RIP Sweet Winkie :(

[moosmom]

I woke up this morning and checked on Winkie. He likes to sleep on his back sometimes. I looked closer and noticed his breathing was even more labored than before. I tapped on the glass and he didn't respond. He didn't even roll over to see what the noise was. I called the vet and he told me to bring him in immediately. Dr. Haines, a vet that my family has used for years when we had our Airedales recognized me right away. It had been 40 years since I last saw him. He check Winkie over and said that he was in respiratory distress. He told me it wasn't going to get any better.

So, I had to make the ultimate decision. He gave him a sedative before humanely euthanizing him. I'm beside myself. After it was all over, Dr. Haines gave me a huge hug and told me that I was doing the right thing. I know, but deep down in my heart, I feel awful. I never thought I could love a rodent as much as I did you.

I don't have it in me to even look at his tank, let alone break it down.

Winkie, you were a wonderful little guy who had so much life in him and didn't mind my kitties. I am glad I rescued you from an awful fate. You gave me two wonderful years of pleasure. Play hard at the Rainbow Bridge and give Casey and Marina Mar hugs and kisses for me.

Love,

Your broken hearted Mama

[jennielynn1970]

Oh Donna... I'm so sorry to read this!

I'm sure Winkie knew you loved him with every bit of your soul, and he loved and appreciated all that you did for him.

Maybe you don't have to break down the tank set up... maybe you'll find another rat to help??

Big hugs to you!

RIP Winkie... play hard up at the Bridge and enjoy being healthy and young again!

[cassiesmom]

[[[[hugs]]]] Donna

[gini]

RIP Winkie - you are one of the lucky ones - you were well loved and cared for. You will be missed.

[Catty1]

Oh, DONNA - I am so so sorry...did you mention a while ago that Winkie had lived a longer life than most rats? I KNOW our loved pets always go to soon, no matter what - but Winkie was blessed to have you as her mom, and lived a great life because of you.

HUGS!

[Taz_Zoee]

I am so sorry Donna.
RIP Winkie

[Freedom]

You did the right thing, Donna, the self less thing, for Winkie's sake.

RIP, dear Winkie, play and romp free at the Bridge.

[davidpizzica]

Oh, Donna gentle {{{{hugs}}}} to you, honey. I feel as if Winkie was part of my family, too. Donna, I'm getting LES here remembering my decision to put Thai down. I know Thai and Winkie are looking down on us at the RB.

[Casper]

I am so sorry Donna.

Take comfort in the fact that you gave him a great life. He truly was blessed that the two of you crossed paths.

((((Hugs)))) and good vibes headed your way.

Rest Easy, Winkie.

[kasey93]

I had to do the same thing with my hamster who had a tumor.
Don't feel bad He is eating all of his favorites having a grand ol time over the rainbow~

Rip