A Bunderful Volunteer

At House Rabbit Network (HRN), our volunteers are the heart of everything we do. This month, we’re excited to reboot our Volunteer Spotlights! January is dedicated to a very special human, Rosie Malsberger, our extremely dedicated Hotline Coordinator and a passionate advocate for rabbits in need. Rosie’s journey with HRN began with love at first sight—and has grown into an incredible commitment to helping bunnies and their adopters. 

Rosie’s love story with HRN began when she found her first bunny, Carlos (formerly HRN Pyrite), on Petfinder. “It was instant love,” Rosie recalls. “I couldn’t sleep during his first night with me because I was too excited and couldn’t believe this incredible bunny was really mine. I kept going over to his pen to remind myself I wasn’t dreaming.”

Rosie was deeply impressed by HRN’s adoption process. Her interview lasted over an hour because of her many questions, which the hotline member happily answered. “I felt so supported and prepared,” Rosie says. “It was such a positive experience that I knew I wanted to give back someday.”

A year later, when Rosie adopted her second bunny, Gigi, she again turned to HRN. Nervous about bonding, Rosie leaned heavily on the hotline team. Their patience and knowledge eased her worries and inspired her to join their ranks. “I admired how much the hotline team knew,” she says. “They were an invaluable resource for me as a new bunny mom, and I was honored when they let me join the team.”

 

 

A Day in the Life of the Hotline Coordinator

As hotline coordinator, Rosie plays a vital role in HRN’s operations. She trains new volunteers, answers applicant and voicemail inquiries, and acts as a liaison between the hotline team and other HRN leaders. Whether reviewing applications, conducting interviews, or managing urgent situations, Rosie’s days are filled with problem-solving, education, and compassion.

“No two interviews are alike because no two applicants are the same,” Rosie explains. “It’s incredibly rewarding to help people learn about bunny care and then see photos of them with their new bunny. It’s seriously magical.”

Rosie’s dedication extends beyond routine responsibilities. One standout moment was when her beloved Carlos donated blood to save another bunny’s life. “We got a call from Angell Waltham about a bunny who needed a transfusion ASAP. Carlos fit the criteria, and we were at the clinic within hours. His blood saved Moxxi’s life. It still makes me teary.”

Another memorable experience involved an urgent voicemail from someone who needed to find emergency care for their bunny. “Within 30 minutes, the HRN community had rallied, and we found someone to take the bunny. It’s moments like these that make me so proud of this amazing network.”

Rosie’s top advice for new adopters is simple: “Ask questions. We’re here to help! HRN volunteers work tirelessly to find good homes for bunnies, and education is a huge part of that. Never feel bad for not knowing everything—we all started somewhere, and we’re excited to support you.”

 

 

What’s hoppening at home?

Rosie’s passion for rabbits extends to her own “rex-obsessed” household, which includes Carlos, Gigi, Lulu, Dots, and Kermit. Each bunny brings unique personality and charm to her home:

• Carlos (HRN Pyrite): A 4-year-old velveteen lop who loves everybun he meets. “He’s the glue that holds this house together!”
• Gigi (HRN Gillooly): A 3-year-old harlequin and the “brains of the operation.” Try catching her for a nail trim…. she’s quick!
• Lulu (MSPCA): A 2-year-old mini rex who adores her sister Gigi and always seeks her approval.
• Dots (MSPCA): A 7-year-old velveteen lop who’s affectionate but struggles with boundaries. “He’d like to be glued to Carlos so they’re never apart.”
• Kermit (HRN Kermit): A 2-year-old English spot and the silliest, craziest bun. He’s the welcoming committee and loves meeting new friends! He’s beloved by Gigi and Lulu.

 

 

Why Volunteer?

Before discovering HRN, Rosie was a serious runner who completed 19 marathons (!!!!!!!) After knee issues ended her running career, she found fulfillment in helping rabbits. “Bunnies and HRN mean so much more to me than running ever did,” she shares.

Rosie believes volunteering is essential because it builds a strong community of support for bunnies and their humans. Her advice to potential volunteers is heartfelt: “You don’t have to know everything right away. If you’re passionate about helping bunnies, HRN will teach you the rest.”

Thank you, Rosie, for your tireless dedication and compassion. You’re making a difference, one bunny at a time!