Planning Ahead.

I just want to start off by saying that Toby is 100% ok and he has nothing wrong with him.

However I was just thinking today that when/if he does become ill in the future and needs vet care (i.e. surgery) do you think I should demand him have it doing? As the vet will probably say his to old and should leave him. But I was thinking weather I should push for it or not if he did become ill, I personally feel I would. This is all IFS and MAYBES, as I am hoping that Toby would pass away in his sleep when it’s his time (sorry to be so glum) however id rather his time never come. But I do feel I must prepare for it. Do you feel that I should get registered with a Rabbit specialist aswell? This is something I thought hard about as well.

What do you think?

Remember you know your rabbit better than anyone. If a time comes when he needs surgery but the vet doesn't recommend it you will know whether to push for it or not: try not to worry too much about it now, every situation is different, it is hard to make an exact plan.

I worried about the same thing when one of my rats was getting old, he had several problems which came on suddenly. My vets were very good, they didn't hold out much hope because of his age, but they left all treatment decisions to me: I went ahead with treatments as I could tell that my rat was still wanting to go on.

Just let Toby be the one to tell you whether to get treatments or not: you will be able to tell from his behaviour which decision to make, if a time ever comes to make a decision like this. Remember also there's loads of people on this forum who can give support and offer advice if a time comes when he becomes ill.

As to registering with a rabbit specialist, I would if there is one available near you, as it can put your mind at rest knowing if you do have an emergency you know that you're going to see someone who can give your rabbit the best possible care.

I hope I've been of some help, I know its hard when pets are getting very old. Try not to worry too much, its great that Toby has got to such an old age!

I don't think I can give you a straight answer for your question. It really depends on what the problem is, you need to weigh up what the treatment is and what Toby would have to go through, taking into consideration the full risks this needs to be balanced against what the probably outcome is going to be on his life considering his age. You can only make an informed descision if you have enough information about what ever 'problem' Toby has and its treatment, outcome and the risks involved.

The difficult bit is always having to admit that some one has been through enough and by doing anything further it is not going to have a positive impact on their lives and would result in suffering.

As far as your vet is concerned it really needs to be someone you can trust and someone who has excellent communication skills and will refer you to someone else if he does not have the knowledge required.

Sorry not really very helpful ........

Janice

Animal Rescue and Care

I hope when the time comes its very peaceful and you dont need to go down the difficult route of medical intervention. Wishing you lots more happy times to remember.

i can only agree in what everybody else has said, If the time comes when you look into his eyes and if you can still see fight there go for it but if he does look like he is getting fed up of trying then don't push him.

We all hope Toby last for years and years yet!!!

you know toby best and u will know what to do as already said u will know if he has the fight in him or or not, u know toby more then ur vet does
i hope he's wivus for a long time to come yet!

lisa

toby

toby is soooo cute and he looks like a fighter so im sure he will be with us for years more!