My Pet is Dying

[SurvivingEveryday]

My pet rat, Ralph, is suffering from a heart problem, and is dying. He is one year old.

He has been such an amazing pet, and emotional support. I just found out today that a surgery would do little to correct the issue, and that we are going to need to make a VERY quick decision whether to humanely euthanize.... it just feels wrong to put something to death; even if he is suffering greatly. Ugh!

[Agora1]

Our pets give us unconditional love and as difficult as it may bewe need to give that love back to them when they are in pain

and suffering. I'm so sorry my friend. A decision that can break

our hearts. x

[bonkers65]

I am so sorry.

[Agamemnon2022]

I used to put animals to sleep for an animal hospital I worked at in college. It's completely painless. In most cases I felt owners waited too long before putting their pets down. Go by the animals pain. It is cruel to let them suffer.

[elaine2447]

It is very sad, I know from my own experience and I prefer animals generally to humans. To keep your rat alive when he is suffering is really cruel and selfish and I sincerely hope you make the right decision. That was one of the worst things about the horrendous abuse in Greece, not just the seasonal poisoning, but many of the so called rescuers have this notion that an animal should die "naturally" whatever they are suffering. The irony is that the word euthanasia comes from the Greek meaning "good death".

[SurvivingEveryday]

Thank you, everyone, for your kind words and encouragement. I had Ralph put down about an hour ago. It seems unreal, and I'm heart broken. But in the end, it was the correct decision for his terminal illness. Here he is about a year ago, in prime health. RIP buddy.

Pet rat

[Agora1 in reply to SurvivingEveryday]

Precious memory...may he RIP and may youknow you are supported in your loss. xx

[elaine2447 in reply to SurvivingEveryday]

So sorry, he looks a real sweetie little rat but you did the right thing. I've shed countless tears over my daughters hamsters. They are very dear to us and a great comfort. I had to have my horse shot in my teens due to tetanus decades ago and still gives me that tight feeling in the throat. I hope you gave Ralph the little ceremony he deserved x

[Pug_Power]

I'm so sorry for what your going through, I know it's not easy . Pets are such wonderful companions they fill our hearts. Try to think of all the good times with your friend but of course he will be missed.

[Mea-3]

I am so sorry to hear about your pet! It is heartbreaking as they are definitely a member of the family!