What I learnt from my dogs!!

It was in 2018 that I got home my first very own pet (My desi girl, Tara). I have always had dogs, growing up and I cant imagine a life or a home without dogs. But I never really was the master or the responsible one, I got to have all the fun while my mom did the hard work!!

Ever since Tara came into my life, I began to feel very differently about animals in general, especially strays on the streets. That was also the year I began involving myself with different rescue initiatives, feeding strays, and even visiting and working with some NGOs that take care of them. Later on, I also got home Jessie. I found her in 2018 on the streets, abandoned by someone she once trusted. She was hurt, physically and emotionally, scared, angry, and had lost all faith. I would feed her every day, but she never let me get close until a 2020.

Tara is quite a handful. She is 6 now and has quite an attitude, doesn't trust easily. Because of my rescue work I think, from a young age, she saw dogs come and go as I would foster, so her sense of attachment is twisted! She really loved her daddy once upon a time, and his leaving has really affected her. She has trust issues and doesn't let anyone get too close to her – she chooses who can touch her.

Tara taught me that it's important to love yourself – she always chooses herself. I learned that it's important to communicate – she always tells me when she needs water, food, a walk, or a cuddle. I learnt that one must stand their ground, and it's okay to be cranky too at times. Girls love attention so does my princess. I also learnt that a lady must never be too available for a man – you should see how pricey she is with the handsome hunks!

Tara has been a source of great strength for me and I talk to her about everything. She has come to understand me and my ways too and has slowly let me in. We are growing together!!

Jessie, on the other hand, is needy and clingy, scarred from her past. She hasn't received much love, it seems. She gets scared when I scold Tara and is rather subdued. She and Tara were sworn enemies at the beginning, but now they are inseparable.

Jessie is a fighter. She survived on the streets and she fought, even at the cost of being bitten, she fought! From Jessie, I learnt that sometimes, all you need is some love and a companion. I learnt that a little love can bring great joy. That in life, at times, one must also submit, and it's okay to be weak too – it's important to enjoy this life, the green grass, and the wind that blows.

I learned a profound lesson about sensitivity and empathy from my dog. Whenever there was a loud noise or when I raised my voice, I could see her fear reflected in her eyes. It became clear how deeply a loud scream can resonate with someone already feeling shattered inside.

Her reaction taught me that fear can be triggered by even small moments of anger or frustration. It reminded me to be mindful of how my emotions affect those around me. Just as my dog would cower, I realized that people, too, can carry invisible scars that make them vulnerable to harsh words or sudden noise.

They are my life and my joy, and all animals are love! I pray the world can be better for them.