Lenny was found as a “stray” and brought to Hamilton Animal Services. This poor old guy was in really rough shape. He was very skinny, dirty and had trouble with his balance. Despite how he must have been feeling, he was a very friendly rat. He was definitely someone’s pet before being dumped outdoors.

The morning of his scheduled vet visit, Lenny’s foster family woke up to find him lethargic and struggling to walk. By the time he arrived at the vet clinic, it was clear Lenny was in cardiac distress. Because of his already frail condition and advanced age, there was nothing that could be done to help him, other than to let him go peacefully.

It’s easy to be angry with Lenny’s previous owners for abandoning him in his senior years – the time when warmth and familiarity of home are the most important. But, we take comfort that Lenny didn’t die alone outdoors, or at the shelter he came from. He was carried and cuddled, given lots of soft blankets to snuggle in, and many treats to snack on for the few short days he was with us.

Sleep well, sweet Lenny.  You were very much loved.