Sudden Death of my Willow..

[graviee]

I was definitely hoping I would never ever have to make one of these threads, but unfortunately today the world lost a precious baby.
I found Willow passed away on her side away from her normal sleeping spot tonight as I went to feed the girls their nightly veggies. For the safety of Lucy, her cagemate, (and closure for me) I just wanted to see what everyone thought the cause of death could have been. Willow was completely fine yesterday, which makes me uneasy for my Lucy.
I knew I needed to look for a few symptoms for Lucy’s sake, so I checked Willow over. She had brownish liquid coming out of her nose and mouth, a white discharge around her eyes. Everything else seemed normal to me. It’s crazy how quickly things can go downhill.

I adopted these girls in August and they were “around three years old” according to the shelter. Their previous owner had not fed them a proper diet nor caged them correctly, but I don’t think this could have affected them while in my care. I obviously don’t know why she died, so I’ve disinfected the cage (vinegar and water) and changed all fleeces and beds. (Even though if Lucy is going to get it, it’s probably too late)

Thank you all in advance for your help-

 

[Piggies&buns]

I am sorry for your loss.
Unfortunately we cannot know what caused death but sudden strokes, heart attacks etc do happen. The best thing if you are concerned for Lucy would be to take her to the vet for a check up. Best wishes

 

[VickiA]

I’m so sorry for your loss. We would just be speculating really. It with rescue piggies you never really know their correct age or background and piggies are masters of disguise - they can be hiding a multitude of issues that may not be visible. Perhaps it would be a good idea to get Lucy vet checked. Hugs x

 

[artcasper]

Aww so sorry for your loss.. must have been a huge shock for you.. x

 

[Ritika]

I am sorry for your loss popcorn free willow❤

 

[Bill & Ted]

I am so sorry for your loss, sending you a hug at this sad time x
Sleep tight Willow x

 

[LucyP]

So sorry to hear about willow, that’s awful for you. Look after yourself.

 

[Flutterby]

I'm so sorry for your loss xx

 

[Wiebke]

I was definitely hoping I would never ever have to make one of these threads, but unfortunately today the world lost a precious baby.
I found Willow passed away on her side away from her normal sleeping spot tonight as I went to feed the girls their nightly veggies. For the safety of Lucy, her cagemate, (and closure for me) I just wanted to see what everyone thought the cause of death could have been. Willow was completely fine yesterday, which makes me uneasy for my Lucy.
I knew I needed to look for a few symptoms for Lucy’s sake, so I checked Willow over. She had brownish liquid coming out of her nose and mouth, a white discharge around her eyes. Everything else seemed normal to me. It’s crazy how quickly things can go downhill.

I adopted these girls in August and they were “around three years old” according to the shelter. Their previous owner had not fed them a proper diet nor caged them correctly, but I don’t think this could have affected them while in my care. I obviously don’t know why she died, so I’ve disinfected the cage (vinegar and water) and changed all fleeces and beds. (Even though if Lucy is going to get it, it’s probably too late)

Thank you all in advance for your help-

Hi!

HUGS

A sudden death out of the blue always comes as such a shock and leaves you with so many unanswered questions.

Keep in mind that piggies don't sleep through the night; they have periods where they are up and browsing/drinking quietly. It can also be that Willow has been suddenly feeling unwell before being felled by a sudden devastating stroke or heart attacks. As upsetting as this is for you, try to take comfort that she cannot have suffered long and has had one of the better deaths when it comes to the sharp end.
There is no risk of contagion if there haven't been any noticeably symptoms of illness in the day/days before.

Sadly we can never choose when and what from our beloved pets die. We only have them on loan and cancellation without notice... All we can give them is a happy and good life and to treasure every day with them as if it was the last. It is not the lenght of life, but the quality of it that counts!

You may find these two links here helpful, both for Lucy and for yourself as you both grapple with what has happened in the coming days and weeks:
Looking After a Bereaved Guinea Pig
Human Bereavement: Grieving, Coping and Support Links for Guinea Pig Owners and Their Children

 

[Abirose]

I am so sorry for your loss x
Rest in peace Willow

 

[Merab]

So sorry for your loss.
Be gentle with yourself as you grieve