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| Willow, 2009-2011. |
Our little rat, Willoughby (Willow for short), passed away today.
I suspect he was about two and a half years old, which is very old indeed for a rat.
When we got him for my birthday in July 2009, he was already full grown and being sold as a "jumbo rat." I was just so happy that he made it to my birthday again.
In the past month, however, his health began to decline. He began refusing his favorite treats, and never finished his bowl of food. His breathing seemed labored. He lay about listlessly.
Today, he left us and we are sad, but relieved that he will suffer no more.
I like to think of Ratty in Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows, and how he told the Mole, "Believe me, my young friend, there is NOTHING--absolutely nothing--half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats."
I like to think Willow is off somewhere messing about in a boat.
Godspeed, my little friend.
You shall be missed.
oh my, that photo is precious. what a sweet little guy... i am so sorry for your loss.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry for your loss of beloved Willow. He is indeed floating about in a boat....
ReplyDeletexox Colleen
what a handsome face
ReplyDelete(and that wonderful name!)
...rest easy simply messing about
on the river, Willow.
So sorry for the ache, Sandra.
My daughter had a ratty who was
dear to her and many tears flowed
over his passing.
Losing a pet is so hard....love to you, friend.
I love your tender heart,
Jennifer
<3 so much love and hugs
ReplyDeleteSo sorry Sandra. I left a comment on Willows photo on Flickr. I too will picture him floating about in the boat.
ReplyDeleteI am sorry, Sandra. I am sure you will miss your friend. Yes, it is good to think of him messing around in a boat. My husband would agree, there is nothing quite better than that.
ReplyDeleteThank you all for your sweet and kind words of comfort. It means a lot to me that you would visit and care so much. Love to you all.
ReplyDelete