Old Age Death

[guidofatherof5]

I have a rather large group of male T.radixes. Many are captive bred and born but a few are wild caught. One of my wild caught males is dieing. I believe it an old age situation. I knew he was old(by wild standards) when I found him. He's been a lot of fun to have around as he was a sort of leader in the enclosure. The last 2 days he's been laying outside the hide and also has refused food. He's starting to get that triangle body shape with a sunken belly. He's also losing weight. I've seen this before in my elderly snakes. I feel so helpless at this point as there is nothing I can do. In most cases they pass quickly and quietly.
I know when I take these older snakes in I'm going to have to deal with this but I never think about it at the time.
I hope the old boy doesn't suffer.

[Snakers]

You gave him the best live any radix could dream of.

[kibakiba]

I agree with Nolan, I think any snake would love living with you. He's probably very happy that he was able to live with such a wonderful person Hopefully he'll go quickly with no suffering. sorry about whats happening Steve but at least you can live knowing you gave him the best life he could have ever had.

[justme]

You have such a kind heart Steve. Perhaps euthanization from your well trusted doctor may be an option if he appears to suffer unnecessarily? I am sure he will pass away naturally and his memories with you on the ranch.., well cherished.

[ConcinusMan]

I know how you feel. Watched it happen first with my old male (18)and a few years later with the female.(21) At least it's a natural end to his life. All of us, and all critters great and small face that day eventually. It's sad to see him go, but it's really just as natural as birth.

[guidofatherof5]

He passed during the night.
R.I.P. old man.

[Selkielass]

I'm glad he went peacefully- You can't ask for better for an aged pet.
You've posted previously about having to put down animals- I don't know what method you use, but the method outlined on this page looks like a simple humane option that wouldn't stress out an animal used to feeding in a separate plastic enclosure.
Small Animal Euthanasia at Home

[kibakiba]

I'm glad it was peacefully sad thing to wake up to though.

[Spankenstyne]

Sorry to hear that Steve. No matter how many years go by or times we have to deal with it, it's always a bummer.
On the positive side he won the snake lottery for the wonderful home he had for his "golden years".

[infernalis]

He passed during the night.
R.I.P. old man.

Slither on old one, Slither on..................