My family wasn't very big on pets growing up. But I fell off of our patio and got lost in the brush and wilderness down there for a bit. I made friends with a bunny, and he was my companion for a long time.
I don't have many friends. My pets are like people to me, good friends, sometimes even children.
Take good care of her (I'm sure you will!) and she'll be your best friend for a long time to come.