First Pet Love

Pets are often our first experience of unconditional love. Was it a dog, cat, hamster, or even a goldfish? Reflect on your relationship with your first pet—or one that holds a special place in your heart.

I had to wait until my children were grown before I was able to have my first pet, a cat called Mollie. My parents, especially my dad, did not want animals in the house. I remember we somehow ended up with a duck in the back garden. Can't remember how but there it was, loud quacks and runny shit. I think my dad claiming to be the big man he was, was meant to kill it so we could eat it, but he never could and so it stayed a while.

My ex-husband didn't want a pet either and I went along with that - once that relationship was over and the kids had grown a little I decided it was a great time to get a cat. A couple of years later she ended up with my daughter and is still there.

Mollie is, as cats are, totally independent. You get cuddles only when she wants them. She appears only when hungry. The rest of the time she likes to be outside hunting.

Memory prompt: Write about a moment when your pet did something unforgettable. Was it funny, heart warming, or a little naughty?

Journal exercise:

• Describe your first meeting with your pet.

• Write a letter to a pet you’ve loved and lost.

• Imagine what your pet would say to you if they could talk—what would they think of your life today?