Yesterday, life dealt a significant blow to our little family when we discovered that our chinchilla, Zippy, had died. In age, he was the middle of the three roommates. Dusty, the oldest, is the calm and intelligent type; the youngest, Noodle, can be quite crazy at times. Zippy occupied the personality space in between.

The three made the perfect trio of rodent companions. Even if they all looked identical, you could always tell them apart by their mannerisms. Curious, excited, and sometimes seemingly narcoleptic, Zippy would come to meet you without fail when you entered his room, and never passed up the opportunity to play.

Our strange family has shared many fond memories with you: lounging in bed, chewing on things we shouldn't have, chasing each other around the room, and destroying old apartments. Things simply won't be the same without you around, especially for your fellow roommates. We know they are going to need some time to adjust to life without you.

We hope you led a fulfilling life, as much, or more than you enriched ours. We already miss you, Zippy. We will continue to remember you until our own days are depleted.