Australia Trusted Brands 2024

Good Pet. Better Friend GEORGENE A. When I first got my turtle, Nicky, I was ten years old, and she was about the size of a coin. We’ve grown together (I’m now 80 and she weighs 2.5 kg), and she’s been my best friend through it all. Nicky lives in our backyard pond in the summer, and has her own room and filtered kiddie pool in the winter. She’s also quite social and curious. As the star of ‘Show And Tell’ for four kids and eight grandchildren, she cranes her neck out of her shell to get a good look at her fans. Nicky loves munching on the tomatoes and pretzels the neighbourhood kids feed her, and she’s even gutsy enough to steal a mouthful of dog food. On her 50th birthday (these turtles typically live 50 years or more), we threw her a party, complete with a gift any turtle would die for: her own in-ground pond. She is a good pet and a better friend. She keeps all my secrets. Nicky was in my lap the day after my wedding and each time we moved home. I hope she’ll be there till the very end. ILLUSTRATION: GETTY IMAGES SMART ANIMALS Do more than simply provide companionship 2 June/July 2024