Suzana

Coming from a big family with many siblings, my siblings and I took care of stray/ abandoned dogs as we don't have the luxury of buying one.

Leo (Pekingnese breed) was only six months old when my brother in law brought him home, he was my first puppy that I took care of when I was in secondary school.

I learned alot about discipline and responsibility in taking care of him.

Whenever I came home from school and call out to him, I see Leo running and wagging his tail, he loves his cuddles and hugs.

Ever since then (fast forward), my home have never been without a dog.

Rocky (Shih Tzu) was given to me when he was a year old and I decided to keep him as his owner was expecting their first child.

We didn't hesitate to ensure he has all his injections, and sent him for grooming cause his fur was badly tangled.

Tyler Nathaniel was the only pet that I bought, as we thought it will be a good idea for him to be Rocky's friend.

Both got on well living under one roof.

Tyler is such a good natured dog, always giving way to Rocky whenever its meal time.

I always discipline them to sit and wait for their meals, or treats.

I bring them out for their walk together to the nearby playground.

The neighbourhood will find it stange whenever I walk them; one is a small dog while the other is a big dog... and wondered how I managed.

Rocky passed on at 12 years old.

To keep Tyler from being lonely, I usually bring him to the dog park or visit his 4-legged cousins.

Unfortunately, Tyler Nathaniel passed on last month as he was diagnosed with bone cancer.

My family and I decided to bring him home to spend his last weeks at home.

He needed pallative care so my girls and I had to learn how to flip him so he will not get any bed sores, express his bladder every 4-5 hours, give him his meds and his drip.

I could not bear to put him down, as in my eyes he was my 4-legged son.

Seeing him not able to move makes me ache inside but I knew he was afraid and scared.

I slept with him throughout his final days, and chatting with him that we love him and will always remember the happines and joy he has brought me.

Recently, I doggy sit my sister's pet while she was away on vacation, Rusty (Corgi) came over to stay.

My sis said it will be good to fill the void now that the house is empty.

Doggie sitting / walking was brought up in my conversations with friends too, so I thought it will be less painful for me and to help me pass my time.

Thankfully, my spouse is very supportive and my girls love dogs!