When a teacher was told therapy animals were visiting her school, she naturally assumed dogs would be involved. Instead, she was greeted by a much slower guest.
Jane (
@jane.evghenia
), a teacher from Toronto, shared now-viral footage of Banana the therapy tortoise making the rounds with a bright yellow balloon tied to his shell. The video has since racked up more than 293,800 likes and 1.1 million views on
TikTok
.
“They told us therapy animals were coming to our school and I thought that meant dogs, but instead we actually got this diva. I would die for Banana the
tortoise
,” Jane wrote in the text overlay on the video.
“I was literally obsessed,” she added in the caption.
As Banana ambled through the classroom, his yellow balloon—reading “Hey! I’m Banana!”—helped keep him visible (and possibly safe from being accidentally stepped on).
Animal-assisted therapy is known for its wide-ranging benefits in reducing stress, anxiety, and even physical pain. According to Psychology Today, therapy animals help improve emotional well-being and social functioning, particularly in settings like schools, hospitals, and nursing homes. While dogs are the most common therapy animals, research shows that the calming presence of other animals can also promote healing and comfort.
And yes, tortoises are on that list. The Service Animal Registry of California notes that
tortoises
can qualify as emotional support animals. While they’re not as cuddly or responsive as dogs or cats, their slow movements and quiet demeanor can provide a soothing, meditative presence—especially for those who may be allergic to furry companions.
TikTok users were instantly charmed by Banana’s cuteness.
“You’re actually supposed to live for Banana,” one person joked.
“I love how he has his little balloon,” added another viewer.
“The balloon so u know where he is and don’t step on him,” said a third.
One user shared a surprising tortoise fact: “Turtles and tortoises can actually feel pets and scratches on their shells! I bet Banana was living her best life getting all those pets.”
Another viewer was already thinking about Banana’s long-term impact. “Can’t tortoises live like up to 150 years or something? Banana the tortoise may outlive us all,” asked Rory.
“They told us Banana is only 17! Just a teen!” Jane replied.
The moment sparked memories for others who had encountered unconventional
therapy animals.
“My university has therapy chickens and my department has brought therapy llamas before. I love unique therapy animals (and it’s great for those of us with dog allergies),” shared Jamie.
“I can’t believe he’s not floating away he’s just a little guy,” someone else joked.
“We one time got a MASSIVE therapy rabbit,” another person added.
reached out to @jane.evghenia for comment via TikTok. We could not verify the details of the case.
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
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