In the bitter chill of an Ohio winter, two domestic rabbits were left to survive alone. As temperatures plunged below freezing, the pair huddled together in a front yard, abandoned by their former family and left exposed to cars, predators, and the cold.

For weeks, they clung to each other for warmth and comfort. Luckily, a neighbor noticed the frightened pair and called Snickerdoodles’ Rabbit Rescue — a call that would change their lives forever.

Fighting to Survive Outdoors

When rescuers arrived, they quickly saw the danger the rabbits were in. Not only were temperatures dropping lower each night, but the bunnies were near a busy road filled with fast-moving cars. Stray cats also roamed the area.

“[T]hey’d been out there for a couple of weeks with temperatures dropping lower and lower,” said Lauren Keller, founder of Snickerdoodles’ Rabbit Rescue and a veterinary social worker.

Many people mistakenly believe that domestic rabbits can survive outdoors like wild cottontails. But they are completely different species. Domestic bunnies rely on humans for shelter and safety, and when abandoned, they often don’t survive long.

A Careful Rescue

A small team from Snickerdoodles’ Rabbit Rescue, led by Cody Keller, the group’s treasurer and field rescue coordinator, set out to trap the rabbits safely. Using food to coax them closer and nets to secure them, the rescuers worked carefully until both were safe in their carriers.

It quickly became clear that the two were inseparable. They groomed each other constantly and refused to let the other out of sight. Rescuers named them Apple Juice and Cow Tale.

Relief at Last

The moment they were reunited at the rescue facility was unforgettable.

“[W]e’d never heard a bunny whimper and scream from despair and relief before,” Keller recalled. “Apple Juice knew he was safe — and when he saw us take his companion, Cow Tale, out of the carrier, he realized she was still alive, safe and there with him, too.”

Finally, Apple Juice flopped heavily onto his side — a bunny’s way of showing trust and relaxation — signaling that for the first time in weeks, he could truly rest.

Healing and a Forever Home

After their ordeal, both bunnies received immediate care, including flea treatment, spaying, and neutering. Once medically cleared, they were placed in a foster home where they could begin their recovery.

But it didn’t take long for that foster family to fall in love. Apple Juice and Cow Tale soon became foster fails, meaning their foster family officially adopted them.

Now, instead of shivering outdoors, they enjoy warmth, safety, and constant love together.

A Story of Resilience and Love

From surviving freezing nights to being showered with affection in a forever home, Apple Juice and Cow Tale’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of animals — and the importance of compassion.

“They are as happy and healthy as can be and thriving with their new family as indoor companions,” Keller said.

When the world turned its back on them, these two bunnies never left each other’s side. And now, thanks to rescue, they’ll never have to face the cold or loneliness again.