My little chocolate boy, 6 1/2 year old Snickers, was helped across the Bridge yesterday afternoon. Mr. 'nickers, Nick, Snickda, Nickie Lickie, had a fine life, living with his family of fur, playing with his hooman and enjoying the weezil playroom, socks and ferretone. He developed adrenal problems two years ago, had surgery, and was on Lupron and Melatonin. A year ago he developed cataracts. About six weeks ago he started going downhill. His little semi-furred body was just wearing out... Late this past week his kidneys started failing, and it was time to make that most difficult decision.... A dear friend of mine who is a vet tech came over, and with the permission of the doctors at the clinic where she works, helped Snickers finally let go. I'm so greatful for her presence, support and compassion for both me and Nickie. Sandee, there should be a bunch of old friends waiting for Snickers - could you make sure they find each other? Ragamuffin, who crossed two years ago, Freckles (the "momma" of the group), Smudge (the big deaf bubba) and Jersey, (the leader of the pack) all crossed the bridge last fall. I know they'll be glad to welcome him. And if possible, could you see if you could help them all find Kirby the Wonder Cat - he was a beloved friend of the gang. It's so difficult to lose another one of the furkids... I spend a lot of time with my guys, interacting and observing; during the past few weeks, the group's behavior changed... their playtimes became more subdued and a lot less bouncy (picture that with a 4 yo, 2.5 yo, 1 yo and 4 month old kit!) Each of them spent time curled up around Snickers, gently washing his ears, or just snuggling. Frolic, the 7 yo who is the only one left of Snickers original group, spent extra time with him. They all had an opportunity to say goodbye after he was helped across. Today, the group is back to normal weezil mayhem, perhaps dancing the dance of life for each other, and for Snickers and a ferret life well lived... Please hug your furkids, Peg and the Perrysburg Polecats - Frolic, Black&Tan, Spunky, Guinness, baby Bandersnatch, and Doppler the "fer-cat" [Posted in FML issue 4585]