News-Bad

Sometimes, it's the paragraphs you don't get to read that mean the most. The January 2nd post originally started with a paragraph about my fears that 2012 might be just as miserable as 2011 despite all the positive changes that are coming to town. It didn't take long. Yesterday, Jen Cummings, the NRT's Executive Director, had to put down her riding horse who she had owned for twenty years. Then when I went in to feed Bonnie and Edwin, I discovered that Bonnie is having trouble moving her back legs. There were signs she may have tripped coming out of her litter box. I feel terrible because I had just cleaned the boxes over the weekend, and they were at a low point in litter. It's never been a problem before, but Bonnie does have really big feet for her size. Amanda, one of the NRT teachers also works taking care of the animals in Wheaton College's Science Labs and the Animal Protection Society, checked her out but could find no major problems-perhaps a minor disk slippage. She doesn't seem to be in any pain, but rabbits are very good about hiding their hurts-it's a survival mechanism. Bonnie did let out a few of what passes for bunny growls when Amanda examined her. Haven't heard those in quite awhile; she used to growl at everyone when she first arrived here three years ago. Her appetite is good and the rear legs are not completely paralyzed so we brought in extra bedding hay for warmth and will contact the flying vet this morning. Here's a photo of Bonnie from yesterday:

Wish it was a little clearer. As always Edwin is nearby to look after his friend. One of the teachers called Bonnie a real sweetheart with the students-a big change from her days in the shelter. Let's hope she pulls through. On a happier note here's a picture of Simba the Ox and his friend Fauna the Goat.