I think Peanut is trying to tell me she's ready to take a trip to Rattie Heaven and visit her mom, Aunt Oreo, and Cousin Punkin. I can't even being to tell you how sad I am. She is the oldest rat I have, and she and I have been through a lot. She is the best friend and pet I have ever owned, and to think of her leaving me is killing me.
I started to notice her acting odd on Friday. She started breathing through her mouth really hard, and it sounded really mucusy (sp). She did that about two times. On Saturday and Sunday she was just breathing really hard. You can't hear it, but you can see her sides heaving rapidly. So, to help her clear her lungs I gave her a good steaming last night- I took a really long hot shower to steam up the room real good for her. Today, I just got home from school and she is doing the opened-mouth breathing with the mucusy(sp?) sound. I also noticed she has a slight case of rice crispies. This is exactly what her mother went through, except she lost A LOT of weight.
Geeze, I know I sound kind of selfish saying I don't want her to leave..but it's true. She's my baby. She's my favorite (I know I shouldn't have one), and wherever I go- she goes. She's my little buddy.
I hate seeing her like this, but I refuse to take her to the vets office to be put to sleep*. I had to put two of my rats to sleep, and it was the most horrible experience ever. Peanut's mom passed away peacefully in a familiar place, in my arms- not by a needle prick in an odd smelly place. If she shows signs of suffering, then I might concider it, but for now I don't see any obvious signs of suffering.
I wish they had a rat loss support group here in town, I'll need one when she takes her trip.
Peanut, I hope you have a safe trip, I love you, and will always love you. Don't stick around and suffer just so you can see your mama, if you have to go- go, I understand. You have your real mama, aunt, and cousin up there waiting for you, so don't worry, you won't be alone. I'll be up there someday too. I love you.
I had to make this thread before it was too late, I know the time is near. Thanks for reading. Prayers/support will be greatly appreciated.
Here is a picture of mama's little tater tot (yes, I have weird nicknames for them, lol):
*added that in, I forgot to type that part, oops.
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