I have to admit I am writing this article with absolutely no scientific proof that what I am about to tell is accurate. I have taken no time to rule out the possibilities that what I say may have been caused by other factors. However, what I am about to tell you, has worked for us, and may be worth trying in your own rabbitry.
I first heard about Vanodine at a show in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The folks from Stibbar were at the show, and they had diluted versions of the product as well as concentrated Vanodine. I noticed that each of the judges were using Vanodine at the judging tables after groups of rabbits were judged. With the simplicity of passing along so many different ailments, I thought this was a great idea. The question was, does it really work?
We got a little bit of sticker shock when we looked at the price of the concentrate. So we bought the smallest bottle of concentrate available at the show. When we got home he diluted it in a spray bottle and realized that the price, although a little high, would be well worth it if it prevented various illnesses from being picked up at a show.
Vanodine is simply a disinfectant. I don't have any idea what the "secret formula" in the bottle consists of. It is gentle enough to be sprayed directly on the rabbit, and if diluted can be used as an eye wash. It can be used when cleaning cages.
We started using Vanodine after every rabbit show. When we get home, we remove each rabbit from the carrying cage, and place them on the table in the barn. We spray a lite coating of Vanodine on their entire body and then return them to their cage. We will also disinfect food and water dishes with Vanodine.
Since we started using Vanodine, we not lost a single adult rabbit. Now it could be other factors. For example, all of the rabbits were moved into our new barn about the same time. So weather has not had as big an impact on our rabbitry. Our management of the rabbitry has become more proficient because of our own experience. So each of these could be playing a role in this success.
If I were a betting person, I would have to say that Vanodine has played a
very large role in keeping our rabbits healthy. I would recommend that you
at least give it a try. Oh, I almost forgot, the title of the article,
Vanodine - Myth or Miracle, I vote for Miracle! I know several breeders
would agree. Let us know what you think!
Rob Usakowski
Three Little Ladies
Rabbitry