Team Talk
The Cutting Edge
by Mariette
S-H-A-T-T-E-R-E-D and BROKEN
I always feel so blessed when I wake up in the morning, knowing that I will get yet another
opportunity to spend my day with animals in my care. Animals usually seen in such a negative light –
just the mere mention of the word “reptile” and people tend to shy away or lace words with hatred
towards them.
I am privileged in so many ways. The mere joy of being able to care for them like a mother would
care for her child. Feeding them, cleaning up their mess (yes, sometimes they are worse than
teenagers!) and providing medical care for them as and when required, amongst so many other
things. Getting to know each individual reptile on a personal basis. Their likes and yes, even their
dislikes.
This career sure has its rewards! The mere satisfaction knowing that you could let an animal flourish
and live the best days of its life, is such a great feeling. Reptiles cared for in a well maintained
environment will live much longer than their wild counterparts as they don’t have any natural
predators they need to fight off. Medical care is provided as and when needed. Food is served
regularly without them having to use their precious energy reserves to hunt for it. They also have all
of their heating requirements met and are safe from facing the harsh natural elements outside.
However with the sweetness also comes the bitter. And this usually happens when least expected.
Saying goodbye to an animal that has crept so deep in to your heart is never easy. It takes it toll on
an emotional level. It breaks you, it shatters you … leaving a huge hole in your heart.
I was forced to face this bitter part when “Didi” a red-tailed boa, passed away recently. Lying gently
in my arms, we had our final time together, saying our last goodbyes. She trusted me to be with her
in her final minutes.
I have no idea how old she was as she was donated to the Park a number of years ago. She never
displayed any signs of illness. She was an avid feeder and loved being interacted with. She was such
a gentle giant of a boa. She enjoyed giving tight hugs – she was a constrictor after all!
But the harsh reality is that when the time arrives there is nothing, absolutely nothing you can do to
stop the process.
Once she was gone, looking in to her eyes and seeing all signs of life gone forever. Facing her empty
enclosure each day and remembering the precious soul that shared memorable years with you.
I once read this quote and it is so true:
“When I look in to the eyes of an animal I do not see an animal. I see a living being. I see a friend. I
feel a soul. (Anthony Douglas Williams)
Isaiah 26:3
"The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, Because he trusts in You.”
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