Bringing up Bunnies: Ashley Wallace

Ashley Wallace says breeding and raising rabbits might seem like a no-brainer, but she said the hobby has taught her discipline, determination and given her confidence as she prepares to head out into the college world.
Ashley, 16, a Harlingen High School South student, said she has been raising and breeding rabbits for livestock shows across Texas for a little more than four years. She said the world of stock shows is both challenging and rewarding.
“It’s fun raising these animals,” she said. “It’s very similar to having pets — I also enjoy attending the events and meeting all sorts of people and winning is an added bonus, too.”
Ashley took home first in class in the senior showmanship rabbit division of the South Texas Youth Stock Show in San Benito over the weekend.
She said the hard work she has put into the competitions is paying off in more ways than one.
“For some of the events, you have to interview, and study, just like if you were taking an exam,” she said. “This is really helpful because pretty soon I’m going to be interviewing for jobs and studying for college exams.”
Ashley said her interest in stock shows came fairly organically because her mother was involved in similar events as a child.
For now, Ashley said she is prepping for the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show in Mercedes in the spring. As for her future, she said she wants to go into music.
“Hopefully one day, I get to do music ministry or even compose music. It’s my true passion,” she said.