The power of friendship

Shrimp had the veterinary staff at the hospital convinced that it was "time" more than once, and more than once she rebounded. The other day, Suzanne rushed down to be with her after receiving a call from the doctors that it was probably time to consider euthanasia. Shrimp had other ideas. She was clearly still in the game, and when Suzanne saw her, the strength of Shrimp's spirit and presence removed all question. She would be allowed to battle on.

Donkey experts assert that donkeys generally don't fare too well in the hospital. They are so bonded to and lost without their companions, they get depressed and pine away. So, in an effort to assist Shrimp in her fight to recover, one of the horses she lives with was trailered down to join her in her stall. When he was brought in and saw Shrimp, Eagle nickered his greeting. At first Shrimp didn't seem to realize who it was, but I'm told that the look on her face when she recognized him was wonderful to see.

So, as we continue to surround Shrimp with prayers and energy and hope, Eagle is simply providing her with his presence, and his solid steadiness, and his love. May this be the magic elixir that was missing from her treatment.

It is hoped that Eagle's presence will encourage Shrimp to drink and eat more on her own. Once she's been eating and drinking on her own for a day or so, she'll be allowed to go home. That's what we all want for you, Shrimp, that you can go home and be with Joey and Eagle and Spot and Freaky again, and stand each evening and watch the sun go down.