Hello My Friends,
I apologize for the late update last week. I actually posted the blog but forgot to send the email letting you all know it was posted. Like I said I'm figuring this out as I go, hopefully I don't make that mistake again. It's the 4th tomorrow so neither Jen or myself will be in the office, that's why this is a day early. This is going to be a not happy update so prepare yourself. I will ease into that news though so let's get to the fluffy stuff first.
· The old barn sheep & goats have all moved into the NARN. It is really cool to see that yard alive again. So many critters all over the place. If you're cleaning NARN check with the caregiver but the end 2 stalls by the doors are joined just like it was in old barn, so it's one large super stall. A lot more work down there but it's so much better. For the new Ruminants volunteers that haven't had a full house before, just get done what you can get done in your shift. The speed will come and don't stress about not finishing. We are very grateful for whatever help you can give us.
· Enrichment Volunteer's, that metal table in the enrichment room on wheels, could we not store it against the wall by the computer stand. The door that opens to the barn hits the table and will eventually damage the door. Also, the computer should be up and running next week, there will be more to come on that and instructions on how to navigate the program. Its an Excel sheet that you just have to fill in the blanks. Jen created it and will help everyone learn how to use it.
· I don't like giving non-farm updates, but this might impact you. For those of you that walk by Kitty City you'll notice the solo catio has signs for quarantine. Lilo has ringworm please do not try and pet her it is contagious and does transfer to people.
· I think that's all the updates, or at least all my mind will let me recall with this news hanging over my head. It's never easy talking end of life, we can get so attached to some of our animal friends in such a short time. I am extremely sorry to let you all know that our big guy Otis is approaching the end of his life. As I stated in my last blog post the Vet came out and told us his pain is from severe arthritis in his leg and spine. He will never get better and the only thing we can do is heavily drug him. We have had serious, hard conversations about his quality of life and what to do. In his short time here, we have all grown to love him dearly. Understand that this wasn't an easy decision but one that had to be made. We make a promise to all the animals that come here not to let them suffer anymore and make them feel loved. We gave Otis love but we can't help his pain or ever will be able to. There will be a small celebration for him next Wednesday, all are more than welcome to come by. I will attach the email that Alayna wrote that explains the details a bit better.
Hi Everyone,
I am not sure all of you are aware, but Otis Pig was seen last week by his vet. His diagnosis was that he has severe arthritis in his spine, legs, and possibly hips. The prognosis is that his condition may stay the same and eventually worsen, but there is no cure/reversal. Due to this, we believe that his quality of life is not adequate long term in his current state. This was not the news we were hoping for. Because of this new information, we will be saying goodbye to Otis next Thursday 7/10.
We would like to throw him a big party next Wednesday, 7/9. I encourage everyone to stop by, tell him what a special boy he is, and maybe toss him some of his favorite treats. We will ask people to still not go into his yard and do this all over the fence. Brandie will be hanging around his yard off and on throughout the day, so find her if you want her to deliver something special to him.
The party will be from 1-2pm on Wednesday. He LOVES watermelon, but other treats will be welcomed.
I ask everyone during this time to PLEASE give space, compassion, and kindness to our caregivers. If you have any concerns, questions, or comments, please direct them to me.
Thank you all for your love and support of Otis.
Alayna
Herring
Sanctuary Director
If you have any further questions, please reach out to Jen or myself. I am sorry that none of you got the chance to get up close to him. He is a very sweet pig and would have been such an amazing addition to our family. It's sad the hand he was dealt in this life. I guess in the end there is comfort that for his final few months he was showered with love and attention.
Thank you all for your time and effort and mostly for the love and compassion you bring here every day. You are all appreciated more than you know.
However you chose to celebrate the 4th be safe and have fun. Enjoy your weekend and week ahead. I look forward to seeing you all out here hopefully soon.
Stay Amazing!
Shane Greenfield
Volunteer Coordinator / shaneg@pasadosafehaven.org
