|
Post by sunshine on Mar 9, 2008 23:08:53 GMT -5
Jaunty,
Let me start by giving you this big #bearhug# . What you are doing to help rescue and save these primates, let alone any animal is so commendable. Loving animals as you do shows what a big heart you have.
I'm sorry that Layla is sick and that you're feeling down right now. I hope the tamarin will start eating and get well soon. We are all here for you and you KNOW you can vent here anytime you need to.
Hang in there. You have our love and support. #hugz#
|
|
|
Post by mbucksfan on Mar 10, 2008 0:13:13 GMT -5
Jaunty, you were doing your best fpr those animals and no one can ever be perfect. I wish I had the touch to cure my patients or help so that they didn't have to face dangerous surgeries but it is only within me that I can hopefully calm their fears, make them laugh, ease their pain, give them meds to help them relax and try to make a bad situation just a little better for them and their families. Some days are good and some days are not but I try to treat them and their families how I would hope that My family and i would want to be treated. I work to the best of my knowledge base and I know that many patients appreciate what I do but that sometimes I wish I could do more. You would never do anything to intentionally hurt those animals and you did seek help when you realized there was a problem. In the meantime you were loving the animals and giving them the best care you could. In the pocess maybe the experience will help you some other time when an animal has a problem and because you dealt with this before you wil be aware. Life is a growing process and you are a kind and wonderful person. The animals are lucky to have you. #bearhug# #blowingkiss#
|
|
|
Post by ChiFan on Mar 10, 2008 9:26:23 GMT -5
Jaunty, you stop beating yourself up right now!! I was thinking of you yesterday when I watched an Animal Planet show called something like Chimp Eden? Have you seen it? It's so touching. If you hadn't rescued Layla, she may have had to endure, well, God knows what, or may not have even been alive any longer. You're loving her and caring for her and she's lucky to have you!
|
|
|
Post by 2ton on Mar 10, 2008 9:27:36 GMT -5
I just wish there were stricter laws to keep such animals out of the hands of amateurs. These animals belong in the wild! It is so awesome of you to try and help those poor animals who are not in good circumstances. And you can only do your best. If it isn't enough, it's no one's fault, it is just the way it is. It's the same way with the strays we find. We take care of them the best we can. I know how you feel, Jaunty. I keep wondering if there was more I could have done to find Buddy, the pittie, a no-kill shelter or a safe home. I would never want a primate as a pet...they need so much specialized care! The first place I ever went to on the internet, besides email, was the website for Koko, the gorilla that uses American Sign Language. Her handler, Penny, raises money to set up a Gorilla foundation in Hawaii.
|
|
|
Post by jaunty on Mar 10, 2008 18:12:46 GMT -5
Hi everyone You all have me in complete tears!! I am so lucky to have all of you by my side. I love you guys so much.. and I can't thank you enough for all your tender words. Heres a Huge hug back #bearhug# I have taken all your words in and they have helped me feel a little stronger. They came a time when I needed them most. I hope you guys all know how very important you are to me. I appreciate you so much!! Layla seems to be in good spirits today. I was the one fighting my demons in my head. I gave her about 2 tablespoons of Fruit and she ate it all. She relishes anything sweet. Tonight I'll try again and feed her her Primate diet Her (biscuits) I usually soak them in water until they puff up and it helps her eat them easier. Her biscuits are full of vitamins. Especially the Vitamin D 3. Right now...She's sleeping on her BiG Black Gorilla and new lime green Easter Bunny Beanie baby I just bought her for Easter. It is a beaded bunny and the beads are suppose to help keep her warm with her heating pad. Chi Fan... Yes I have seen Chimp Eden. I have only watched it a couple times and I am in love with it. I have so much admiration for Eugene Cussons, he completely blows me away. I have been so busy this week rthat I missed last Friday's episode. But I think I am going to look up animal planet and see if they have a article about the last show. I want to watch it faithfully. That's what I would love to be doing. Rescuing these Primates from terrible situations. I wish I could help every animal. But for now I can only help one at a time. Toni .... Yes I love Dr. Penny Patter Patterson. I have watched Koko grow up in all her newsletters. I have been a member of the Gorilla Foundation for many years