Bunny woes (silly, personal thread)

[Colleen Thomas]

Perdita, first of all I'm sending you some huge hugs.

I realise you've probably already thought of this, but do all of his teeth grow unevenly? Maybe just a small number would need to be removed and he could cope with a normal diet on the teeth he has left.

I can't believe a vet wouldn't do the procedure, no matter how many teeth would need removing. It is obviously for his own comfort, and surely for medical reasons. Apart from the extortionate cost you'd have to endure every other month, surely it's not good for a little rabbit to undergo full anaesthetic on a regular basis. It's a lot for the little fella to have to cope with. It does seem as if you need to find a more compassionate vet.

*HUGS*

Lou

A less greedy vet.

-Colly

 

[Guest]

Update:

After many phone call and email inquiries a vet in Oakland (across the bay) was recommended. I spoke to her yesterday morning, very long and thorough conversation about Petya, very impressed by her rabbit knowledge. She gave me hope!

There is a possibility that Petya's teeth might be 'trained' through grinding to correct themselves. Also, the procedure might be done without anaesthetic (which makes the cost so high). I took him in yesterday afternoon (long bus ride to our under-the-bay subway) for a thorough exam and was very impressed with the vet and technicians. A problem with one of his four front teeth (the big Bugs Bunny ones) was immediately noticed, the SF vet did not even see that!

Tomorrow I take him in early for the procedure plus getting neutured (so that in time he can have a buddy, or buddess), all costing much less than the SF fee. I have antibiotics to give him in preparation and a special syringe to feed him baby food (veggies and fruit) for now.

"We" feel well taken care of and greatly relieved.

One of you knows I was preparing to put Petya down, would have done it myself with love, but now it seems he may have a good long life and I'm really happy about that.

Thanks for all your support,

Perdita, Bunny-mum

 

[Colleen Thomas]

*HUGS*

Grats!
I knew it could be done! So glad you found a good vet Dita

*Hugs* for the bunny too

-Colly

 

[lucky-E-leven]

Thank goodness, Perdita. I'm so happy your diligence paid off and there is hope for sweet Petya. Good luck with that treatment and congratulations on finding a worthwhile vet. I still haven't.

~lucky

 

[cloudy]

So good to hear that, Perdita.

 

[Guest]

Lucky, I don't know if this is a possiblity for your species, but I had the good fortune to find the House Rabbit Society online. After a couple email inquiries a vet in Florida (!) recommended my vet in Oakland. I was even able to look up articles on line by my vet on rabbit dental problems. I would think this kind of research might help anyone looking for a good animal doctor.

Good luck to you, Perdita

 

[lucky-E-leven]

Thanks P,

I have a cat and in the four years I've owned him and after visiting three different vets, not one of them wanted to do anything but give him tons of shots and charge me a ton of money. I never get good answers to my questions and my concerns are typically brushed away directly as meaningless. For as much as I spend on annual visits, I want some service. I also want the peace of mind that he's as healthy as can be and will be around for a while. I'll take your hint and do some good research before his next visit. I'm tired of crummy service and he's tired of being manhandled.



~lucky

 

[Guest]

Lucky, my vet's even doing a blood workup to check Petya's liver, etc. There were plenty of cats and dogs there yesterday and I could tell their care was first rate. I've learned there is more to taking care of animals than shots and flea powder. P.

 

[Virtual_Burlesque]

I can add nothing to this conversation, as it has developed. The thought of a rabbit with braces squicks me rather a lot.

Considering the site where you asked this question, I am rather surprised no one inquired whether Petya has a mate.

There is nothing like sex in the offing, to give a creature the incentive to make the best of itself.

If it is good sex — that has been known to cross eyes and straighten teeth all by itself.

 

[Guest]

Perdita, that is wonderful news!

A for you and one for dear Petya:

Loulou

 

[cantdog]

Oakland, who would have thought?



Good deal.

cantdog

 

[rgraham666]

I'm so happy to hear the good news perdita.

 

[Guest]

Oakland, who would have thought?

THAT gave me a good laugh, Dog.

Everyone: I hesitated bringing this thread back up for the update, but now I'm glad. All your happy reactions make me feel good.

