Albert

This is such a difficult goodbye, my sweet Albert ("Bert-Bert"). You were there for me and helped heal my heart when we lost Harold, and I will always be so grateful to you for being there. We got off to a rocky start, because you were wary and a biter and nothing at all like my Harold who loved to snuggle and be held, but in time we grew to understand and appreciate one another, and eventually you tolerated being held and no longer nipped me. It was a journey, and I learned so much from you about patience and accepting others “where they are.”

You were so very special to me, and always will be. You liked to “talk” and ask for treats. Whenever I made a little kissing sound, you would run up to me and pose for a head rub. I loved that, especially late at night when I was working on my computer nearby. You were always right there.

Your start in life was hard---you were living beneath a house, amid stray cats and other animals. The moment I saw your picture in an ad from your owners, though, I knew you were destined to be here with us. I knew it with all of my heart. And so it was, as you were rescued by a friend of a friend and sent to the guinea pig rescue near us where you awaited your new forever home with us here. It was a long road trip, but you made it. I'll never forget the phone call from the lady who rescued you, “I think it's a female.” My heart sank but somehow, I knew that couldn't be right. You were being sent to me from Harold, and I knew it. And sure enough, the lady was wrong; you were indeed a male, and your place here with us was thus secured. You arrived here, in your forever home, a short time later.

You were so handsome, your beautiful fur and bright, mischievous eyes. And of course, that loud “wheek!” of yours whenever the opportunity for a snack or treat presented itself. I can see you in my mind's eye, trotting along your enclosure, excited whenever food or attention was involved.

Over time, you turned out to be so friendly and loved attention. People visiting us would be drawn to your enclosure, and you always allowed them to pet you and talk to you, as you did your funny little “Happy dance." Other than the days when you had tummy trouble, I don't think you ever had a bad day in your life. You were happy, inquisitive, busy, and full of love.

I miss you, my dear little friend, and always will. You were such a bright light during a dark time in my life, and that light will always shine brightly within my heart. Forever my little “Bert-Bert." - Your loving 'cavy slave' & mom