Bye bye Maggie

[littleheaven]

I am sad today. I had to put my rat Maggie to sleep two hours ago. I noticed last night she couldn't pick up her food, and was walking around the cage with her nose down, bashing into things. The dreaded pituitary tumour strikes again. I've lost three previous rats to it, so I know the signs well. Her little front legs were like ram-rods, all stiff, no co-ordination. I could have left her a few more days, but I've seen how these things work, rapid deterioration, inability to eat and drink, the lungs fill with fluid and they can't breathe... I didn't want that for her, so I took her to the vet today, while she was still relatively comfortable, and had her put to sleep. Gas first, so she was asleep for the injection. The vet let me hold her while she drifted away and it was beautiful and peaceful. She spent her last hours snuggled up to her sisters, Ella and Abby, blissfully warm and asleep. I think I did the best thing, she got to keep her dignity.

Comments

[mistress-mab.livejournal.com]

I'm so sorry, Claire. I wish I could give you a real hug instead of a virtual one.

[littleheaven70.livejournal.com]

A virtual one is just fine. Thank you, sweetie.

I can't believe I'm down to just two now. I started last year with eleven :o(

[damnskippytoo.livejournal.com]

You did good, Claire. Maggie's happy and pain free now. Now if we can just get you to believe it and be happy for her. *hugs*

[writingpathways.livejournal.com]

YOu did the best thing, it's definitely best to prevent as much discomfort and pain as possible. (((HUGS)))

:hugging Claire:

[rachelcaine.livejournal.com]

I'm aching for you, sweetie.