Sarita — Thank you for that information concerning phenobarbital for rabbits. I’m definitely going to ask about this. I am glad that your friend’s elderly bunny is doing better and it is a good sign there is a hope for my bunny.
Roberta — Thanks for the hugs and the advice. I do hope that things change soon and there are more “exotic” vets in the area. If not, the best bet would be for us to move!
And Beka27…
I learned when I had to euthanize my big English Spot after her heart attack that vets here do not want to see rabbits. But, in the biggest case of emergency, I know that one will. He said point blank, “I do not know much about rabbits but I’ll do it for the sake of the animal.” If in the case that I need to go this way with Dima, I know it can be done.
I really dislike how the vet has “given up” on my rabbit. I understand there are pros and cons of treatment and what treating one condition can do to the other condition. (If that makes sense? Sorry for the run on sentence.) I just “wished” and “hoped” that the chance could be taken to medicate and see what happens! We have NO outstanding bills with this vet so I cannot understand the cross attitude with us. We pay the full amount right after our visits. So, that cannot be an issue of “giving up”. I know the office is very nice to dog and cat owners. And then I think, is it because my accent is difficult to understand? Maybe we look stupid? I never give orders to say “You MUST see my rabbit..” either. My rabbit has all of his health and import papers to say he was healthy when he moved here too. I would not have moved him if he was not healthy or a carrier of anything! This could not have happened anyways.
I am NOT saying I know better than any veternarian. I did not go to school like them to learn their trade. I believe when they make opinions, they are educated ones. But, if there is a treatment, atleast try to do something. Yes, my rabbit is elderly but with good care, he could go on for some more years. Who knows? I just hate seeing him have so many off days.
Yes, I’ve contacted Dana Krempels for her insight into the matter. I very much liked her approach and her kind manner. However, I contacted her before I got conclusive blood work results back. However, her advice was to TREAT the E.C, with varying strength and forms of medication. (If interested, I could let you know the names?) Treat the E.C, see where we are in terms of progression, and go from there.
I am glad that Dima is still with us. If in the case I know HE has given up and he no longer enjoys life, I will know it is time for him. But, in the case where he is still strong, wants treats and grooms, I will continue to bother people to get him help. If I had my way (and my driving licence was valid here), I would take my rabbit as far as I could. I am at the point of having a rabbit related divorce. The rabbit, the amount of money I’ve put into the rabbit and my “emotional craziness” over the rabbit are big points of contention now. I guess I am just a crazy rabbit lady.
Maybe this has been answered in another thread (I forgot to search as this just come to me) but if a rabbit is passing from old age, what are the signs?
I very deeply apologize for yet a second rant. But from bringing this up with you guys, I at least have a lead on what to do next. Thank you for your time. And please ignore my scatterbrain.