Maria and I noticed that Susie, who is 13 years old and the mother of Liam or late Wether, was not with the rest of the sheep; she was way back in the pasture, sitting by herself. I think she went up there to die, but we interrupted her.
. The sheep and donkeys were all staring at her, looking uneasy. Maria went down to sit with her and walk her back to the pole barn, and she came up the hill slowly and painfully.
She has trouble getting up and is increasingly disoriented and by herself, which is what sheep and other animals do when they are dying. We will give her every opportunity to die naturally; if there is any sign that she is suffering, we will put her down. If any amateur vets consider diagnosing her from the photos, do all of us a favor and skip it. We have a great vet if we need one.
It was touching to see Merricat walk down and touch noses with her. Zip also walked out into the pasture with me and sat and looked; that was touching, too. He was very quiet and unusually serious. Maria favors natural deaths if possible, and I do, too. I used to shoot them for fear they were suffering; I’d rather not do that.
We’ll keep an eye on her.
Merricat is saying goodbye.
Maria walked up to the pole barn with Susie behind her. Zip joined in the walk. That cat never ceases to surprise me.
I’m sorry to hear this, but Susie has enjoyed a good long life. My hope (and likely yours too) is that she passes quietly in the night as one of your last older sheep did recently. You and Maria will know if and when intervention is needed …….and again, I’m sorry to hear this. Safe and peaceful journey to Susie
Susan M
Oh man, life on a farm can be hard. Don’t get me wrong, I loved it while I lived it but there are times like these that break the heart.
Susan and Solveig said it perfectly, there is nothing meaningful more for me to add, except maybe to say I’m sending warm thoughts and empathy. I’m so, so sorry.
I spent most of my life on a ranch. We never let animals linger. It isn’t the cowboy way.
Would the Amish do that?
Ledge, I don’t do what you do or what the Amish do. I do what Maria and I choose to do, and I very much doubt the Amish would be a role model for giving animals a chance to die naturally. Most of our sick animals end up being euthanized, not that it’s your concern how we deal with the death of the animals we love. No thanks for your advice. Take good care of your animals however you wish; it’s not my business, and I would never presume to tell you what to do.
I will pray for a peaceful passing.
Zip is one special cat. Love hearing about him
So sorry to hear about Suzie! Sending calming energy to her and you and Maria. Growing up both sets of grandparents had farms. They also chose natural death for their animals when possible. Prayers for a peaceful transition for Suzie!
Thanks Kodi, she has been a calming presence..