Anne Billingsley graduated from the filmmaking program at the Centre for Arts and Technology in Kelowna in June 2021. For one of her final projects, she created a short documentary, The Domestic Rabbit, to educate viewers about misconceptions surrounding pet rabbits and about the consequences of abandoning them.
While the documentary focuses on domestic rabbits in general, it especially highlights the bunny-related problems in British Columbia, namely in Kelowna and Vancouver.
Here is a short interview I conducted with Anne about The Domestic Rabbit:
What inspired you to make The Domestic Rabbit?
“My family’s pet rabbits inspired me to make this documentary because there’s so much I wish I knew when we first got rabbits and I am still learning plenty! Originally, I wanted to focus on rabbits at Easter because that’s when so many are purchased on a whim and then abandoned afterwards. But it became more about heightening awareness of proper rabbit treatment in general.”
What did you learn, or what were you surprised by during filming?
“I was surprised by just how much I didn’t know about rabbit medical care. My knowledge is specific to what my own rabbits needed. At Warren Peace Bunny Sanctuary, Annie has dealt with a wide variety of bunny ailments and she has a far deeper understanding of specific rabbit diseases, treatments, and medicines.”
If there is one key point you hope people walk away with, what is it?
“If people can walk away with anything from my documentary, I hope it’s clear just how much about rabbits isn’t common knowledge: my video is just the tip of the iceberg! I hope The Domestic Rabbit sparks curiosity about these animals so that people will be inspired to learn more about bunnies on their own.”
Going forward, what can people do to address the problems shown in the documentary?
“My advice for anyone who wants to get a rabbit is research, research, research. Know how much work is required to look after a bunny. It’s a lot of time, commitment, and effort. There’s always more to learn. And it’s okay if you don’t get it right at first: be willing to learn with your bunny! I promise you will see the results: a trusting and rewarding relationship with your bunny is worth any amount of work and any amount of trial and error!”
Article written by:
Jane Billingsley
Jane is a long-time rabbit owner and animal-lover. She has owned rabbits for most of her life, and is passionate about advocating for the ethical treatment of rabbits and animals in general. She is currently working towards a Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Alberta, and hopes to pursue further education specializing in animal welfare and conservation. Outside of school, Jane spends her time writing, playing soccer, and cuddling with her bunny, Prince.
