Our sweet Honey

by Valeria V. Berenshteyn
(Henrico, VA)

It is now, less than 24 hours since our teddy hamster : Honey passed away. She was 3 years old. We adopted her from Petco at the age of 1.5. She has been a great companion. She always ran to the sound of my voice. She was even included in our gang, consisting of a cat and a dog. The funniest thing, she was bossing them around. She loved exploring and on average she spend in that exercise ball about 4 hours. She was a clean freak, if one of her treats or food would fall down to the floor of the cage, she would make it a point to pic it up and put it in her bowl. About 2-3 weeks ago she was taken to the vet for absesses in her left pouch, I agreed to the surgery, they cleaned and flushed the wound, but were not able to close it, because her heart did not tolerate anaesthesia very well. We brought her home, for a week took every single step to make sure she has everything she needs, and after we finished antibiotics she stoped eating, than drinking and died in 48 hours. My heart is broken, but I know she lived good life and a happy one. The only thing I would do different, I would not let Vet to do a surgery, for what? Their life spen 3 years old. What did I put her through all that for? 7 days of "hard" life. The vet was terrific, but I wish they would not afraid to tell us: Let her be, she is at the end of her life! I do not know! Learn about animals as much as you can , before you bring them home! It does not matter how quite they are, or how much your youngest one begs you! I did not know much, and learned a lot of things, under stress. My hamster will not disappear in vain, if I showed even to one family to take responsibility for the animal you about to bring home. These creatures are very sensitive to a lot of diseases. But you do things right, they will bring you so much joy! We love you Honey, and we will miss you terribly. Goodbuy sweetheart, such a gentle, wise soul. Dina, Valeria, Leo and Natan, also Lizza and Kitty. 1/1/2012.