now and also a member of IPPL International Primate Protection League, Center for Great Apes. Diane Fossey Foundation. James and I were lucky enough to volunteer in florida at the Center for great Apes. We helped with their annual Fundraiser. I was in my complete glory. The people their were so nice I felt like I had known them all my life. There was a young Chimpanzee named Knuckles there that has Cerebral Palsey. We were able to take him for walks to help him learn to climb small ladders and ropes. IHe was so sweet and so playful. He just wanted to be loved. We would push him around on those baby wagons. I have pictures of him somewhere. I'll have to try and dig some out for you all to see. It was certainly an amazing experience. One I will never forget and look forward to doing more of. Hopefully maybe here if I can ever get a rescue of the ground. *crossing Fingers* Mary Beth.... You really hit my heart strings. I know you truly understand my position. I think that's wonderful that you can give people in need the confort and attention they all deserve. That's why your a nurse...you have that "special" "Unique" quality in you that nurtures the sick. I commend you in so many ways. Not eveyone can do that job. It takes a strong, intelligent & compassionate human being to be a nurse. In my field I am faced all the time with abandoned animals. Mistreated animals. Sick and on the edge of death animals. It's hard to separate any feelings of despair. Like you said you treat your patients as if they were apart of your family. I do the same. Every animal that comes in that is on his way out I never allow him to die alone. Even if it's a little squirrel. We make a vow and we keep it. Thank you for your heartfelt words, I know you guys always see me say this but I will never stop. Your thoughtfulness is never taken for granted. Nancy...... Thank you for the HuG. It meant so much to me. When I saw that I just busted out into tears. What we have here is so very special. You never let anyone slip away from you. Your always there to give a helping hand and a positive word of encouragement. You are a "true" leader. Thank you for always being there for me and for allowing me and everyone to find confort here when we need it the most. This is truly my most sacred place. I feel so lucky to be a small part of everyones lives. Wow I am really getting mushy...sorry! You know me... I have to speak my mind! Once again #hugz# #thanx# I
|
|
|
Post by imbadd on Mar 25, 2008 16:32:55 GMT -5
Tomorrow will make 6 months since the passing of my little love sponge, Maxi (Maxine)... Six months sounds like a really long time but, it seems more like yesterday. I really miss that little needy, dependent, fur ball. My life is now less complicated as the big one, Sam is pretty independent. Here is the dilema... do I complicate my life & get another doggie? Do I get a doggie for Sam or for me? Sam was a very challenging, hyper pup who exhausted me in terms of exercise & housebreaking. Maxi, oh my... I remember all too well the carpet pad she chewed up out from under the rug when left alone... wtbs, Sam seems to be developing some neurotic traits and he may be a bit more normal with another doggie in the house. I dunno. For the most part, I don't want to complicate my life by adding another pet. However, this is the 1st time in over 25 years that I have had only one pet. Normally, there has been 2 dogs & a cat. Now, there is just Sam what to do.... what to do.... what to do... If I could have my little Maxi back, I would not hesitate .
|
|
|
Post by Tigerlily on Mar 25, 2008 17:30:12 GMT -5
Rose, coming from someone who used to have a zoo (A dove, an iguana, 4 dogs, 4 cats, 2 ferrets, 2 rabbits, a guinea pig with 2 babies and a prairie dog at the same time) and who loves her babydog, Nigel to the point of sometimes sitting and crying because I know I will someday have to deal with the same thing with him, I can tell you that Sam would probably be a little more normal with another "friend" to keep him company.
Take your time and look around. Check local rescues, especially if there's a particular type/breed of dog you're looking for. Go visit places that you find a possible pet and don't make a quick decision. My belief is that you'll know if it's right and if it's meant to be. Also, unless Sam doesn't like/get along with cats, consider a kitten instead of another dog. Hope that helps.
|
|
|
Post by 2ton on Mar 25, 2008 17:59:53 GMT -5
Rose, a rescue is an awesome place to find a pet...one that really needs a forever home. Also, most reputable rescues will be able to find you a pet that fits your needs and requirements...ie not overly hyper, pet and people friendly, housebroken etc. Both the guys I work with have rescue dogs and their dogs have turned out to be wonderful!
