[Gpdd] Health - Buffy

[DFHAKES at aol.com]

Hi Debi,
 
It must not be easy knowing that you have a very sick little guinea  pig.  It 
sounds like you have a very knowledgeable vet that you can  trust.  
 
I have faced your decision a few times and there are no clear  answers.  Not 
eating is one of them, although I think what you might  see is gradually not 
eating as much.
 
You didn't mention if Buffy was on any antibiotics or pain meds (Metacam)  
but I think that would make her more comfortable.
 
It is very hard to know exactly the right time,  Buffy has trusted you  to 
make all of the decisions for her and now you have to make the most important  
decision.  By having done right by her for so many years (almost eight!)  you 
will not go wrong making this decision.  By asking this question, you  will 
make a good decision.  The holidays make it even harder.
 
Having faced this decision myself and helping others with rabbits &  guinea 
pigs, I believe that most people tend to keep their little ones around  for a 
week or two too long.  They don't see the reduced activity, the  reduced 
eating,etc. that are signs that the guinea pig is failing.  Guinea  pigs are prey 
animals and will hide all but the most obvious signs.
 
So then the question isn't when is the guinea pig ready to go,  it's when are 
you ready to let her go?  Once you tell your vet that you are  ready, then 
he/she can give you his medical opinion on the best time.
 
I have asked my boys at the Rainbow Bridge to look out for Buffy, and for  my 
girl Silky to not act like a diva and be a friend to Buffy.
 


Regards,

Dana Felice
Chapter Manager
Tampa Bay House  Rabbit Society

Please check out our rabbit information and lists of  adoptable rabbits 
at:_www.tampabayhrs.org_ (http://www.tampabayhrs.org/) 
http://wwww.tampabayhrs.petfinder.com  (check out our new Petfinder address!)


"It doesn't matter what the  kids say. Rabbits are not disposable like a box 
of cereal or a Disney video.  They WILL get tired of the rabbits and go on to 
the next toy. YOU will have to  deal with the consequences. Unfortunately, 
most people deal with the situation  by DUMPING their rabbits on someone else. 
Ultimately, it is the bunny that pays  for your inability to say NO."