Today I am looking for a fresh start as we begin the working week full of optimism and high hopes. Last week was not the best for me, for various reasons. My pet turtle died, and I am grieving for him.
Losing a Family Pet
It is very different for me losing a turtle, to losing a dog. I have been processing my feelings over the weekend. I am sad, but I havenāt cried anywhere near as much as I did when my beloved Toby died. I suppose it is because the turtles are sort of distant. They live in a tank, they donāt speak, and they donāt like to be handled. They still communicate, however, in their own little way, and for that I will miss Duck (I also had a turtle called Crispin once upon a time ā can you see the joke?!).
What cheered me up was the outpouring of support from my friends on Instagram when I posted a photo at the weekend. We all make connections to our pets, whatever species, and we all recognise that special bond when we lose the pet. I still have one more turtle remaining, Ashton, although he really does not like to be handled and would rather be left alone. Letās hope he stays around for a while longer. Have a happy week, my friends. Make it a good one!
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SpookyMrsGreen 
I’m so sorry to hear of the death of your turtle, Catheirne. You are right, every one of our pets have a significant impact on our lives and we mourn them when we die. I remember how I felt at each time one of my pets died; whether budgie, rabbit, cat or dog. I wrote a poem for a dead mouse once!
Thank you, Sheila. Yes, they find a way into our hearts, that’s for sure!
Can completely relate, having recently lost a beloved cat after many years – my office and desk are so empty without him.
I’m sorry for your loss, Caron. Yes, my turtles have always been watchful companions since I usually sit at the table near to their tank when I write.
Sorry to hear about that, Mrs G. We don’t keep pets at the moment, but I know how much a part of life they can become. I get very angry when I read about animals being maltreated.
Thank you, Mike. Yes, I would happily adopt all the unwanted Staffies in England if I had the resources to care for them! My turtles came to me by accident when they were left homeless at the company where I used to work š