R.i.p Hoppy Options

[Jimmy]

Two days ago I got up from my bed and had a shower, brushed my teeth, everything I would normally do in the morning. I then went to give my rabbits their breakfast. Upon entering the garden I instantly knew something was wrong - one of my rabbits was lying outside in the run in the pouring rain, only just breathing.

I took Hoppy to the vet and was told that she had an upset tummy, which caused her to collapse in the night outside. She was out in the cold harsh weather for more than 3 hours, just lying there. She became hypothermic. The vet told me that we could well lose her. They put her on a machine and warmed her up in the hopes that she would survive.

I spent that whole day worrying about her - she never left my mind for a second.

9 hours later, I was told that Hoppy had died.

I miss her so much and I just wish I could have done something beforehand.

But my main concern now is for her sister, Hazel. I have bought her an indoor home and put it in my room, so that I can keep her company.

But I'm looking at her right now, and she's searching for her sister, who is buried in the back garden with a small cross above her grave. I don't think Hazel has realised that Hoppy isn't coming back.. I feel so so so guilty and I just brake down when I see her all alone, confused. I can see her sometimes looking into the distance, staring, then searching again.

I miss Hoppy terribly, they were both nearly 4.. I think Hazel is going to have to live another 4 or so years without her and that breaks my heart so much.

Is there any advice anyone can give me to make this easier for her? I think she is the less socialable one of the two, so she isn't used to being picked up and hugged a lot.

We adopted them both from the RSPCA 2 years ago.

thanks in advance, it's good to know you're not alone in situations like this.. I just wish so much I could explain to Hazel what has happened.. I wish this was all just a bad dream.

Just a picture of the two:

Attached image(s)

 

[SandyD]

Jimmy,

I'm so sorry for your loss. Losing Hoppy must have been a shock and you must miss him very much. I can understand your concern about Hazel. It is heartbreaking to watch a pet grieve the loss of another. With both rabbits having been together for at least two years, I'm sure she will miss Hoppy. She may feel disoriented and confused for a while. This is only natural. I think you have already helped her, by bringing her indoors for now. If she is not much of a lap rabbit, maybe you can spend time being near her and talking to her, so she knows she is not alone. I know you are very concerned about her, but please try not to worry too much. Although animals do grieve the loss of their companions, they are also very resilient. Like people, in time, they do learn to get past the loss. It may be too early for you to even consider this, but perhaps in the future , you may want to think about getting Hazel another rabbit companion. I'm sorry that I can't offer more suggestions. Hoppy and Hazel are adorable, by the way.

Take care,

Sandy