Following the death of my best friend's dog, I become worried about my dog's well-being. Also attributed to the fact that Happy's (my dog) skin condition was worsening, I decided to wait no longer and brought her to the vet yesterday evening.
Facts about Happy
#1. My dog, Happy is turning 11 years old on 1st of March.
#2. She has always been a little overweight.
#3. Other than ear infection these few years, she has some skin problems lately.
#4. She is still as active and adorable.
#5. She rushes to me excitedly everytime I come home.
Facts about Me, the Owner
#1. I walk Happy occasionally; once every month (my dad walks her every morning).
#2. My parents are the main people looking after her (feeding, cleaning and bathing her).
#3. My parents think that I am incapable of taking good care of her if I am the only one left to do so.
I admit that I am guilty of not keeping to the promises I made 11 years ago on 11th June 2001. My parents trusted that I would be the owner I claimed that I wanted to be -- always attentive and attending to my dog's needs and setting aside time for her.
~
I recalled that I used to have a strong yearning to have a dog as a pet when I was in secondary one. If I were to flip my diary, I'm certain I can find the wishlist page with my earnest handwriting detailing my deepest desire. As a matter of fact, I was afraid of animals when I was young. It was when my best friend owned her furry companion that I conquered my fear, and love animals thereafter. Anyway, it took me three years of persuasion before my parents determined that I was serious and that they had enough to provide for a pet dog.
On that fateful day, my parents brought me to a pet shop. I had no idea that they were going to get me a puppy because they had been asking me if I wanted a chinchilla instead. Within the pet shop, there were several dogs; large dogs like golden retriever was not within our consideration due to their physical requirements (not feasible in a HDB flat). As my eyes wandered around the room, I spotted two jack russell terrier puppies playing in an enclosure. One of them had a puny dried-up wound which was inflicted by the other puppy. The shopkeeper told me that the other pup (without the wound) was really hyperactive. So I had a look at the pup with wound, it was a full mask, smooth coat, lemon and tan terrier. Apparently the pup was really good-natured but I felt disconnected with it's occasional glances. I had the shopkeeper picked up the naughty pup and immediately there was a magical connection. Within less than an hour, I made a very important choice -- I've chosen the companion for the next 12 - 15 years of my life. I was euphoric after I signed the papers, I'm my dog's official owner! Yay!
When I brought Happy home that night, she was 3 months old. She was tiny and dependent. My parents allowed me to keep her in my room and throughout the evening she was whining in her cage. I couldn't bear to hear her sorrowful cries and let her out. That was a very delightful first evening with her because she ran around and had to halt to a stop when she wanted to (the floor was smooth). She was really adorable!
Years passed and she grew from a small puppy to a grown-up dog and ultimately to a senior dog she is now. Not a day that has passed by that I've ever considered abandoning her. Though there was a stage my parents considered that option. I always thank God for Happy. Without her, I can't imagine how my life would be. As a matter of fact, she made me a better person. The times when she looked ill, my family were concerned and sent her to the vet.
Maybe it was the fact that the condition of her liver was not ideal that got me really worried or that I regretted not spending more time with her and my parents... I resolute to put in my best effort to take care of my dog and family.
Bottom line is, treasure every moment with your loved ones.
On a side note: Nat is awesome! :) He drove Happy and I back and forth.
Love,
Pam
Comments