Hugs and kisses to all,

Perdita Cottontail

 

[lucky-E-leven]

Lucky, my vet's even doing a blood workup to check Petya's liver, etc. There were plenty of cats and dogs there yesterday and I could tell their care was first rate. I've learned there is more to taking care of animals than shots and flea powder. P.

I'm so glad you found a good one, P. My aunt and uncle have a wonderful vet but they live in another city and it would be quite a drive. However, when I think that he only requires one visit a year when well and any emergency could be handled at a local clinic, I think I'll call and schedule an appointment there next time.

So glad Petya will still be around to keep you company. I know he makes you smile.



~lucky

 

[MagicFingers]

You have my sympathy

My boy had a teddy bear hampster that was over 3 years old. Its hair had turned grey and some had started to fall out. He was a nice and loving hampster! I was very saddened to learn my ex had him put to sleep due to old age problems. At least I hope that was the real reason!

You HAD to go show Petya's picture, huh? Now, there's no way we can suggest putting him down. You said you had some liquid recipes? Can you feed him only that type food and leave his teeth alone?

This is SO tough. I feel for you.

Oops. Somehow I missed page 2. Glad you found some good help and options for him!

 

[Mhari]

So glad you found a good vet who can suggest some possible solutions! A good vet is as valuable (and as hard to find) as a good people doctor.

~M

 

[Guest]

Lucky, the trip once a year will be worth it for you and kitty. I take a 30 min. bus ride to BART (bay area rapid transit), then the train trip under the bay is about 20 mins., then a 6 block walk. That does not include waiting 15 to 20 minutes for each vehicle. My visit the other day took 4 hours total including waiting for the doctor and technicians. It was worth it.

best, Perdita

 

[Svenskaflicka]

Just found this thread. I was upset to read the first post, but then I read on, and I'm so relieved that things are turning out OK for both of you.

I don't want to imagine having to put a beloved pet to sleep - I love my kitty like a child, and I would be devastated to be without her. Is there anything more cruel than to have to kill someone you love to save them from suffering?

Sending a virtual cyber-carrot for Petya, and a big, big hug for you, Perdiyaya.

 

[Guest]

Anecdote: I was so tired arriving at the BART station in the city that night, around 9pm, with Petya in a carrier. As I went up the escalator to Market St., a young man was walking down the steps. As I got off the escalator he called to me, "M'am?" He looked about 19 or 20, clean cut, and had a deep-south accent (he was from Alabama). He had a city and transit map in his hands and looked grief stricken. He mumbled, was nearly incoherent. Said he'd never done this, was not a vagrant, was a junio in college in Ala., just left his father in the hospital, was going to his dad's home in Pittsburg (in the E. bay). I realized he was going to ask for money for the train. He was near tears. I had bought a $20. ticket knowing I'd be going back and forth a few times, and had $14. left on it. I gave it to him and told him to take care. He was stunned and began to ask for my name, I presume so he could pay me back, but I told him 'nevermind'. I held his hand and wished him well. As he walked down the stairs I asked him his name. Johnny. Walking away I began to cry, mostly a release at all I'd been through with Petya, and for my new hope, and fatigue. I've never done anything like that. 14 bucks is not spare change for me. But I will never forget that boy.

Just had to tell someone.

Perdita

 

[Guest]

Thank you, Flicka-mou. I hope all goes well with hubby, even if you need to almost kill him . Going to bed soon, have to leave for Oakland by 7am.

love, P.

 

[lucky-E-leven]

... I will never forget that boy.

Just had to tell someone.

Perdita

You are a wonderful person, P. I'm so glad you shared and even more glad to call you a friend.

Big hugs for you and a kiss on the nose.

~lucky

 

[Guest]

Update:

I just received a call from the vet. An hour ago Petya was breathing hard, with difficulty. She took an xray and found fluid in his lungs. He has pulmonary edema, his temp is low and he’s on oxygen. I’m waiting to hear more (vs. going to pick him up as planned).

I know whatever happens will happen, but I have to post this.

Trying to picture his tiny heart and the tiny oxygen mask.

Perdita

 

[McKenna]

.

 

[ABSTRUSE]

Fingers crossed for the bunny man, hugs for Perdita.

 

[rgraham666]

Jesus. I'm sorry perdita.

Don't you just hate it when Finagle's Law strikes?

Prayers, and hugs, from me to Petya and you.

Finagle's Law: the perversity of the universe tends towards a maximum.