Our wonderful dog Juppu

In one of the houses we stayed in Singapore, the landlord told us specifically what all he banned- one no pork and two no dog- the latter being the most important of the lot. In our family we loved dogs and could not understand why he disliked dogs. They are so cute and furry- I wonder how someone could actually detest these adorable creatures.

But for us- it's a completely different story. From the time I was small there has never been a time when we did not have dogs. Not only did they complete our family picture but they also had a surname following their name. I know it sounds demented but believe me some people do love their dogs so very much.

It's not just the loyalty factor which makes people value dogs more than cats; but their caring and understanding nature. Just two weeks ago we lost our dog. It was a tragic thing to happen to an animal who meant no harm to anyone. Like all days our dog used to take a walk out. And he used to return after his routine. We all assumed he would like always. But this time around as he was returning from outside he saw a car coming. In order to dodge the moving vehicle he jumped only to be caught under its tire. It was a sad sight and our hearts were crushed to see a lively soul losing his life under the wheel. That day turned out to be my Birthday.

When I heard the news I did not know how to react. Only when I came home did I sense a kind of emptiness. Whenever this boy was at home he would make it a point to make his presence felt. He would bark at the outsiders making even the delivery boys run out the gate out of fright. He would follow the maid all around the house. He was just 4 and was charged with energy. One thing I always noticed about Juppu was his love for food and love for his master.

When my uncle's car sounded at a distance he would be the first one to go up and stand at the gate to receive him. Such was the affection the dog had for his master. My relationship with him goes a long time back. But recently when I was down I used to discipline him not to bark and he listened. But now that he is not there...there's no one to correct or stop. My other dog snowy too feels the loss now as initially she made her rounds looking for him. I guess she will slowly realize that she has lost her mate.

Death is an inevitable lesson in understanding that some things are not meant to be with you always. It's only memories that will remain eternally with us- be that of a human being or dog.