About Enumclaw Exotics Rabbits

Enumclaw Exotics Rabbitry is a hobby rabbitry located in the foothills of Mt. Rainier (about 35 miles SE of Seattle.) It is the "pet project" of my mom and myself. I have been involved in 4-H rabbits for over 8 years and decided to add breeding and show rabbits to my goals. I am now currently a sophomore at the University of Idaho, majoring in Animal Science, working to become a vet. I am also an ARBA licensed registrar, #RR416.

We did not take on this endeavor lightly and are in it for the love of rabbits. We have both been involved in 4-H for over eight years and have been involved with pets for all of our lives.

The name Enumclaw Exotics catches people off guard. The name came about more with our involvement with hedgehogs. We had been very active in the hedgehog community and had one of the only (if not only) recognized Hedgehog 4-H Projects in the country in our county. (Pierce County, WA) We have participated at the County Fair level since its introduction and have consistently been invited for special one day showings at the Western Washington State Fair in Puyallup, WA (one of the 5 largest fairs in the US.)

However, hedgehogs are deemed "exotic" and in order to breed on a larger scale, special USDA licensing is required. (Along with some special permits depending on where you live.) They are also somewhat difficult to breed and require a much larger financial investment. They currently cost upwards of $150 each and have some health issues due to what some think is in-breeding due to the very limited gene-pool. It is no longer legal to import Hedgehogs into the US.  Hence, rabbits seemed our logical choice and like potato chips -- no one can have just one!

We both love rabbits and the Mini Rex and Mini Lop are our favorites -- now we have fallen in love with Cinnamons! We also have two "pet" English Angoras that were a "thank you" gift from a 4-H family. Our doe Akiko has now won 4 BOB's in just 6 shows!

We have had the advantage of seeing many rabbits at the county & state 4-H fairs, talking with owners (kids & parents) and finding what fit our needs -- size, personality, clubs, local support, etc. We are developing and maintaining our breeding program and learning a lot as we go.

For those looking for a hobby for themself or for the family, consider rabbit showing (and maybe breeding). It is a great activity!