Sometimes those what-if scenarios are frightening! I still let Cleo onto the patio (even though it's a no-go for the guinea pigs), but we also have hawks in our area. If I've seen them recently, I try to make a note and then I won't let her out unless I've gone a month or two without seeing them. Just in case. (I'd never forgive myself if one of them swooped down and nabbed her.)Stray cats were my biggest fear for a while. At one point the top of Ruby's habitat had the screen cut out for better uvb. We have a small dog and both work so we installed a doggie door so he can let himself out. My back yard has a 6 foot block wall all the way around so Scooby can get out. (He is much to fat to fit through the gate ) but the stray cats can fit through it. I was terrified one would get in through the doggie door and find it's way into Ruby's habitat. Enough so that I replaced the screen and mounted the uvb underneath.
Christina now works from home so it isn't an issue, but I still won't do open tops just in case.
I can relate, Sinatra is down right now, and even though I've got the girls, I still miss him like crazy.Sometimes those what-if scenarios are frightening! I still let Cleo onto the patio (even though it's a no-go for the guinea pigs), but we also have hawks in our area. If I've seen them recently, I try to make a note and then I won't let her out unless I've gone a month or two without seeing them. Just in case. (I'd never forgive myself if one of them swooped down and nabbed her.)
Anyway, she was basking last night, and getting back to normal. (Pics here - I wasn't thinking and cleared my phone already after posting.) She looks like she could use some water, and I made sure her bowl was full. I'll spray her salad down today, just to play it safe. I'm just happy to have her back in sight, now.