Best In Show

Tex Thomas is an ARBA Hall of Fame member, former Vice President, longtime Standards Committee Chair, three-time ARBA Convention Best in Show winner, and our most requested guest!  In this episode, recorded live from the annual ARBA Homecoming in the Hall of Fame Library and Museum, Tex takes us from his beginnings as a youth breeder in West Texas through several ARBA milestones and reflections on a legendary and impactful tenure in the hobby.

Dr. Lukefahr is globally recognized as a pioneer in the field of rabbit production science.  His work as a professor, author, and humanitarian have earned him many honors.  In 2022, he spearheaded the update of the book, Rabbit Production, a 330-page resource which every rabbit breeder should own as a go-to for topics of rabbit nutrition, management, color genetics, reproduction, sustainability practices, and so much more.  Also in this episode, Briony takes us back to the ARBA in 1982 with some history, and Allen shares a research article by Dr. Lukefahr on the benefits of small-scale rabbit operations.  

Ask any rabbit judge or breeder which breed is the most challenging and the Harlequin will likely top the list.  Rachel Zarse shares her story of relentless determination, and introduces us to her treasured breed.  Also in this breed spotlight episode, Briony and Allen pay tribute to the Harlequin through its speculated origin and ARBA standard evolution.

ARBA’s 50th recognized breed is all the buzz in the industry these days.  Maddie Pratt was part of the successful team of breeders and COD holders who brought the breed from Europe to ARBA recognition.  She discusses evaluation, management, handling, and if Dwarf Papillons might be the next breed for you. Also in this episode, Briony and Allen chat about the upcoming 2022 ARBA Convention, as well as basic tips on handling rabbits.

Continuing from Episode 40, Briony interviews Kevin Whaley to hear the journey from concept to reality during the design and construction of the new ARBA Headquarters.  Kevin unveils "the car," discoveries made while digging through never-seen ARBA relics, and a unique early rabbit breeder who had links to the Titanic.  Also in this episode, a recap of 100 years of ARBA headquarter locations.

You've seen the photos, but the architect of the magic gives us a behind-the-scenes tour!  Kevin Whaley has long been a supporter of our hobby, applying his creativity and sense of design and detail to many aspects of the industry, but this may just be his masterpiece!

It’s that time of year when breeders take to the highways and skies with their rabbits and cavies to compete in annual breed national shows. What exactly is a breed national show and how does it differ from the ARBA Convention?  If you had to choose between one major show each year, how might you decide between a breed national show and the ARBA Convention?  In this episode, Briony and Allen answer those questions and share insight on attending major rabbit and cavy shows.  To find out more about national breed shows, visit the ARBA website for links to each national breed club, https://arba.net/recognized-breeds/

Mini Lops became a recognized ARBA rabbit breed in the early 1980s with roots in Germany and California.  Today, they remain one of the most popular breeds, especially with youth rabbit breeders.  Sara Kitsemble has more than 25 years of experience as a top Mini Lop breeder and in this episode she introduces us to her breed and shares tips on selection, management, and showing.  Also in this episode, a look back at 1995, and a history lesson on Mini Lop colors.  

The ARBA spans international borders, including long standing crossover between rabbit and cavy breeders in Canada.  But, did you know there are organizations in Canada which are separate from the ARBA which also license rabbit and cavy judges?  Mary Lou Eisel is licensed across these associations, and explains the differences as well as how she was perceived as President of the American Cavy Breeders Association.  Also in this episode, a look back at 1986 and a university study on personality types in cavies.

Showing rabbits and cavies is one of the most family friendly activities, with unmatched life lessons and bonding experiences.  When sitting down for dinner each night to catch up with the family is a rarity these days, just the drive to an ARBA show can bring parents and kids together for treasured moments.  Carol Green and Nate Burbidge share their stories of how rabbits became a beloved journey for each of their families.  Also in this episode, a look back at 1998, some lessons on coccidiosis, and very happy birthday wishes to Briony!