A Small Death in the Family

[jordanjm]

Tonight my wife went to play with our 2 Guinea Pigs, Caber and Toss. She looked in on them yesterday, and they were happy and healthy, no sign of trouble. No wounds, or indications of disease, but tonight Toss was found dead in the cage. My 2 year old has asked for Toss several times. She also calls them the Tosses. My wife is sad, and so am I a little. It is amazing what these little animals do for us. It seems that sometimes I do not even know until they are gone. How do you tell a 2 year old about life and death? If anyone has any suggestions I would not mind a PM (I do not want to break the forum rules).

[beloitpiper]

Explain to them what happened. No reason to hide it or make up elaborate stories. The earlier they understand death, the better. I think it is easier to start with a pet than it is a family member.

[Tattoo Bradley]

That is sad. We've got a couple of guinea pigs ourselves. So, I know how even those little guys kind create an attachment. I think Beloitpiper is right... it's easier to start with a pet than a family member.