The Jersey Wooly, also known as the Dwarf Angora in Europe, is a breed of Domestic rabbit weighing about 3 pounds with
a bold head and easy-care wool fur on their body. They are noted for their high intelligence, docile nature, and gentle
disposition
History of the Jersey Wooly in the United States
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 at its Convention in Madison, Wisconsin. Broken Jersey
Woolies were accepted as a recognized variety at the 2004 ARBA Convention in Rhode Island. 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 of the Jersey Wooly
A full grown Jersey Wooly weighs 1 - 1.5 kg (2.5 - 3.5 pounds). The ears are small and erect, standing about 5 - 7 cm
(2 to 3 inches) in length. The head is bold and squarish with large eyes. 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 wooled breeds of rabbit, one main concern is the potential for wool block (similar to hair balls in cats).
Wool block is caused by the rabbit ingesting hair while grooming itself. Routinely feeding papaya tablets is believed to
help prevent wool block. Feeding lots of high quality hay also may help prevent wool block. A rabbit suffering from wool
block will stop eating pellets and become relatively inactive.
These rabbits are very affectionate and playful. They love to be around other animals especially cats and small dogs.
They tend to become a one-person animal but 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.
Average Life Span of a Jersey Wooly
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 develop cancer and tumors that are life threatening.
This is not proven and needs to be confirmed through a reputable Veterinary or rabbit expert. The risk of surgery on any small
animal has to also be considered. Because of their size, many small animals do not handle anesthesia well and can die while in
surgery. There is also some anecdotal evidence of altered small animals living shorter lives.
Care of the Jersey Wooly
A jersey wooly's coat should be brushed regularly as hairballs are more common in rabbits with long fur and wool. Shear the fur
when necessary because their long coat does not tolerate the summer's burning heat. Also, don't use cedar chips for bedding and
potty training. Cedar chips of any kind are poisonous. Yesterday’s News or cat litter (unscented and non-clumping,as clumping
litter will get in the rabbits lungs and clog them), hay or ripped up newspaper are good mediums. Rabbits develop tooth spurs
that cut into their gums and cheeks and can cause ulcers and root abscess problems. Periodic check-ups should be performed to
eliminate these issues. Handling and petting your Bunny 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. The bottle costs roughly $50.00 for more than a
months dosage.
