FERRET-SEARCH@LISTSERV.FERRETMAILINGLIST.ORG
|
|
Subject: | |
From: | |
Date: | Fri, 28 Mar 2003 09:24:02 EST |
Content-Type: | text/plain |
Parts/Attachments: |
|
|
>...After they put him to sleep, we brought him home for the 2 others
>to say goodbye. It was the hardest thing we have ever done. Now the
>oldest of the three has cage rage again and doesn't really want to come
>out and play. It is almost like he is waiting for us to put Joe back in
>the cage. Beeker(the oldest one) hasn't acted like this since he was
>very little. Does anyon ehav eany suggestions that might help us. We
>have never lost a pet like this before and we are not sure how to make
>it easier on Beeker.
I'm so sorry to hear about Joe. I cant really suggest anything other
than time, but I can share our experience.
In January of 2002, we had a sudden loss of one of our 4 (at the time)
ferrets. She got into the back of our stove and was electrocuted before
we could get her out.
I think the best we did was to let each of the living ferrets sniff her
and say their own goodbyes. So I think that was an excellent move on
your part. I think animals need a way to say goodbye, just as much as
humans do.
We did notice some depression and behavior changes (a little more
aggression in one of them) for awhile, but I think it's a natural
response and something that really, only time can help. Just like
humans go through various stages of grief (denial, anger, depression
and acceptance), I think they have to too, especially if they were very
bonded.
All I can suggest is to let time pass, while giving them extra love
and attention. Be understanding if they start showing some differnet
behaviors (nipping or refusing to use the litterbox). I really think
that in time, they will be okay.
Our fuzzies have a webpage @ www.geocities.com/abbyshammock7 There is a
memorial page for our Ally, complete with several links on pet loss and a
memorial site where you can add a story about Joe if you like. Check it
out if you want.
Also, take care of you (the humans) too and know that you gave Joe a
happy life and he's in a better place now--probably romping around with
our Ally.
~Becky and Heather and the Magnificent 7
[Posted in FML issue 4101]
|
|
|