Shiawase wheeled into the Magical Menagerie. She had never had a pet that was all hers before, and so she was excited . . . but hesitant, to pick one. Pets were a joy, but they were also a huge responsibility. She had to be sure she could take care of whichever animal she chose. Bearing all this in mind, she first looked at the owls. They were beautiful! And they'd be low-maintenance, like she wanted! But, she thought, could she really be happy with an animal she couldn't pet and snuggle? That she couldn't give belly rubs to?

Hmmm, maybe she wanted a dog. But that wasn't available here and besides, how could she possibly take care of one, especially in a castle? It wasn't a realistic idea. Okay, then. How about a cat? She wheeled over to the cats for a look. They were furry and cute and some of them even would let her give them belly rubs if they warmed to her! And they're not difficult to clean up after, either. But . . . would the cat she got feel lonely, in the castle? When Shiawase would have to leave it behind to go to class? And cleaning a litter box wouldn't be impossible but it would tricky in her wheelchair. She'd need it set up just right for her to reach it. The same would be true of the food and water dishes. Still, assuming she got it plenty of toys and made sure to give it lots of love when she could, she was sure she could combat the loneliness issue, and she was sure she could get everything set up correctly. It was a slight worry that the cat may decide to walk behind her wheelchair where she couldn't see it and might wheel into it, but she was sure one of her roommates would alert her if something like that were happening. So despite a couple reservations, she was ready to commit to a cat, but then, out of the corner of her eye, she saw an animal she'd never seen before. A cute, pink creature that seemed to be made almost entirely of fluff.

"Excuse me. What are those?" she asked the shop owners.

"That is a Pygmy Puff. Would you like a closer look?"

"Yes, please."

And so, Shiawase wheeled over to the pen. The shop owner picked up a pink Pygmy Puff and placed it onto her lap. Don't get sucked in, Shiawase. You don't know anything about these things. Sure, they're cute, but a cat is the smarter option. You know what goes into caring for a cat.

And the Pygmy Puff rolled over, showing Shiawase her little fluffy belly. Shiawase couldn't help it. She squee'd.

"Oh my goodness! You're so cute!" she declared as she picked up the Pygmy Puff and hugged it. And as she did, it let out a little squeak, which only made it all the more adorable!

"Is this the pet for you, then?" the owner asked. Shiawase blushed, a little embarrassed.

"Not so fast. Before I commit, I have a few questions." She took a deep breath. "How old is this little baby What do these things eat? How do I handle grooming them? Is there a magical vet I need to take them to when they get sick? Do they need toys? Do they use a litter box or cage or do they go outside? Are there any special treats I can give them? How do I keep this baby happy?!"

The shop owner patiently answered each of her questions, as well as her follow-up questions, and when Shiawase was certain she could take care of this Pygmy Puff, she adopted them.

Word Count: 620 words

What animal do you wish to purchase? Pink Pygmy Puff
What do you want to name it? Huffle
Is this a boy or a girl? Boy
What is your pet's date of birth? February, 14, 2022

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