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Allen and Briony, self-described rabbit show and rabbit history geeks, have long been contemplating a way to capture and share stories, lessons and inspiration with fellow hobbyists and the world at large. As Covid-19 shut down shows, fairs and much of this community’s ability to get together, they realized that a podcast could help. Both began as youth exhibitors and competitors, and went on to became ARBA judges and leaders in the rabbit and cavy industry. Their intent is to showcase guests and topics that will educate, entertain and inspire.
45 Episodes
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Mini Lops became a recognized ARBA rabbit breed in the early 1980s with roots in Germany and California. Today, they remain one of the most popular breeds, especially with youth rabbit breeders. Sara Kitsemble has more than 25 years of experience as a top Mini Lop breeder and in this episode she introduces us to her breed and shares tips on selection, management, and showing. Also in this episode, a look back at 1995, and a history lesson on Mini Lop colors.
The ARBA spans international borders, including long standing crossover between rabbit and cavy breeders in Canada. But, did you know there are organizations in Canada which are separate from the ARBA which also license rabbit and cavy judges? Mary Lou Eisel is licensed across these associations, and explains the differences as well as how she was perceived as President of the American Cavy Breeders Association. Also in this episode, a look back at 1986 and a university study on personality types in cavies.
Showing rabbits or cavies for the first time can seem overwhelming. How do you find out about shows in your area? Which of your animals do you enter? What do you pack for the show? Who can you ask for help once you’re at the show? In this episode, Briony and Allen share helpful tips from you, our listeners, to answer some of the common questions new breeders face at ARBA shows. Whether showing is new to you, or whether you’re a longtime ARBA rabbit and cavy show guru, there’s something to learn in this episode!
The ARBA spans geographical borders beyond North America. Some of the first rabbit breeders on this frontier were Beh and Yo from Malaysia, who, in 2006, imported some of the first ARBA rabbits to their country. They recently visited the USA for three weeks while Beh finished his requirements to fulfill his ARBA judge license. Learn how the ARBA first came to this part of the world, as well as their first-hand accounts of visiting ARBA shows for the first time in the USA. Also in this episode, a look back at 2006, and Briony's crash course in Malaysian royalty.
Mentorship is a defining feature of the fancy. 2019 ARBA Convention Best in Show winner Linda Hibbert talks about her journey from mentee to mentor as she and a special broken American Fuzzy Lop doe danced to the ultimate award. Shortly after this show, Linda and her fellow breeders in Colorado faced lengthy shutdowns due to Covid and RHD. Always one to embrace a challenge, Linda persevered and along with a new club, inspired others to do the same. Also in this episode: a history of ARBA Cavy BIS winners and research on social behavior in wild rabbits.
For nearly forty years, Deb Morrison has been a force in the south central United States as a show secretary, distinguished Master Breeder, and ARBA District Director. Her Palomino passion, relationships with feed companies, and mentorship by the great Fibber McGeehee shaped her as one of the most heartfelt advocates for the show rabbit and cavy industry. Also in this episode, a look back at 1988 when the ARBA recognized four new breeds! Can you guess which they are?
Briony and Allen kick off Season 2 by catching up since the 2021 ARBA Convention, including the 411 on a new advent to the process of accepting new varieties by the ARBA Standards Committee, and some fun trivia about ARBA Convention Best In Show winners from the last 50 years. They each share their "bucket list" of upcoming podcasts guests, as well. Don't forget to follow The Rabbitry on Facebook for links to past and current podcast episodes!
Dr. Lukefahr is globally recognized as a pioneer in the field of rabbit production science. His work as a professor, author, and humanitarian have earned him many honors. In 2022, he spearheaded the update of the book, Rabbit Production, a 330-page resource which every rabbit breeder should own as a go-to for topics of rabbit nutrition, management, color genetics, reproduction, sustainability practices, and so much more. Also in this episode, Briony takes us back to the ARBA in 1982 with some history, and Allen shares a research article by Dr. Lukefahr on the benefits of small-scale rabbit operations.
Ask any rabbit judge or breeder which breed is the most challenging and the Harlequin will likely top the list. Rachel Zarse shares her story of relentless determination, and introduces us to her treasured breed. Also in this breed spotlight episode, Briony and Allen pay tribute to the Harlequin through its speculated origin and ARBA standard evolution.
