Behind an unassuming red door in the Rogers Park neighborhood lies a mental health sanctuary full of 50 rabbits and 40 cats.
Founded over two decades ago, Red Door Animal Shelter is known for being one of the only animal shelters in the Chicagoland area with a focus on rabbits. Marcia Coburn, president of Red Door Shelter, knows the therapeutic power of owning a pet rabbit and has watched the significant impact the furry companions have on people’s mental health.
“It’s therapeutic to pet a bunny,” said Coburn.
While people consider dogs to be a “man’s best friend,” volunteers at Red Door Shelter have found the quiet demeanor and goofy personalities of rabbits to have a significant impact of the lives of Rogers Park residents.
“It’s a karmic experience,” said Jackie Kotz, board member and long-time volunteer.
Kotz remembers coming home to her pet rabbits after learning about the horrors of September 11. “I came home to my two bunnies, and they didn’t bark or make any noise. Just seeing them hop around brought me so much peace.”
Over the years, the volunteers at Red Door have watched the impact that the furry animals have had on the individuals that adopt them.
Toni Greetis, Vice President of Red Door, reminisces on the story of a family with a single mother and young daughter that suffered from social anxiety.
“The daughter was so shy she could barely speak, even around her own family,” Greetis said. “But after adopting a rabbit, something magical happened. The girl began to come out of her shell. She became more social, more confident. Adopting the rabbit totally changed the trajectory of the daughter’s social life.”
Greetis has witnessed a trend among the individuals that adopt rabbits. Unlike dogs or cats that demand more attention, Greetis explains that rabbits sit quietly by your side, providing a comforting and supportive presence.
According to the American Disability Community, “many people impacted by emotional stress find rabbits to be calming. This includes those impacted by depression, PTSD, schizophrenia and other conditions.”
Volunteers explain that these rabbits are much more than just pets, they are companions that provide emotional support, especially during difficult times.
Greetis tells the story of a grieving family. After the sudden death of their father, an eight-year-old girl and her mother adopted a rabbit named Halfway. “That rabbit brought so much joy into their lives,” said Greetis. “The mother later told me she adopted the rabbit to help her daughter, but it ended up helping her as well. It became a source of comfort for both of them.”
As winter approaches, Red Door Animal Shelter volunteers continue to spread the word about the mental health benefits of the furry companions.
“It’s unconditional love,” said Coburn. “Rabbits accept you and love you for who you are.”
