Was President Jimmy Carter ever attacked by a rabbit?

Matt:

My dad told me a story about how President Jimmy Carter was attacked by a rabbit. I own one, and I don't think rabbits would attack anybody. Is this story true? My dad said you'd back him up if I wrote you a letter.

-- Jason, San Diego

Some of us believe goofy facts because we don't want to insult our friends. Some of us like goofy facts that fit our preconceived notions. Then there are goofy facts we believe because they're actually true. Here's one of 'em, Jason. Jimmy Carter was "attacked" by a rabbit that came swimming by while he was fishing. He claimed the rabbit had a wild look in its eyes and was making aggressive noises, so Jimmy took a swat at him with an oar. The official White House photographer caught it on film. The official White House spokesman spent days trying to calm animal lovers and get the rest of us to stop laughing.