Matarilevich:  I don't know if this will make much sense, but I had a pet rat named Ann.  I taught kindergarten at the time and the kids loved playing with her.  She's sit on my shoulder and never messed when we held her.  She was the first pet rat I'd ever had.  I had many other pet rats after she died but not one could replace her.  There was something special about her.  It's been many years since she died and I still think of her.  Perhaps it was special because she was our class pet too.  But she was so loving.  I can't believe I'm saying that about a rat but it's true.  I'm saddened for you and your loss.  I wish our pets could live longer.   Take Care.  ;)