I posted this on r/Rabbits but I thought it was also relevant to this subreddit.
It can happen to anyone and is especially dangerous to those with pets and small children. Cheap furniture (like IKEA), even when anchored using what is provided, are particular safety hazards.
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I have an 11-year old mini Rex bun (Choochoo) who has gone through the usual health scares (gi stasis, etc.). In one case, we were told that he wouldn’t survive, but he fought through it. We sometimes joke that he has nine lives.
Yesterday, Choochoo was granted another life. It was a terrifying experience. I have a very large bookshelf in my room. It spans an entire wall. I’ve had it for years. It was drilled to the wall with whatever came with the kit.
And it completely tipped over while my precious bun was in the room. I was out of the room at the time, but I screamed when I heard the crash because I knew he was in there. I thought he was crushed when I saw the mess. The bookshelf covered almost my entire floor. Thankfully, he escaped by going under a floor lamp.
His only injury is a lost nail. He’s relaxed and happy now, but I can’t help thinking what could’ve happened.
I feel like a complete idiot for not securing my bookshelf more properly. It was flimsy and packed with books. Two screws were not enough.
If you have any furniture with the potential to tip over, make sure it’s properly anchored to the wall.
I need a new bookshelf now, but I’m not putting one in until I’ve educated myself. I don’t want this to happen again.
I hope by sharing this that no one else will make the same mistake. If you have any tips on sturdy bookshelf installation, let me know. I still feel guilty. I’ve given choochoo lots of kisses (and treats) and continually ask for his forgiveness.
by papaya0128