12th May 2026 Beena, Eunice & Shobha
I am honoured to share the heartfelt tributes two dear friends have written for their beloved pets. Our pets are more than companions—they become cherished members of our families, often touching our hearts in ways words cannot express. Sometimes, the bonds we form with them transcend even our closest human relationships. I feel compelled to share my reflections on this profound connection.
When I welcomed my first dog, Zara, into my life, I was uncertain how to care for her. On her first day at my apartment, I leashed her to the door while I cooked, following my friends’ advice on setting boundaries. She was only a few feet away, and I kept reassuring her with my voice. Yet her expressive eyes and gentle demeanour spoke volumes: she wanted to be free, to be close. That day, I learned an important lesson—I never leashed my dogs at home again. Zara became my shadow, always by my side. Only on walks did I use a lead to keep her safe. In truth, Zara taught me far more than I ever taught her. My initial focus was simply on house training, but she mastered it quickly, and the joy I felt was immense. Even when she chewed my dining chairs, I simply had them repaired, grateful for her presence. During my most stressful moments, Zara was my anchor, my source of calm—a true “sanity crutch.” When Mika joined our family, she was more challenging to train, but she filled our home with joy and laughter. Mika’s infectious happiness and her ability to make anyone smile were gifts I treasured. Though her time with us was brief—just four years—she left an indelible mark on my heart. Today, I am deeply thankful for Yumi, whose companionship continues to remind me of the immeasurable gifts our pets bring into our lives.
I am delighted to share a painting of Eunice’s sulcata tortoise, Olaf Junior—a truly unique companion who brought unexpected joy into her life. Each of us is drawn to certain animals, forging bonds that are both mysterious and profound. Our pets become confidants, friends, and family, listening to us and sharing our lives in ways few humans can. The stories that follow celebrate such extraordinary devotion.
Shobha immortalised her beloved dog Sparrow by painting her portrait on a glass bottle—a beautiful tribute to their bond. During a family car trip, her dog went missing, but with help from kind villagers, Shobha’s unwavering hope and determination led to a joyful reunion a week later. This act of love and perseverance is a testament to the lengths we go to for those we cherish.