The Waltons (1972)

S03E04 The Runaway

With John-Boy off at college, Jim Bob feels isolated and overlooked. In an attempt to find companionship, he brings home a guinea pig that serves as the school mascot. Tragically, the tiny pet passes away during the night, but the family is too preoccupied with their own pursuits to notice Jim Bob's distress. Heartbroken after giving the guinea pig a proper burial in the woods, Jim Bob decides to leave home in search of solace.