On May 8, 9:58=A0pm, GuinG...@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
wrote:
> Unfortunately my guinea pig Maxine passed away early this evening. My
> mum found her this afternoon lying on her side very still. I picked
> her up and cuddled her in my arms. For the next few hours her
> condition deteriorated and she started to breathe noisly every 10-15
> seconds or so. After about 30 minutes of this, her breathing slowed
> down and eventually she just stopped breathing and died.
>
> I was there with her till the very end lying next to her, holding her
> paw and stroking her back to help comfort her in her final moments. I
> hope she did not suffer in any way, but I have to say I did find the
> noisy breathing distressing although her body was very relaxed during
> this time. She also had her eyes open, but I think she may have been
> unconscious because when I put my finger over her eyes, she did not
> blink they were just glazed over.
>
> When she died I kissed her on the cheek and shut her eyes. I told her
> to go be with Josie (my other guinea pig that passed away) and not to
> be scared.
>
> I'm glad she is at peace now, but I will miss her so much.
So sorry to hear of your loss. It sounds like Maxine had had a heart
attack. The periodic breathing you described (called 'Cheyne-Stokes'
breathing ) also often happens in humans too just before death due to
heart failure and cerebral anoxia. You quite rightly observed that
she was drifting in and out of consciousness, and would have been
aware of your presence and very much appreciated it. You did
completely the right thing for her....namely calm quiet love. A
peaceful end to a wonderful life with a caring owner. Who could ask
for more?
I know exactly how you feel, as even after 18 months now, I can't
replace my beloved piggies. One of mine died of a heart attack too,
and I did exactly what you did. She was 7+. Time is a great healer.
Heather x
|
