This morning when I went to pass out breakfast I knew my ‘gooti hooded boy was not going to make it the day. He was lethargic and breathing very slowly. I sat with him cuddled into a blanket for about an hour, then it was off to work for me.
This afternoon he left quietly with a small, shuddering breath. His passing was peaceful and for that I am so grateful.
Neville was an old man, well past two. A special adoption from HVRR, a very special little man. He wore the biggest grin constantly and would drag himself over to say hello and gently lick my fingertips as I gave out treats and kisses to him and the rest of the crew. I watched his HED get worse, but it never stopped him. He was so happy to lay there and wait for me to come help him. I saw the love he was given as other rats brought him lab blocks and helped him groom. His best friend Ruth is quieter and she has a sadness in her pretty eyes now *sigh* She will miss him, so will I
Kaia, thank you so much for a wonderful gift, all the love he brought was amazing and having known him I realize how truly lucky I have been.
Rest easy Neville and thank you little man for your patience and love, for accepting me and letting me be the one you knew as your “mommy”. I am so humbled for having had the honor of knowing you at the end and can only wish I had been there to see you at the beginning of your amazing life.
I love you