Viral haemorrhagic disease (VHD) can cause sudden death in rabbits. However, clinical signs of the disease can include a high temperature, depression and more characteristically, bleeding from the nose or mouth. Annual vaccination for this disease is highly recommended.

In previous years, we have vaccinated for one strain of the disease, VHD1. This vaccine also includes protection for Myxomatosis, a virus which can also be fatal. The combined vaccination should be given once every year.

A new VHD strain, VHD2  has now been identified within our UK wild rabbit population. This puts our pet rabbits at increased risk. After lots of hard work from the The Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund (RWAF) a vaccine is now available for this additional strain. You can visit the RWAF website for further information.

At Hollybank veterinary centre, we are recommending vaccination for VHD2. Our advice and vaccine protocol is as follows:

• The new vaccine must be given in addition to the current vaccine so that your rabbit is vaccinated against VHD1, VHD2 and mxyomatosis.
• The combined VHD1 and myxomatosis vaccine is given once every year
• The VHD2 vaccine is given once every 6 months
• There must be a minimum of two weeks in between the two vaccinations
• Please also note that the VHD2 vaccine is ordered in on an individual basis via special order. When booking your rabbit’s vaccination please make sure our Hollybank team are aware which vaccine you require so that we can make the necessary arrangements and appointment time for you.

To book in for your rabbit’s vaccinations with us please phone 01606 880890.