For their entire lives, Donna and Figaro knew only cages, clinical settings, and cold, sterile routines. Used for testing and breeding inside a laboratory, they never got to feel the sun on their fur or the earth beneath their feet — until everything changed.
Thanks to the efforts of Save the Buns, the two rabbits were rescued and transferred to Woodstock Farm Sanctuary, a place dedicated to giving animals the freedom and care they deserve.
“When they arrived, they were timid and unsure,” said Riki Higgins, a team member at Woodstock. “They hadn’t been treated as individuals — just numbers in a system.”
At first, the pair was shy and hesitant in their new surroundings. But as the days passed and gentle hands replaced harsh ones, Donna and Figaro began to realize they were finally safe.
Then came a milestone moment: the chance to go outside for the very first time.
A caregiver carefully opened the door to their hutch, revealing a world they had never seen — sunlight, grass, and open sky. Figaro was the first to peek out. He sniffed the air, took a few cautious hops into the grass, then turned around to encourage his best friend to join him.
Donna was more hesitant. But with Figaro waiting, she eventually stepped forward, and together, the pair explored their new backyard — hopping, sniffing, and soaking in the simple joy of freedom.
“They were curious, eager to explore, and really encouraged one another,” Higgins said.
In that moment, everything changed for Donna and Figaro. Their world expanded from metal bars to open fields. Now, they spend their days basking in the sun, leaping across the grass, and snuggling close when it’s time to rest.
“Donna’s very outgoing,” Higgins said. “Figaro is a bit more reserved. But they love going outdoors together, then curling up on top of their little houses inside.”
They may have lost time in the lab, but they’ve gained a new life — one full of peace, play, and companionship. And they’ll never have to look back.
If you’d like to help bunnies like Donna and Figaro, you can support their care by donating to Woodstock Farm Sanctuary.
