Jet had to leave today. He was at the end of his life, no longer able to struggle and cope with the constant lung infections. He most likely had severe pulmonary abscesses. Over the years and several necropsies later, we’ve become accustomed to the symptoms.
Jet had seen a vet in February 09 and she pretty much confirmed our worst fears. We put him on Baytril, doxy, Zithromax but it didn’t do any good. Finally after almost a year on meds, I decided to stop it and let him have his life back. Jet certainly never let on that he was sick. He was strong, feisty, played hard and loved his food… the only sign of his sickness was the grumbling in his chest, the coughing and slight porphyrin. This morning was a different story. He was listless and full of porphyrin. He couldn’t manage to keep his nose clean. Finally he panicked, started to run all over the cage, that’s when I picked him up, calmed him down and told him it was time to go… and he did.
On May 3rd 2008, Jet was born to April. A rescue my mom took in. 1 of 2 males in the small litter, it was evident he was going to be the chunky boss. But a good boss he was. He quickly gained the respect of the rest of the colony doing so without ever having to bully a rat. He so loved his buddies as much as his he loved his food.
He leaves behind 6 cage buddies… and he will be greatly missed by all.
Jet and Jude are back together, the brothers are probably tag teaming again, over the bridge.
Be well, be happy my little Jet Black. May 3rd 2008 – May 20th 2010
