02/06/2026
Around eight years ago, I lost two stray dogs — siblings — to distemper. I was painfully unaware that dogs could contract such a deadly disease, especially since all my pets had always been vaccinated.
I tried everything to save them, but I couldn’t. Losing them left such a deep mark that I promised myself I would never keep dogs again.
Life, however, had other plans.
Last year, someone abandoned three dogs at a temple near my home — two Indian Pariahs and a Boxer. They were bullied and beaten by both local dogs and people. Indian dogs are rarely welcomed… especially a female. She would constantly hide and run, just trying to survive.
I began feeding them in the evenings and eventually started bringing her home so she could feel safe. On the very first day, she slept for over fourteen hours. She would stay the night and run away again in the morning.
Slowly, she began trusting me. She let me put a collar on her… then a leash. But her favourite place is still curled up in my arms like a little lamb.
Soon, she brought her brother along too.
Something felt off. They kept showing me their bellies repeatedly. That’s when I discovered both had abnormal growths — one on his abdomen, and one near her uterus.
Maybe the universe is testing me again. But this time, I have decided to stand by them and make sure they know they are loved and cherished, however long they are here.
Taking them for walks has pushed my knee injury from using a simple cap to needing a brace… but the warmth of her hugs takes away every bit of pain.
Dear all, meet Cheeku and Chotu!