Norbu 7/05 - 5/10/08

[mandycoot]

It is with great sadness that I have to write that I helped my beloved Norbu to the bridge today, after battling a cruel PT for the last few months.

I didn't connect with Norbu right away. Their Petfinder profile caught my eye because his cagemate was a lovely Siamese, and I fell in love with Pabu. Not in a position to "need" more rats, I watched their profile for a month or so before calling the shelter, "Just to check" if there had been any interest in them. Of course, there had not! and the shelter worker went on about how worried they were that these boys would not get a good home. Of course, right then I said I'd be up to pick them up the next weekend.

Norbu was plain, with a crummy rex coat, and quite the shy guy. He didn't immediately strike me as the kind of rat you could grow to be so incredibly attached to. But like the human idiots we are, I was so very wrong! He was the sweetest of men, and always a little goofy (his natural personality or the result of an ear infection that left him with a permanent head tilt?!). I love him so much, and I can't help but be furious at the world that his last months were ones of confusion and hardship.

My sweet boy, I'll miss you so much. I know Pabu will too. Enjoy your new body and renewed mind.

November 2007


Sweet omega rat -- he was always grooming the others!


Pabu on top. Those two squealed like such little girls!

[slynx]

The grooming pics made me squeal a little too.  His expression in them reminds me of my Sebastian man, who was also happiest being bossed around (and was also a plain, shy guy on the outside, and a loving, kind, and true friend within).

I'm sorry that Norbu got sick, and for your sadness.  PTs are awful, and devastating for ratties and humans alike, and I hate them so much.  Hugs to you, and to Pabu on the loss of his friend.

[fuzzybee]

What a sad time you're having.  I'm so sorry you had to say goodbye to Norbu, but how lovely that you kept checking the shelter, and had the chance to get to know him so well.  It's a sad fact that we humans are often ready to judge by appearances, even when it comes to rats.  Of course, I've done it too.  But the fact that you could connect with him so strongly and love the little person that he was is what counts.  I hope you and Pabu can comfort each other. 

[TheChicagoCrew]

Aww he looks like such a sweet little man. Reminds me of one of my first two boys, a black hooded I named Ty-Ty. Soooo sweet! It is amazing that he lived to be nearly three, but I am so sorry he had such a difficult time getting there. I am glad that he and Pabu found their way to you. What sweet special boys.

-Melina

[JR1030]

Oh, I'm so sorry.  I hate PT's, too.  Rotten things.  At least Norbu is whole and happy at the bridge. 

[wonderrodent]

Mandy, I am so sorry that you lost Norbu  .
You are wonderful for giving him and Pabu such a great home! It was meant to be.

Sweet Norbu is free of all the pain now.

BIG (((HUGS)))