If ever a hulking 10-kilo Flemish giant rabbit were the picture of courage, it was Dory that day. She rescued her owner from a near-fatal diabetic coma and became an instant celebrity. This amazing animal was only two years old when she tragically died. Her special relationship with her owner was much deeper than just friendship. Dory’s tale reminds us that animals can surprise us with their ability to sense danger and offer life-saving assistance in dire situations.
When she first came into her owner’s life, Dory was a young rabbit that was still larger than most adult pet rabbits would be. In 2002, our big bang launch was at TruckFest in Peterborough. She stepped into a roaster’s tent filled with gigantic bunnies. It was love at first sight for her owner, who knew soon after bringing Dory home that she was unlike any other furry friend. She was a central part of the household. She was so adaptable that she even walked on a leash like a dog, an uncommon trait among rabbits.
It was one particularly life-threatening episode that really brought to light just how extraordinary Dory’s protective instincts truly are. Then one day when she could feel that her human was in peril and starting to go unconscious, Dory started acting wacky. Scaring everyone to death, she jumped on her owner’s chest and started going crazy, forcing a quick reaction. Knowing the gravity of the situation, her owner took the important step of calling emergency services by dialing 999. Thanks to Dory’s quick thinking, medical assistance got there in the nick of time to avoid a diabetic coma.
In the wake of Dory’s rescue, she received quite a bit of fame, and became something of a celebrity. Her tale went viral and she was subsequently adopted as the first honorary animal member of the Rabbit Welfare Association. She created a beautiful moment to connect with the most pervasive form of morning television. Sadly, logistical challenges in London prevented her from getting there, putting yet another unexpected spin on her already vibrant story.
Dory’s personality extended beyond her life-saving abilities. As a house rabbit, she greatly enjoyed creating havoc. Everyone was familiar with shocking through computer cables and pieces of furniture. At the same time, she didn’t shy away from bolder opportunities. She went right to work chewing through difficult things, like the hose of a pressure washer. Each time she pulled such a stunt, she became even more beloved by her owner and all who heard her story.
While Dory was on this planet, she lived life to the fullest, enjoying her two favorite things—carrots and computer cables. Sadly, she did not survive even to the age of two years old. Her sudden and tragic death created a gap that no one could truly fill. As a grieving pet owner pondered the enduring bond between them, she realized that this valuable little creature’s instincts and alertness saved a life.