Tilly G, the tortoise in question, transitioned from being a pampered only child with a passion for landscaping in her Los Angeles garden to suddenly becoming an older sibling.
Can a self-absorbed tortoise embrace a new family member, especially one from a different species?
Or will he continue being the obstinate tortoise with an eccentric flair for garden decor?
An Unlikely Friendship Developed

Tortoises are naturally quite territorial. After all, they are wild creatures, and you know how they can be about their space.
When Karen took Tilly G into her home, she was aware of the responsibilities: special treats for tortoises, unique care routines compared to other pets, and learning Tilly’s behaviors, among many others.
Moreover, an injured tortoise from the Humane Society with a cracked shell required additional care. Karen was prepared to mend Tilly’s wounds and guide him as he grew from a small shelled infant to a grand tortoise.
However, Karen was unaware that Tilly had a rather peculiar habit—an obsession that evolved over time—of remodeling her backyard!
Karen proudly introduced Tilly G to her garden, but Tilly had other ideas in mind. Before long, the tortoise began shuffling and repositioning items all over the place.
If you visit Karen and notice a patio chair moving by itself, don’t be alarmed—it’s just Tilly G.
“He’s a redecorating whiz. He insists on having things his way,” Karen shared with The Dodo.
Tilly G had created his ideal little haven. Then, something unexpected disrupted his tranquility: a puppy!
Upon adopting Skippy the puppy, Karen sincerely hoped for a harmonious relationship between them.
Expecting a chaotic introduction, Karen proceeded cautiously. But to her relief, Tilly did not hiss or show aggression towards the newcomer. The baby brother Skippy was readily embraced into Tilly’s territory, also known as the garden.
A gentle sniff or a soft kiss here and there, and soon Tilly and Skippy became inseparable friends!
Before long, Tilly and Skippy began sharing their favorite things. Tilly was happy to pass along delectable treats to Skippy. A slice of watermelon was divided, and they showcased their toys to one another.

From the start, Skippy brought toys to Tilly. He generously shared his treasured possessions with his newfound best buddy.
As soon as he opens his eyes, Skippy rushes outside to greet Tilly. And if Skippy happens to be late, Tilly patiently waits by the back door.
“They’ve grown up together, and their bond has only strengthened over time,”
Tilly and Skippy have an undeniable love for one another; it was love at first sight, the purest kind of affection.
The lovable, unconventional duo coexists with five adorable cats and three additional dogs, forming one big happy family in Los Angeles, which you can follow on Instagram.
While Tilly may be slow in movement, the speed with which he fell for Skippy and the rest of the fluffy companions is remarkable!
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