Accidentally killed a gerbil

[Belleangel22]

Hi, I work in a pet store and this morning I was cleaning the gerbil cages. As I was lifting the wire part of the cage the gerbil must have been sticking his head of out the cage and the cage part has landed on his neck and killed him. I did not notice. I cannot stop crying I feel so much guilt and I hate myself. How do I feel better I am so so upset and can’t stop picturing his face. Has something like this ever Happened to someone and how did you get over it?

I’m so sorry it’s happened. It was a horrible accident. It’s very sad but accidents sometimes happen. Have a break and try to busy yourself with something different to take your mind off it. And then later maybe think of a procedure which might stop it happening again? Take care though.

Don't hate yourself. It was an accident and the fact you're so upset and posted about this shows you care. I've had gerbils in the past and they get everywhere. I also know someone who's cat died in a freak accident. I won't go into detail but it was very upsetting and your feelings are valid. But remember, you were caring for them and it was not intentional.

Accidents happen. When I was about 11 I trod on, and killed a friends gerbil. It was awful. Try not to be too hard on yourself, you didn't do it deliberately or out of cruelty.

It was an accident, and of course anyone who cares (which not everyone does sadly) will be upset.

To redeem the situation, please make sure the Gerbil still has other Gerbils for company. They are incredibly social and will get depressed alone. Otherwise bond him a new partner using the split cage method