But along with the responsibility is the possibility of an incomparably love and a long-lasting bond.

At the time, he was about the size of a strawberry and could easily fit in her palm.

However, with love and care, the African tortoise grew immensely, finally reaching a healthy 175 pounds.

The pair have been inseparable through all of the ups and downs in Doran’s life.

I had a difficult childhood.

My parents did the best they could with what they knew.

But some big signs were missed, Doransays.

I felt like nobody could hear me, but Tiptoe was always here.

The animal lover affirms, I love my animals.

I got them all at significant times in my life when I needed a friend.

Tiptoe helped Doran through her mom’s cancer diagnosis, and coping with the pressures of adulthood.

Just before COVID-19, Doran quit her job.

It was during this time that she began sharing videos of Tiptoe on social media.

I focused all my energy on my animals.

Something about him brings my mind to a hault.

We go on walks, spend time in the sun and eat healthy food.

He helps me slow down and smell the roses.

In these videos, Doran highlights what a tortoise lifestyle is like.

Doran’s most viewed content, however, features the yummy and colorful food she feeds Tiptoe.

This ranges from a simple flower or a piece of cactus to a platter of fresh fruits and veggies.

Whatever is on the menu, Tiptoe always looks delighted with his snacks.

A woman from Los Angeles named Caitlin Doran has been friends with a tortoise for 22 years.

Doran received the African tortoise as a Christmas present when she was 7 years old.

She named him Tiptoe, and he has been a constant companion ever since.

He weighs 175 pounds, enjoys long walks around Doran’s neighborhood, and likes making friends.