RABBITS AS PETS 43 



marked in a very peculiar way, being black, 

 blue or gray, except for a white band which 

 extends entirely around the body just back of 

 the head. This white band extends to the 

 neck and down the front paws. A white patch 

 on the nose adds to the distinctive appearance 

 of this little rabbit. This breed is especially 

 to be recommended because does and bucks 

 alike are robust and lively. The does make 

 exceedingly good mothers, and are often used 

 to care for the neglected offspring of less 

 faithful mothers. They are prolific, too, so 

 that it is easy to increase one's stock rapidly, 

 and the youngsters are readily raised. Being 

 very tame and playful, the Dutch rabbits are 

 perhaps the best pets which can be given to 

 young children. 



Next in value for this purpose I would 

 name the curiously marked Himalayan rab- 

 bit, which is often seen at the shows, and in- 

 variably appeals to boys and girls alike, if 

 they have any fondness for animal pets. They 

 are but little larger than the Dutch rabbits, 

 running from three to five pounds, and they 

 have short, soft fur which is sometimes called 

 mock-ermine. Although the body is white, 



