Category: Community Stories

Featuring stories from real pet owners and resources for all thing pets

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Aon’s Happy Tales: Dashdashingdachshund

There’s a common saying that our pets are caricatures of our character and personality. A stay-home hermit will have a low-energy furbaby who keeps them company, and a high-functioning socialite will have a pawpal who can match their energy. So what happens when you have an outdoorsy hooman who loves swimming, long walks, and a little bit of sun? Eleanor, graphic designer and pawmom, has a furry-footed answer in the form of a Dachshund named Dash.

A friend for the hard times

Eleanor’s transition to pet ownership was by no means easy. 

Despite wanting a dog at 17 years old, Eleanor was well aware that she could not afford to maintain a pet as a student. Her father was also allergic to pet fur, which was another setback for her, but that did not stop her from making preparations regardless. “After graduating, I got myself a full-time job walking dogs,” Eleanor said. “Thanks to that, I learnt to handle all kinds of dogs and even do obedience training with the ones I am in charge of!” 

Eleanor then switched from full-time dog-walking to simply volunteering at a dog rescue, when she found a new job in the office. But as work took a change of pace and commitment became difficult, she stopped volunteering altogether.

A few years after, Eleanor’s father passed. Then came the pandemic.

To cope with their loss and the anxiety from the pandemic, Eleanor and her mother felt it was time to introduce a furbaby into their family. The two went store to store looking for a puppy that the two could agree on. Their search led Eleanor to an adorable Dachshund pupper.

“It was an instant decision when I saw him interacting with his two sisters,” she said. “His sisters were barking non-stop, but Dash just quietly initiated play. He’s gentle, sticks closely to me, and is definitely the one I was looking for.” 

Knight and Shining Pupper

Dash sees all strangers as friends-to-be and approaches them as such. With dogs, he always puts his best paw forward. With humans, he asks for head rubs and belly rubs. More than anything, the Dachshund just wants to play all day. 

The doggo is a big fan of walking. “His daily routine includes hour-long walks in the neighbourhood park, playing with his best friends in the evening and chasing them around snatching sticks from them.”

“Every week, Dash gets to visit a fun place at least once. It could be dog runs, swimming at the beach, dog cafes, or just walking around Singapore’s tourist attractions. He enjoys it, and so do I.”

“One can never be too prepared”

Eleanor knows that a doggo as active as Dash runs a high risk of injury from all his running, jumping, and climbing. Her house has since been fitted with cushioned carpets and ramps to make Dash’s home environment that much safer. But one can never be too prepared, so she covered him with pet insurance. 

“I purchased Aon Happy Tails on the same day I got Dash because I knew that Dachshunds run a higher risk of inherited diseases,” Eleanor said. “Hip and spinal injuries are also highly probable, and treatment would otherwise be very expensive.” Dachshunds are predisposed to suffer from Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD). IVDD causes a dog’s vertebrae and discs to become brittle, running a risk of nerve damage or spinal damage similar to humans.

“Obviously, I would never hope to use these claims — I have tried very hard to stop Dash from jumping off of stairs or higher ground, but he does have a tendency to forget his training whenever his excitement gets the better of him.”

When asked about her thoughts on pet insurance as mandatory, Eleanor was quick to support the notion. “I’ve been recommending Aon Happy Tails to many Dachshund owners. Specifically, because it will help to cover the otherwise costly bill for surgeries related to spinal and hip injuries — both of which are common to the Dachshund breed.”

*Bonus Question*

Say Dash could speak hooman for 7 days. What would you say to him for that week?

“Dash speaking? If anything, he will be asking me for treats all the time and head out to find his friends! I guess I will get headaches because he is not going to stop demanding it.

Although, I would love to talk to him and negotiate terms with him ?. It will save me a lot of time on training and correcting him!”

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Aon’s Happy Tales: Lola.thegoldenshowgirl

This article was brought to you by Aon Happy Tails.

Holding the title for the most friendly dog breed, Golden Retrievers are as wholesome as they come. The breed is synonymous with being happy and easygoing and will want nothing more than for you to be happy. Such an embodiment of sunshine and rainbows is an absolutely accurate way to describe Lola, the durian-loving doggo to pawmon Daphne.

Lola is a good-natured cinnamon roll, friendly to humans and doggos alike. Despite being in doggy daycare since she was 14 weeks old, the Golden Retriever is rather unaware of her own size when playing with dogs and people alike. 

A smile worth protecting

Lola and Daphne

Lola’s golden rays had been shining for as long as Daphne could remember. “By chance, Lola was one of two remaining puppies in her litter of nine,” she said. “We picked Lola because she was the more playful of the pair and approached us. It was an easy choice after that.” The litter would still meet from time to time, thanks to Daphne and the other pawrents exchanging contacts and keeping in touch with each other. Because of that, