Hi Tim,
Sessions should be no more than 10-15 minutes at a time, but can be many times in the day. As earlier, I suggest that you also spend time just hanging out with Alex and talking to him. You need to get him comfortable with your hands. This would start out with the scritches, but don't do that until he bows his head for one. Just sit with him and talk. When he bows his head, rub his head. Keep the food reward for special rewards and verbal praise is also powerful. Liberal praise makes a difference!!! When he gets scared, don't chase him. Let him get settled first.
I'm relieved to know that you are vigilant about watching the dogs with your prey pets, including your rabbit. Please keep being careful, though. You don't want your dogs to feel jealous when you are spending lots of time with Alex... and then pounce. But as long as you are vigilant, it will be all okay.
As long as you inch along and let Alex set the pace, you will be fine. He wants a relationship with you, as much as you do with him. I'm sure he's so relieved that he's no longer stuck upstairs alone. Just take the time.
The Barbara Heidenreich DVDs are good. I recommend that you go in that direction. I'm sure Lisa will have grey't advice, once I figure out how to set it up here. Waiting for my webmaster to help me set up Lisa to help moderate this board. I'm NOT a techie!
Maggie-