ARBA’s 50th recognized breed is all the buzz in the industry these days. Maddie Pratt was part of the successful team of breeders and COD holders who brought the breed from Europe to ARBA recognition. She discusses evaluation, management, handling, and if Dwarf Papillons might be the next breed for you. Also in this episode, Briony and Allen chat about the upcoming 2022 ARBA Convention, as well as basic tips on handling rabbits.
Continuing from Episode 40, Briony interviews Kevin Whaley to hear the journey from concept to reality during the design and construction of the new ARBA Headquarters. Kevin unveils "the car," discoveries made while digging through never-seen ARBA relics, and a unique early rabbit breeder who had links to the Titanic. Also in this episode, a recap of 100 years of ARBA headquarter locations.
You've seen the photos, but the architect of the magic gives us a behind-the-scenes tour! Kevin Whaley has long been a supporter of our hobby, applying his creativity and sense of design and detail to many aspects of the industry, but this may just be his masterpiece!
Showing rabbits and cavies is one of the most family friendly activities, with unmatched life lessons and bonding experiences. When sitting down for dinner each night to catch up with the family is a rarity these days, just the drive to an ARBA show can bring parents and kids together for treasured moments. Carol Green and Nate Burbidge share their stories of how rabbits became a beloved journey for each of their families. Also in this episode, a look back at 1998, some lessons on coccidiosis, and very happy birthday wishes to Briony!
Tex Thomas is an ARBA Hall of Fame member, former Vice President, longtime Standards Committee Chair, three-time ARBA Convention Best in Show winner, and our most requested guest! In this episode, recorded live from the annual ARBA Homecoming in the Hall of Fame Library and Museum, Tex takes us from his beginnings as a youth breeder in West Texas through several ARBA milestones and reflections on a legendary and impactful tenure in the hobby.
It’s that time of year when breeders take to the highways and skies with their rabbits and cavies to compete in annual breed national shows. What exactly is a breed national show and how does it differ from the ARBA Convention? If you had to choose between one major show each year, how might you decide between a breed national show and the ARBA Convention? In this episode, Briony and Allen answer those questions and share insight on attending major rabbit and cavy shows. To find out more about national breed shows, visit the ARBA website for links to each national breed club, https://arba.net/recognized-breeds/
Briony and Allen speak to representatives from MedGene Labs of South Dakota, including Ashley Peterson, a senior scientist and Dr. Amanda Jones, a veterinarian and rabbit breeder. MedGene Labs is the developer of the first U.S. manufactured vaccine to protect rabbits against RHDV2. Both Ashley and Dr. Jones will also be present at the 2021 ARBA Convention in Louisville, and be giving a symposium at Rabbitcon on the developments of the MedGene RHDV2 vaccine.
Chris Zemny has been an ARBA member for nearly 40 years, and paved the way for women in the rabbit industry. She has traveled extensively around the United States and been invited to judge countless ARBA Conventions, breed national shows, and inaugural ARBA shows in Asia. In 2010, Chris earned an ARBA Distinguished Service Award, and in 2016 was awarded an ARBA Lifetime Judge License. Also in this episode, Briony and Allen go back in time to 1984, and compare earlier ARBA breed standards to those we know and love today, including the Blue Vienna which was later dropped from the ARBA Standard of Perfection.
There are many faces which comprise the ARBA which we all know and love, but few come close to the daily work of our Executive Director. While showing rabbits and cavies are linked to our weekends, Eric Stewart’s full-time job is in serving the ARBA, every day of the week. In this episode, Allen visits the ARBA’s new home in Knox, Pennsylvania, and sits down with Eric on a busy Tuesday. Eric shares memories of his early start, as well as his heartfelt transition from a childhood hobby to a lifetime career. Also in this episode, Briony and Allen discuss the upcoming ARBA Convention in Louisville, including the development of new breeds and varieties under review by the ARBA Standards Committee.
It's been a long wait, but the final weeks before the 2021 ARBA Convention in Louisville, Kentucky are upon us! Briony and Allen share some ARBA Convention trivia, facts and updates from the 2021 Louisville team, as well as volunteer opportunities which we all can take part in. Also in this episode, a special tribute to remember the late Stephanie Karinen Deatherage.
Whether you're attending your first or 40th, the ARBA Convention is the most anticipated event for all rabbit and cavy breeders. With that said, there's a lot to prepare for, and discover as you walk through the doors. In this episode, Briony and Allen share their tips from many past convention experiences, as well as insight from audience members. From cups and coops to dollar store dustpan deals, it's all here in this episode to make your next ARBA Convention a memorable one!
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