enjoy being cuddled and played with by their owner when held properly, romping in a safe environment outside their cage, and playing with rabbit-safe toys.
Handling and petting your rabbit helps you to know their body. If any unusual nodes or masses show themselves, you may be able to get a jump on treatment. Bicillian can be used to combat these infections. Amoxicillin should never be used as it is fatal to rabbits. Don't be afraid to ask for treatment.
Where to get a Jersey Wooly
There are a few options to finding a pet Jersey Wooly. Jersey Wooly breeders can often be found online and at rabbit shows. American Rabbit Breeders Association exhibitors who breed their rabbits will often have its mother and father and may provide a pedigree with the rabbit. Rescue groups, such as Rabbit Match, and local chapters of the House Rabbit Society or Humane Society, may also occasionally have Jersey Woolies. When visiting a rabbitry, always check for bright eyes, the condition of the teeth and toenail, and the nose should be dry.
There are many ARBA exhibitors that raise Jersey Woolies. The National Jersey Wooly Rabbit Club maintains a list of breeders in the United States. Not all breeders are member of The National Jersey Wooly Club. There are severl yahoo groups for selling Jersey Woolies. Most State All Breed Rabbit Clubs will also be able to direct you to a Active Breeder. Try and find one that is local and close so that you can always rely on that particular breeder if you have any questions. ARBA exhibitors/breeders are often the best sources of information about the Jersey Wooly and their care.
