Moxie_Nod
06-28-2014, 11:28 AM
When we first adopted them, we found Pixel and Inch were terrified, having spent their first 8 months being groped and chased by people and animals.
In time, they settled into their more peaceful, custom-built tank.
Eventually they got so comfortable they started fighting with each other. Pixel liked to dig; Inch liked to run. So, they each retired to their own comfortable space. Pixel was relieved; Inch was lonely. But they adjusted and developed a comfortable routine.
Both surpassed the predicted mortality for roborovski hamsters. First, Pixel had multiple strokes and we feared for her, but she managed to thrive. Then, Inch developed cancer and in May 2014 we assisted her to die when she developed a painful respiratory infection. It was a devastating decision, to play an active role in the death of a beloved pet.
We managed our grief by spending more time with Pixel. Pixel had eventually become blind, but coped admirably. I reassured her everyday that she wasn't alone. Every additional week she thrived was seriously a gift. For animals with a life span of two years, a month feels like forever. I am grateful Pixel passed away without undue distress, simply of living a full life (and more). She joined her sister finally in June 2014.
In time, they settled into their more peaceful, custom-built tank.
Eventually they got so comfortable they started fighting with each other. Pixel liked to dig; Inch liked to run. So, they each retired to their own comfortable space. Pixel was relieved; Inch was lonely. But they adjusted and developed a comfortable routine.
Both surpassed the predicted mortality for roborovski hamsters. First, Pixel had multiple strokes and we feared for her, but she managed to thrive. Then, Inch developed cancer and in May 2014 we assisted her to die when she developed a painful respiratory infection. It was a devastating decision, to play an active role in the death of a beloved pet.
We managed our grief by spending more time with Pixel. Pixel had eventually become blind, but coped admirably. I reassured her everyday that she wasn't alone. Every additional week she thrived was seriously a gift. For animals with a life span of two years, a month feels like forever. I am grateful Pixel passed away without undue distress, simply of living a full life (and more). She joined her sister finally in June 2014.