[XLVII]
HOUSING OF OUTDOOR PETS
The care of rabbits, guinea pigs, and other pets becomes of absorbing interest to every boy at some time, and he is fortunate indeed if he has room outdoors to engage in this pastime properly.
The comfort of the little animals, and their protection from their natural enemies, the cat, dog, weasel, etc., should be well looked after. [Fig. 224] shows a very simple and convenient house for animals which do not gnaw through wood, as the rabbit and guinea pig.
These two animals will usually live together peaceably, except when breeding. The mothers become sensitive and jealous of all strangers when raising a family. The house proper has a sloping roof, which is hinged to provide a convenient method of reaching any part of the inside.
The large space covered on all sides by wire netting is the yard, or runway.
The front of the house should face south, and be covered with netting, except the door, which slides up in the grooves provided, as shown in the detail.
The northern end of yard is boarded clear up to the top. This shuts off the cold north winds, and in that kind of a house rabbits will live the year round.