Getting old

Nibbles, our hamster of almost two years, seems to have a tumor on his left lower belly.

We knew he was getting on in years for a hamster, and hamsters are prone to tumors. The good news is he is still quite active, running around, stashing food, and spending time in his wheel. It doesn't look like he's in too much discomfort. He very well may continue to live a contented hamster life for many more months.

Still, we're keeping a close eye on him, giving him some extra treats and attention, and making sure he's still getting along. If things take a turn for the worse, we know a vet who can make house calls and can put a peaceful end to any suffering of our little furball.

Then we have to figure out what to do with Nibbles. I'm too much of a sentimental sap to just dispose of him down the trash chute. But we don't have a yard either. I know that the burial of a pet in a public park isn't legal, but he's just a tiny hamster. I can live with the ecological or sanitary impact of burying him, and I'm confident we can do it without getting arrested. Connyand I figured out a place that's perfect, and that we go to fairly regularly. To deter grave robbers, I won't mention the specifics here.

Conny has shot down my idea of a tiny coffin, which probably is good, since I don't know where I would get one.
posted 8:35 PM | link |