I've said many times since I came to know rats that the only drawback is their short lifespan.
Most people roll their eyes if you mention taking a rat to the vet for tumor surgery or shake their heads at the idea of daily Lasix for a rat's congestive heart failure. Fewer people understand how you could sit at your desk and cry over the passing of a rat.
Luckily I have met the people who do understand. Even though I haven't met many of them in person, they've been sympathetic when our rats have been sick and they've helped us celebrate recoveries and milestones like the birthdays. And we've come to know their rats, too, and to share the celebrations, the worries, and the last sad goodbyes.
That's why I can sit at my desk and cry for Maggie and Samba.
Posted by Abita at September 15, 2003 08:44 PM