This One Was Different

[Optimist]

The Amarillo Armadillo passed away this morning while I was at school. It's just hit me. Okay. He was a rat.

Most of the time, rats really could care less about you. You are the big hand that brings them food.

This one made eye contact. He would bounce in joy over to see me. He would snuggle up. He would check on me. He watched me. Of all the rats I've had. He was the special one.

I heard a little squeek this morning and didn't bother to look. I was rushed for school. I had forgotten about some homework. When I got back from school, he was dead.

Last night, he reached his two little paws out wanting me to pick him up. I was busy. I wish I had.

I knew when I bought them that rats were lucky if they made it past two years. Owning any creature with such a short lifespan is a real emotional test.

Sorry if this is too personal.

In better days...

[desertanimal]

Sorry for your loss. Rats are good little social mammals.

[WhiteRabbit]

I'm so sorry *hugs* They really are very smart, social critters. I love them! We had a couple when I was a small child - they left a very good impression on me
But, yeah, that short life expectancy is rough

[wintergirl]

Sorry about the loss of your friend.

[Leafmite]

I am sorry, too.
Losing a pet is never easy.

[Cntry]

So sorry that you lost your pet. They bring us so much joy and bring us heart ache as well when we lose them. Your pet will always be close by in your heart. ((( Hugs )))

[judith_arquette]

Sorry to hear about the loss of your dear companion. I hope you can take some comfort in knowing that you gave him a wonderful life while you could. My deepest condolences <3

[Subrosa]

I know precisely how you feel. Other than birds, no other animal I've kept formed as deep an attachment with me as a rat I had 20 years ago. But the heartbreakingly short lifespan is a deal breaker. Never again.

[bethmarie]

My heart goes out to you and to the Amarillo Armadillo. I hope he is loving a heaven made specially for him.

[katrina]

Awwwww...I'm so sorry about your loss.

I've never had a rat but have heard they are wonderful little personalities. Armadillo was very cute. Our pets really are part of the family and it sure breaks our hearts when their time is up...I feel for you.