Drape Is Helped To the Bridge

Drape was helped to the bridge today. After a long bout of respiratory issues, it just became too much for the little guy. He was the last of his cage mates. His "wife" Sprite, passed earlier.

Drape was adopted when Chester came to Vermin Village. He and Chester were introduced and became best buddies. This was the first introduction I'd done with intact males. They did very well and I was most impressed. Particularly because they were both 6 months of age--not a good age to introduce intact males. I think they were both exceptional in that they wanted a friend.

They were soon joined by Eddie, Dumbo, Diego and Hades. All intact males. Eddie and Dumbo were a bonded pair as were Diego and Hades. Sadly Hades and Dumbo were the first of the group passed, Eddie followed and more recently Diego.

Rest in peace little one.

Diego Slips Away

Diego has sadly slipped away, leaving his cage mate Drape behind but joining his other cage mates at the bridge. Chester, Eddie, Dumbo and his brother Hades are already there to greet him at the bridge. He always looked at you as if deciding whether or not he wanted you to pick him up or if he wanted you to chase him--as a game. He was very gentle. I was crushed the day his brother Hades passed. I think it was made easier for Diego because
he had other friends to be with. He is survived by his last cage mate, Drape, who has also been very ill.

Rest in peace little one.

Dumbo

It is with great sadness I announce the passing of Dumbo. The other Peacemaker. I'm glad that Eddie, his cage mate, is now bonded with the three other cage mates, Chester, Drape, and Diego.

Whatever Hades had, it appeared that Dumbo had the same symptoms which to me means it wasn't cardiac, but something else. None of the other ratties in the cage even appear ill. I am hoping it stays that way.

Dumbo was such a sweet boy. He was a little more reserved than his cage mate, Eddie, but he soon came out of his shell and loved nothing more than being picked up and cuddled.

I'm so upset as he was just with his rattie friends when he passed today.

His remains are now awaiting transportation to OHS for private cremation.

Goodbye my little Dumbo, your cheerful personality will be sorely missed.