I was absent during part of two of my pets' development and I feel guilty.
That's bad. Is there a reason you were absent during part of their development?
I felt so much pressure from my parents that I couldn't commit to something as big as a pet. I missed out on things.
You got busy and missed out. Forgive yourself. It's okay and your pets will understand.
I love my pets and my guilt hurts. I know they will understand but publicly apologizing will redeem me in front of my peers.
I am sure your friends will understand, but you shouldn't feel so guilty about missing out on parts of your pet's life. They certainly won't remember that you were gone.