The fairs have ended a few months ago and with that and many past years of showing at many different fairs (both county and state) I though I would share with you some tips and tricks for first time rabbit exhibitors at the fair.
The fair can be a very enjoyable event if you plan everything out well and know how to discuss your hobby with the public. It is a joy sharing information about this hobby. The fair is a great way to get people interested in the rabbit breeding hobby. Many people don't even know that their is such thing as showing rabbits until they go the fair, let alone all these different breeds. Their are however some things that you should and shouldn't do when educating the public for the first time.
Do:
-Let people pet your rabbit and explain to them the different types of fur/ wool rabbits can have
-Discus proper rabbit care
-Talk about what goes into showing rabbits
-Smile and be happy to answer any questions the public might have
Don't:
-Talk about eating/ butchering rabbits without the people you are talking to bringing it up first
Why? This can be a very touchy subject for some (especially children) and you do not want to upset people making them think bad of our awesome hobby.
-Let people hold your rabbit unless you trust that they won't drop it
Why? I have had way to many people drop or almost drop one of my rabbits. Although I have been lucky enough for none to get injured, I have concluded it is safest to just not allow people to hold my rabbits.
-Tell people exactly where you live
Why? Unfortunately their are people such as animal rights activists that would love to know where you live just so they can try steeling your rabbits or turning you into animal control. Telling them what town you live in is fine, but giving them you full address is not safe.
-Be rough with your rabbit
Why? It makes our hobby look bad and you could seriously injure your rabbit.
What To Bring?
What to bring depends on what your fair provides you. What the fair provides you should be included in the show catalog. Many fairs have your rabbits in solid bottom cages and require you to bring your own bag of shavings, food, dishes, bottles (if used), and anything else you use to take care of your rabbits at home. Some fairs provide everything needed to care for your rabbit. Make sure to find out ahead of time so you bring all the necessary supplies.
Other things to bring that the fair definitely doesn't provide include:
-Any grooming supplies (Brushes, combs, lint rollers,blowers, etc.)
-Show apron (If you have one)
-Show coat (If doing showmanship)
- Bucket and dustpan (If you are cleaning out your own cages)
- Grooming table
-Chairs
Caring For Your Rabbits At The Fair
If you are a 4-Her you are most likely to be expected to take care of your rabbits during the fair. This is something that you shouldn't take lightly because presentation is everything at the fair. Well kept up cages and well taken care of animals is a must. Below is a checklist of what you should do for daily care of your rabbits at the fair:
-Clean out cages at least once or twice daily
-Make sure the water bottle is not below half full at all times
-Feed your rabbit like you do at home
-Groom your rabbit as needed
Selling Rabbits At The Fair
Some fairs allow you to sell your rabbits at the fair, but some don't too. If you are unsure of what the rules are make sure to check with your barn supervisor ahead of time. If your fair does allow selling, most have you fill out receipts for the buyer for pickup on the last day of the fair. Be aware of the fairs rules, some sell rabbits for you and expect you to stay out of sales, It is again, best to check with your barn supervisor on rules. If you are given the opportunity to deal one on one with the buyer, make sure that the buyer knows how to properly care and handle the rabbit. It is also a good idea to give the buyer your email incase they have any issues of questions with the rabbit they get from you after they bring it home.
Most importantly, have fun! The fair can be a wonderful thing as long as you have fun with your fair friends and don't worry about winning, It is definitely a time of year we look forward to!