|
|
|
Post by imbadd on Mar 26, 2008 11:56:36 GMT -5
Wanda & Toni. Thank you so much. I really, really, really appreciate your feedback. #hugz#
|
|
|
Post by jaunty on Mar 26, 2008 16:27:45 GMT -5
Tomorrow will make 6 months since the passing of my little love sponge, Maxi (Maxine)... Six months sounds like a really long time but, it seems more like yesterday. I really miss that little needy, dependent, fur ball. My life is now less complicated as the big one, Sam is pretty independent. Here is the dilema... do I complicate my life & get another doggie? Do I get a doggie for Sam or for me? Sam was a very challenging, hyper pup who exhausted me in terms of exercise & housebreaking. Maxi, oh my... I remember all too well the carpet pad she chewed up out from under the rug when left alone... wtbs, Sam seems to be developing some neurotic traits and he may be a bit more normal with another doggie in the house. I dunno. For the most part, I don't want to complicate my life by adding another pet. However, this is the 1st time in over 25 years that I have had only one pet. Normally, there has been 2 dogs & a cat. Now, there is just Sam what to do.... what to do.... what to do... If I could have my little Maxi back, I would not hesitate . Rose, Remember this... A new pet will not relieve your "own" feelings of grief nor will it for Sam either. You both need time to heal. It has been six months since Maxi's passings, ask yourself this... Are you ready to "commit" rebulid a "new bond with this new open heart you are thinking of bringing home? Have you evaluated Sam's behaviors? Meaning...You said he was acting neurotic. In my experience animals experience grief in different ways& different stages. Sometimes it's obvious to us & other times it's not. Some dogs may show a bit more aggressiveness (usually when theres 2 surviving dogs) trying to establish their own hiearchy. Sometimes it may affect their eating habits or they just seem as though they are less active...possibly depressed. You are the only one that can observe & judge Sams behaviour. If you have kept Sam pretty much on the "same" daily routine you had when Maxi was around and not much has changed but Maxi's passing How is Sam acting? What has changed about him since Maxi's passing? Do you think he's ready for a "new" friend ? I have always believed that just as how we react to our family loss. I believe our pets react the same way. If you think your ready and you are #1 (your feelings) financial commitment & just ready to start a new relationship & have the time to devote to a new family member. If you answered Yes to all of this... I believe Things happen for a reason. Th ings go wrong so something else can slide in their place)With Maxi's passing on a positive side theres many dogs who need rescuing (take your time) to find the right match for you & Sam. remember...it's not that your replacing Maxi (she's irreplaceable) your just growing!! I hope this helps..Good luck and I know you'll figure it out and make the right decision. What ever dog you find he/she will be lucky to have a mom like you. xo #blowingkiss#
|
|
|
Post by imbadd on Mar 27, 2008 15:36:33 GMT -5
Tomorrow will make 6 months since the passing of my little love sponge, Maxi (Maxine)... Six months sounds like a really long time but, it seems more like yesterday. I really miss that little needy, dependent, fur ball. My life is now less complicated as the big one, Sam is pretty independent. Here is the dilema... do I complicate my life & get another doggie? Do I get a doggie for Sam or for me? Sam was a very challenging, hyper pup who exhausted me in terms of exercise & housebreaking. Maxi, oh my... I remember all too well the carpet pad she chewed up out from under the rug when left alone... wtbs, Sam seems to be developing some neurotic traits and he may be a bit more normal with another doggie in the house. I dunno. For the most part, I don't want to complicate my life by adding another pet. However, this is the 1st time in over 25 years that I have had only one pet. Normally, there has been 2 dogs & a cat. Now, there is just Sam what to do.... what to do.... what to do... If I could have my little Maxi back, I would not hesitate . Rose, Remember this... A new pet will not relieve your "own" feelings of grief nor will it for Sam either. You both need time to heal. It has been six months since Maxi's passings, ask yourself this... Are you ready to "commit" rebuild a "new bond with this new open heart you are thinking of bringing home? Have you evaluated Sam's behaviors? Meaning...You said he was acting neurotic. In my experience animals experience grief in different ways& different stages. Sometimes it's obvious to us & other times it's not. Some dogs may show a bit more aggressiveness (usually when theres 2 surviving dogs) trying to establish their own hierarchy. Sometimes it may affect their eating habits or they just seem as though they are less active...possibly depressed. You are the only one that can observe & judge Sam's behavior. If you have kept Sam pretty much on the "same" daily routine you had when Maxi was around and not much has changed but Maxi's passing How is Sam acting? What has changed about him since Maxi's passing? Do you think he's ready for a "new" friend ? I have always believed that just as how we react to our family loss. I believe our pets react the same way. If you think your ready and you are #1 (your feelings) financial commitment & just ready to start a new relationship & have the time to devote to a new family member. If you answered Yes to all of this... I believe Things happen for a reason. Th ings go wrong so something else can slide in their place)With Maxi's passing on a positive side theres many dogs who need rescuing (take your time) to find the right match for you & Sam. remember...it's not that your replacing Maxi (she's irreplaceable) your just growing!! I hope this helps..Good luck and I know you'll figure it out and make the right decision. What ever dog you find he/she will be lucky to have a mom like you. xo #blowingkiss# Jaunty, Thanks. You gave me a lot to think about. Right now, I am more concerned about Sam than me & I fear that I am a part of Sam's problem in that I am not distracted by another pet so, I notice him all the time My main concern is Sam's new eating disorder. When I had Maxi, he ate Iams Kibble. Maxi had to be hand fed special food or she would not eat. Now, Sam won't go near kibble and won't eat canned food unless he is hand fed. Also, he won't eat out of his food bowl any more. He has even gone several days without food. With that being said, he drives me insane begging for "treats" in the evening hours. For the most part, he is now very NEEDY which is not his normal behavior. He is almost always underfoot & sleeps most all day. On sunny days he constantly begs to go in & out & in & out & to go for walks. Me, I'm not really ready for another pet... maybe in time but, I can't go looking. I know Sam misses Maxi & Molly - he still gets excited when we go for a walk. As I'm putting on my shoes he no longer has either of them to run & jump on & then it dawns on him there isn't another pet to run to & sits & looks "lost". Maxi was the Alpha female and even though she was small, she ruled Sam; he would back off when she got serious. Molly (Siamese) of course had "claws" that Sam very much respected. If we were still in Alpharetta, I would get a German Shepherd mix or another cattle dog mix (a big dog) as that was an older home with a large large large large fenced yard. It was perfect for big dogs to run & play. Now, my house is new & my unfenced yard is very very very small. Thanks again! #hugz#
|
|
|
Post by Tigerlily on Mar 27, 2008 16:20:44 GMT -5
Rose-I know about small yards and big dogs. I truly wish Nigel had a fenced yard that I could turn him out in and sit on the steps and watch him run. He's never had that luxury and I'd love to see what he'd do if he did. I know he would love to have a buddy to keep him company while I'm at work but being in an efficiency apartment just won't allow that. That was why I suggested a cat since they tend to be less trouble to take care of but would still be a companion for Sam. Are there any dogs in the neighborhood that you could set up "play dates" for Sam to go and visit them to wear him out? Or a dog park where you could take him so he could interact with other dogs? I know we've got one near where I live but I've never been able to find it. I would so love to see what Nigel would do unteathered...He and Sam would probably have a ball since Nigel is still so full of energy. I wish I lived closer so we could find out.
Ya know, maybe Sam thinks you NEED him to do the things he does because there aren't others around and he notices your sense of loss without them so he's trying to make up for that. Dogs especially are such sensitive animals...
Don't dispare...things will work out and you'll do what you need to do when the time is right. Don't rush it.
|
|
|
Post by jaunty on Mar 27, 2008 22:59:39 GMT -5
Rose-I know about small yards and big dogs. I truly wish Nigel had a fenced yard that I could turn him out in and sit on the steps and watch him run. He's never had that luxury and I'd love to see what he'd do if he did. I know he would love to have a buddy to keep him company while I'm at work but being in an efficiency apartment just won't allow that. That was why I suggested a cat since they tend to be less trouble to take care of but would still be a companion for Sam. Are there any dogs in the neighborhood that you could set up "play dates" for Sam to go and visit them to wear him out? Or a dog park where you could take him so he could interact with other dogs? I know we've got one near where I live but I've never been able to find it. I would so love to see what Nigel would do unteathered...He and Sam would probably have a ball since Nigel is still so full of energy. I wish I lived closer so we could find out. Ya know, maybe Sam thinks you NEED him to do the things he does because there aren't others around and he notices your sense of loss without them so he's trying to make up for that. Dogs especially are such sensitive animals... Don't dispare...things will work out and you'll do what you need to do when the time is right. Don't rush it. Great answer Wanda #ditto# Or even a doggie daycare. Where they plan fun games and interaction with other pets. Very monitored enviroment. We have one in Commerse township..I think. As far as Sam not eating....after you have ruled out no health problems....Sometimes tough love is the best love.... He may go hungry but if he's hungry enough he'll eat it his food out of his dish. Don't give in to feeding him unless he is very sick. Tough love. I just learned that lesson with Lay;a my monkey and it's the hardest lesson to learn & understand. What we may think is best is not always what's best for the dog. Just my 2 cents. Let me think more on this. Keep us posted. If all else fails give your vet a phone call. It's important to nip this in the bud. Good luck!
|
|
|
Post by ChiFan on Mar 28, 2008 9:28:07 GMT -5
Rose, I know that Joliet has an active dog park - my nephew takes his dogs to it often. But I'm not sure where it is. I'll see if I can find out. Naperville has one too, but they relocated it and I'm not sure where it is now either!
|
|
|
Post by imbadd on Mar 28, 2008 9:44:21 GMT -5
You guys are wonderful. I don't have time right now to give a proper response to each of you BUT wanted to say #thanx# #thanx# #thanx# #thanx#
|
|