u/Icy-Buy1210

My sweet little Pepe Le Pew passed away this morning after a battle with an ear infection. He was 2.5 years old and always on the smaller side, so I suspect his little body just gave out. I loved this gerbil so very much, and he got me through my last semester of university. I graduate in June and I will remember him at the ceremony. He is survived by his brother Speedy, who I feel deeply for.

I’m going to quarantine Speedy for a bit and let him grieve, but once he’s in the clear, I’ll be finding him a buddy. He’s 2.5 years also but in good health. I’m not sure how to go about finding just 1 male gerbil though, as my local pet stores only sell them in pairs. I’m in the Vancouver, BC area so any advice on how to proceed is welcome.

I love you Pepe, sleep tight 🖤

I am booking a vet appointment asap. Need care advice in the meantime.

I was away for a few days and returned this evening. 20 minutes ago my gerbil Pepe emerged from his bed and I found his ear was stuck down. I wiped it with warm cotton pad and it produced a smelly discharge.

My gerbil-sitter is attentive and diligent. She did not notice any signs of a sore ear. I can assume this developed in the last 24 hours while she was sleeping/working.

I will call every vet in the area tomorrow morning to get him in ASAP. I am wondering what I can do tonight to help. I have not gotten his ear unstuck because I am worried about hurting him or stressing him out further. He is hiding again but when he came out he was eating and running on his wheel. I can tell he is sleepier than usual as he’s not out while his brother is.

Can’t take a picture but his ear is essentially folded forward and I can see some dried discharge. His affected eye is a little squinty and when he was out I saw him scratch it. I’m not sure if his age as he was rescued but I assume about 2 years.

Please reply with advice, and keep Pepe in your thoughts tonight 💔

In memoriam

Ear infection help