Dr Ira Hanenberg

Unfortunately, we also had an unpleasant experience at the vet's office. As rabbit owners, we strive to keep our animals in a species-appropriate manner with companion(s) outdoors. The animals are rather shy and not cuddly rabbits. We recently noticed a large lump on the rear end of one of our rabbits, which, incidentally, was behaving completely normally and enthusiastically eating its greens. We immediately isolated the affected rabbit and made an appointment at the vet's office. The vet, apparently shocked by the finding, just like us, accused us of not keeping the animals properly, saying it was almost "a case for animal welfare." Her confrontational, accusatory manner hurt us deeply, and we felt it was completely inappropriate to speak to owners seeking help at the vet's office because they were worried about their animals. In my opinion, it would have been a case for animal welfare if we had ignored the finding and not sought veterinary care. Since she apparently wasn't very knowledgeable about rabbits, she referred us to another vet over the phone. Many thanks for this! Sensible diagnostics, openly communicated treatment options, and a friendly practice team immediately gave us a good feeling. Ms. Hanenberg describes her interactions with her staff as "ironic and satirical," but I find them harsh. I appreciate and respect that she works solely for the well-being of her patients, but this in no way justifies her lack of boundaries with pet owners.