After we got the first rabbit and some knowledge we began to get more. We met a wonderful rabbit breeder who introduced us to red Satins. She sent us to Brian Sawchuk, a well known Satin breeder in our area. Brian sold my daughter an excellent young three month old red Satin doe. When it was five months old my daughter entered it in our county fair where the rabbit won best of breed. Our rabbitry has grown since then from the humble beginning into Crescent Valley Rabbitry.
Later on I started to get more rabbits. I bought more reds and whites from Brian. I want to say that in the beginning when I was the "new kid in town" Brian was always ready to share his knowledge with me. He came to my house and taught me how to cull my rabbits, showing me what to look for in type, color and fur. I appreciate all of Brian's help, he was always there when I needed it most. For you professional breeders out there remember when you see someone trying to get their feet wet. Lend them a hand. Most will never forget it.
I have since bought rabbits from other breeders, who, for the most part are always willing to help you out and share their experiences with you. I have removed rabbits and added others as I have grown in the understanding of proper breeding and culling techniques. You never stop learning, there is always something new that if you are just open to hearing/seeing, it may aim you in another and possibly better direction. If you want to learn a lot about rabbits read all you can about them. In fact, I badgered our town library for more books on rabbits. They now have a much more diversified selection. I have built my very own rabbit library at home, and it continues to grow.too, it is of generous proportion.
Let every rabbit show be not only for fun, but also a learning experience. Expand your knowledge every chance you get. "Every person knows something you don't, learn from them"- H. Jackson Brown.
In the beginning I wanted to have every color of Satin. I had reds, coppers, chinchillas, blacks, Siamese, Californians, whites, and Broken colors! I didn't keep all the colors very long. Soon I had only coppers, reds, and some chinchillas. Eventually I learned that when you have too many colors, you will never have enough space to improve. I culled down my stock and kept only chocolates, blues, blacks, and a few whites and coppers. It's not easy. I now have only Chocolates and Blacks, and the four Otter varieties.
Improving rabbits is a never ending game. Strive to make the best better. With perseverance you will surely reach your goal.
