BY SHERYL TAN JIA YI
Unveiling a world of joy and companionship
Picture this: You come across a Facebook picture of a puppy gazing at you affectionately, tugging at your heartstrings, and wordlessly begging, “Bring me home.” The next thing you know, you find yourself eagerly navigating through the aisles of your local pet shop, stocking up on dog food and the essentials for your new companion and that is how you ended up with an addition to the family.
Introducing a new furry friend to your humble abode brings infinite joy and happiness to your life. These incredible creatures with four legs show your boundless love and unwavering loyalty. It’s undeniable that you will wholeheartedly adore your new canine companion.
As far as you read, having a dog may seem like a picture-perfect scenario filled with rainbows and sunshine. However, the reality is far from that misconception, as many dog owners have unfortunately failed to fully grasp the responsibilities and commitments of having a furry companion.
Becoming a dog parent is immensely fulfilling, yet it comes with significant responsibilities. In some cases, it demands substantial investments in terms of time, money, and unwavering dedication for over 15 years.
Hence, before heading to the nearby pet store to bring home a new furry friend, pause for a moment and contemplate your reasons. Are you considering getting a dog solely due to its popularity in current culture, or is it because your children have unwaveringly pleaded for a puppy, or perhaps because you genuinely have the determination to invest your time and resources into giving your dog the life it deserves?
Sharon Chua, 22, has provided a glimpse into her life with two delightful French Bulldogs. Allow her to demonstrate why being an owner is so much more than simply owning pets.
“It’s an indescribable feeling of companionship, a mutual understanding that transcends words. Chanel was an incredible support during the pandemic, effortlessly easing uncertainties. She embodies pure love and is the joie de vivre that fills every corner of my life,” said Sharon.
When she finally decided to bring another dog home after two years, she expected something similar to her previous experience. But, to her surprise, things turned out quite differently. She soon realised that each dog has its own distinct habits and personality, making it impossible to replicate the same experience. Her new furry friend, Coco, demanded a lot of time and effort, giving her a whole set of new responsibilities to tackle.
Handling two dogs can sometimes be challenging, especially when giving them equal love and care. However, it is precisely in these moments that we experience personal development and growth.
“If you were to ask me how I feel about my decision, I would confidently say that I have no regrets. However, I feel guilty when I witness Chanel eagerly pushing through and striving for my attention. It’s as if the old saying “the more, the merrier” doesn’t quite hold in this particular situation,” she said.
When questioned about the experience of having dogs, she couldn’t help but express how these furry companions have added boundless joy and fulfilment to her life. From the sheer joy of waking up to wagging tails and being showered with warm snuggles on rainy days to the unwavering support they provide during life’s highs and lows, having her furry companions has been remarkable. Above all, their presence has undoubtedly imparted a profound sense of purpose that has influenced her well-being and personal development most positively.
“Certainly, desiring a dog with a purpose that holds deep meaning, be it as a watchdog, an invaluable service dog, or simply as your dearest companion, is completely understandable. Yet, I implore you all to kindly grasp the weight of responsibility and investment that accompanies this decision, and only then, wholeheartedly embark on the journey of owning one,” she said.
Indeed, owning dogs isn’t solely about receiving abundant affection and joy but rather about diligently providing them with the utmost care and attention. Merely providing food and shelter falls short of what it means to love and care for a dog.
When asked what it truly means to love and care for your dog, she said it is to give them the gift of companionship, understanding, and unwavering empathy. Make them feel safe and comforted in a world where they are genuinely heard.
“Those simple gestures of kindness, such as strolling side by side in the morning, gently stroking their belly to provide comfort, or joyfully playing fetch, hold the greatest significance. The acts mentioned above work wonders to strengthen the deep bond of love and trust between you and your furry companions,” Sharon explained.
She stressed the profound significance of the human-dog bond, portraying owners as more than just caretakers. Dogs view humans as their safety net, a strong pillar of support, and an endless well of comfort. The connection they have is often expressed through affectionate gazes. And in return, these incredible beings bring immeasurable joy and love into their human lives, reminding us of the boundless capacity for love that exists within us all.
Hence, as you embark on this remarkable journey, remember that your dog is not just a pet but a part of your family, an irreplaceable presence that fills your life with abundance and happiness. To encapsulate it, the journey of dog ownership is not without its challenges, but it’s in those moments of growth and learning that the true strength of the bond is forged. Together, you navigate the ups and downs of life, overcoming obstacles and celebrating victories hand in paw.
**This article was written by a student from the Strategic Communication Programme at the Faculty of Education, Language and Communication, UNIMAS.
