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House Rabbit Society Richmond, CA | ||||||||||||||
| Adoption & Education Center | |||||||||||||||
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| Update: July 4, 2004
Tribute to Toby
July 4 was truly "independence day" for Hayward Rescue bunny, Toby. After two short but safe, secure and comfortable months in the care of his rescuer Karen Courtemanche, Toby succumbed to an as yet unkown illness and died in Karen's arms. Two other women who'd helped Hayward Animal Control remove Toby's siblings and cousins from the hell that was Bruno Street were also present. Toby was known as a gentle, sweet bunny. His mouth, ears, eyes and nose were badly scarred after years of fighting for food and territory. Toby was the eldest of the bunnies from Bruno Street, truly a survivor. In the few days preceding his death Toby gradually lost appetite and plans were in place to take him to Dr. Harvey on Monday to see if he had molar spurs. On Sunday, July 4, he was lethargic and not eating. He was given Critical Care via syringe and sub-q fluids. A volunteer was able to slowly feed him nearly two syringes of Critial Care around lunch time but he eventually stopped showing interest in the food. He could barely move his mouth and he grew weaker and weaker. After a consultation with Dr. Harvey on the phone it was determined he should be taken to an emergency vet, which we did. At the vet's we weren't given much hope, but it was hard to accept that this bunny was not going to get as much time being loved and cared for as he had spent being so poorly neglected. The image of the skeletons on the Bruno Street property came to mind: precious Toby would have ended that way too if Karen hadn't found the posting on Craig's List, gone to Bruno St, and taken Toby away that first visit. Toby died gently, with a final push forward, leaping into his new existence where he'll never have to fear the pain and suffering he endured for far too long. Toby, your bravery inspires us and we will never forget you. We will honor your memory by working hard to see that those who caused your pain, and ultimately your death, will be prosecuted to the fullest extent possible.~ Phyllis Tenney
Karen, I know there's not enough anyone could say to help you feel better right now about Toby's passing. I know, because I too have felt the loss and the pain you are feeling. And, I know it's something you just have to get through so that you can move on to help the other bunnies who still need you. However, please know that I am aware of all you have given and are giving to these precious creatures, and how much of yourself you gave to dear, sweet Toby. I thank you so much for that. I am very sad that I will never meet him, but I did learn to love him through your eyes, and through your descriptions of him to me, and your encouragement of me to give him a home. He had a home here, if he had only made it this far, but it just wasn't meant to be. He was needed elsewhere as a source of encouragement and love. Karen, thank you for being there with him when he passed. And, thank you for letting me know and keeping me in touch with what was going on. It was very considerate of you and I appreciate you including me in your communications about him. The only advice I can offer is that which has helped me bear the passing of a loved one; let the bunnies love you and comfort you. Bury your face in their fur and shed your tears. They will understand and they will show their quiet love and appreciation for all you do, and for what you mean to them. It will help you to feel better, and to move on. Which eventually you must do. Please, be at peace. You gave this wonderful boy all he deserved; your love and your tender care. And he is now at rest, awaiting those who loved him, at the Rainbow Bridge. ~ Judith Pierce
Dear Toby Though I didn't get to meet you
I'm so sorry for your loss and for all those who took such good care of him and loved him so much. I'm so glad I was able to take pictures of him on Saturday!! I think he must have known this was Independence Day and at long last he is truly free! No more memories of the pain and suffering...he is in a grand place with no worries or cares. I know he was so grateful that day Karen rescued him from the torture that was the only life he had ever known. In your sadness please remember that it was all of you who filled the last days of his life with love and even more...he was able to know what it is to be treated and to live with dignity and respect...though he only had a chance to know such love so late in his life I think it was the miracle he held on for and it was more than enough to happily help carry his soul to his next journey.... ~ Suzie Sakuma
Farewell, dear Toby. We'll see you at the Rainbow Bridge....
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