First, I want to say thank you for all your kind comments and support in my last posting about Scout.  I appreciated all your advice concerning the "replacement" idea and the problem we face with Scout having cancer.  I took all your words to heart and prayed...

Our decision is made.  I decided to talk with my son.  Yes, we've talked about Scout and the death that awaits him...  watching him closely as he leaves ooze around his cage and wheel.  Scout seems to be energetic and hungry, but his tumors are still visible and slowly taking over his belly.  As I mentioned, my son has stopped picking him up or playing with him (understandably).  I occasionally put him in his wheel and change his cage (washing my hands thoroughly afterwards) regularly; however, my son is slowly distancing himself from the critter.  So, we had the "hard" talk.  You know, the one about what should we do with Scout.

I gave my son two options.  One to keep Scout and take the best care of him as possible until he dies.  Making sure that he understands that it could take week or maybe months, but that we would support him.   Then, I gave him the option two...  (a way out) the option to return Scout to the pet store and ask them (our owner friend) to take care of Scout while he is sick and then replace Scout with a healthy hamster.   With this option, I had to make sure that he understands that Scout would not be returning home once we left him - it would be a final good-bye.  Also, I made sure to let my son know that there is a possibility that if he choose option two, our new hamster might develop cancer, too (I realized this after hearing from all of you - it's just something that happens).  So, I gave him three days to think and pray about it...  not mentioning it at all in conversation or anything - just giving him time to think. 

Then, today I went into his room and sat down with him and talked about what he wanted to do.  He was quick to respond...  He decided on option two. I supported him and knew this was a hard decision for him to make.  When I asked him if he would like for me take care of things while he was away at camp, he said "No, I want to be there with Scout and say good-bye."  It broke my heart!!!   So, that is what we will do... 

In the past, we have nursed fish, frogs, and other animals through death.  It's a lesson we have dealt with often.  Waiting on Scout to die is not something I feel I need to make my son "experience" again.  He knows all about death and pain.  He knows the risk of loving something and then watching it die...  I honestly believe that he has made a mature decision regarding Scout.  Thankfully, Scout is only a hamster and he has the choice to "exchange" him.  We adults don't always get that choice...  

I will keep you updated on the progress...   I know this is only a hamster, but it seems so much more. Lots is being learned!!!   Thanks again for you kind words.