I want to say this to every hammy owner. No one
has to listen to a vet when s/he recommends pts. It is
your pet...
you make the ultimate decision. It is perfectly acceptable to say; "I would rather not do that just yet. Do I have any other options, such as antibotics or meds for pain relief?" If you really feel that it isn't time to pts sleep, don't do it. You also have the option, as do we humans, to see another professional. Some vets are more able to deal with so-called "pocket pets" and will go the extra mile. But, having said that, understand that your first priority should always be the hamster's welfare and not just your feelings. Loving a hamster means also allowing your little friend to leave life as painlessly and as peacefully as possible. I have seen some really elderly hamsters over the years be really wobbly, have their hearing and eyesight lessen, but still be perfectly able to get to their food (mumbling as they root through the dish), and drink from their bottle, although thy may start to fall asleep halfway through drinking, suddenly wake and finish drinking. They don't need pts, they are contented, even though old and frail. Some very ill hammies have pulled through because their owners did as you did, giving water on the tip of their fingers, or feed them mushed food until a hammy regained strength after an accident. It is not always necessary to put to sleep. Don't apologize for letting your hamster have a bit more time. It never seemed to me by your description of what was going on that your hammy was ever in pain. I think the vet jumped the gun. Puddle, you keep getting better <3
Re: Puddle really fast breathing
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