my poor roses - help!

About 6 weeks ago I planted this small rose bush in my back yard. It thrived and grew 4 buds, three which turned into roses and 1 that was on its way. I was sooo proud since I never had a green thumb! Well this morning I looked out and guess what the roses and the bud were gone. They must have been eaten by either a deer or a bunny.


I am a novis to this and I need suggestions on how to prevent this from happening again. Thanks

Perhaps a little wire cage around the rose bush? I don't know - I have't been in my garden for a week - I saw an 'unmentionalbe' in the yead - yes.....a SNAKE!!! I am petrified of them.......to heck with the plants. I HAVE TO SAVE MYSELF!!!!!

I don't know much about rose bushes, I don't have one, so I can't be of much help....Deb's idea sounds good, though.