Recently, there have been several very sad deaths at the center. A hyrax that came in having been attacked by a hawk, was found dead yesterday morning. I was upset because despite its killer teeth, I had grown attatched. What was even worse was finding out she had been lactating, meaning she either had young or was getting ready to. A beautiful darter that came in also died, as well as a couple of birds in the baby room.
Today, some workmen brought in a box of 42 baby pigeons. I helped look them all over, and we put aside ones that looked a bit worse for wear. After feeding all of the others, I found that the 6 set aside would need to be put to sleep. I decided, for experience, that I would help out. It was a terrible thing to be ending the life of a small helpless baby, but they would have died later on. I told each one in turn that I was sorry, but I didn't falter. I know these experiences will help me in the future, despite today's sadness.
Robby is still growing like a weed. The center has decided that if we do not get another baby in soon, he must be sent away to others so he can lead a proper life. His teeth are quite sharp now, and he can really bite hard when he is ticked off! Hopefully, he can stay here with me, but ultimately I must do what is best for him.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Death at the Center
Posted by bcclong at 9:53 AM
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2 comments:
Last weekend, NPR did a long story on a couple who raised a chimpanzee from birth, experimenting to see if it would be like a human if raised like a human. Your post today, regarding potentially sending Robby away, made me think of that story.
Oh, Bec. All of these losses sound sad. You are putting the well-being of these animals first which is the compassionate thing to do. Many people are selfish in their decisions for end-of-life care. They can't let go so they won't let their loved ones go even though the ill person will never be able to recover or even communicate. What you are learning will continue to help you. I'm proud of you.
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