Meet Sugar and Loki — two easygoing and calm rabbits who won over the heart of their foster-mom-turned-forever mom, Helen.
Loki (originally name Mighty) came to Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS) as a stray. He was in tough shape with a severe skin mite infestation. In addition to the skin condition that needed to be treated, Loki was underweight, had matted hair, ear and eye infections, and had a large abscess at the base of his right ear, most likely from scratching with dirty feet. The vets at SAS trimmed away Loki’s mats, started him on ear/abscess antibiotics and Revolution medication for his mites, and gave him lime sulfur baths to eradicate the more stubborn mites.
Through the combined treatments provided by SAS and the foster care of Helen, Loki beat his mites, lice, and infections during Helen’s three months of fostering him. As she began getting to know Loki’s calm and easygoing personality and realizing his more mature age, Helen made the decision to adopt Loki and provide him with a happy and healthy rest of his life.
Sugar (top) came to SAS at almost 10 years old, after being surrendered because her family was moving. Although she had fewer health issues than Loki when arriving at SAS, Sugar had lived in a cage in the garage and had developed territorial issues. Helen was able to address and resolve these issues by providing Sugar with more space in her home. The instant bond that Sugar formed with Loki was a sign for Helen, and she adopted the senior rabbit as well. Since Helen has adopted Sugar, her personality has blossomed. She’s become more confident and demanding for attention.
The strong connection Loki and Sugar share has provided benefits for both rabbits. While Loki is very low-key and easy-going, Sugar is assertive and is protective of Loki. Loki repays Sugar’s loyalty with routine grooming. In addition to Sugar’s blooming personality, Loki has also become more social and adventurous over time. “When I first adopted him, he was happy to stay in his pen —usually in his litter box or a box house. Now he enjoys hopping all around the living room,” said Helen.
Loki is not the only one who enjoys moving around. When asked what her favorite thing about Sugar is, Helen shares, “She runs big loops, figure-eights around the yard, and zooms around when she’s happy.” Another similarity that these two rabbits share is their love for food. According to Helen, Loki only moves quickly if food is involved and Sugar makes sure Helen knows when the food bowl is empty.
These sweet rabbits have formed a strong partnership thanks to Helen’s foster care and adoption. “I’m happy that they can live out their lives together,” said Helen.
Looking for ways to support Seattle Animal Shelter? Consider becoming a foster parent or volunteer, or donate to the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation to support the work of SAS.