Howie the Crab, aged 9, breathed her last on Tuesday, February 18. Laura Porter, the proud owner of this cherished crustacean, took to Instagram to share the heartbreaking news of Howie’s passing, accompanied by a heartfelt tribute.
“I am shattered. Words cannot express how much she meant to me,” wrote Porter in the caption posted on Wednesday, February 19. “Howie left us peacefully, with grace and in peace. May our message echo around the world.”
“Crabs are sentient beings capable of feeling pain. Never subject them or any living creature to boiling alive,” she emphasized. “Howie lived a long and remarkable life, and her passing was a natural conclusion to it. I am grateful for all the support but please understand that I am overwhelmed by it.”
The caption was paired with a photo of Howie, overlayed with text detailing her 10-year lifespan. Born on June 24, 2015, Howie bid farewell on February 18, 2025.
Laura Porter had amassed nearly 2 million followers across various social media platforms with her posts about Howie’s daily adventures. Howie’s exquisite taste, including consuming caviar, had captivated her audience.
Tributes poured in from fans, reminiscing about their beloved shelled friend. “You’ll be missed, Howie! Rest in peace. Your legacy will live on. Laura, you were the best parent Howie could have had! ❤️❤️❤️ She passed knowing she was deeply loved!” expressed one user.
Another follower wrote, “Howie touched my heart in ways I never imagined. I adored her. Thank you for letting us be a part of her life. She lived fully, and I believe she’s now enjoying caviar and stylish hats over the rainbow. Sending prayers and love to your family.”
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE in April 2024, Laura Porter shared insights about Howie, then 8 years old, who had already surpassed her species’ life expectancy. Fans were rooting for the online sensation to reach her ninth birthday.
While facing various opinions about keeping a crab as a pet since her viral debut on TikTok in February 2022, Porter found a supportive community. “My tribe consists of animal enthusiasts beyond just the furry ones,” she said. “People who cherish all creatures showed genuine interest in Howie’s story.”
Howie, belonging to the Cardisoma Armatum species, commonly known as the rainbow crab, communicated through sign language, picking it up from Porter during feeding sessions. “She always recognized me among others and family members,” Porter shared.
(Source: Adapted from People)
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