Today was a very sad day for me. Our 13 year old budgie, Jesse James passed away. He had been acting very quiet and sleepy for the past three days and wasn't eating or drinking much. Every hour I would reach into his cage and hold food and water up for him and he would take a bit, then go back to sleep. It was so unlike him, as for 13 years he was chirpy, happy, active, cheerful and affectionate every waking moment.
I had contacted an avian veterinarian, but she said that 13 was very old for a budgie and if I tried to bring him into the clinic for a checkup the stress would be too much for him. So I followed her instructions, lowered his perches, placed folded up towels in the bottom of his cage (in case he fell), kept him warm and quiet, and tried to keep him as comfortable as possible. This morning he was quieter than ever. I took a few photos of him, knowing in my heart the end was near.
Late this afternoon I was in the kitchen and happened to be watching Jesse as he slept with his head tucked under his wing, when he suddenly just stretched his wings straight out from his body, then slowly, slowly, slowly toppled off his perch and landed softly on the towels. Within a few seconds he stopped breathing. I think his heart finally gave out. I burst into tears, but was very grateful that the end was quick for him. Poor old Jesse. I loved him dearly and will miss him terribly.
I used
Word Art World by Jennifer's June Facebook exclusive, "Memories" kit to make this page for Jesse.
