Recently I came across this interview with Denver veterinarian Terry Campbell. http://www.denverpost.com/headlines/ci_8414920

He talks about diagnosing and treating sick rabbits. Most of what he said seems like pretty sound advice.

But one thing that caught my attention was that he said petting and hugging are more human needs, and pets could do without them. I’d agree with the hugging part. I haven’t come across any animal that actually likes to be hugged. But as for petting, my Coco and Cosette love being petted. Cosette will sit for a long time being stroked as long as I don’t tickle her ears by accident. (And if that happens, then she’ll have to spend a long time scratching and grooming her ears before she settles in again for more petting.) Both rabbits also love being groomed by the other. So it seems to me that this is a rabbit need as well.

Does anyone have any other thoughts on the matter?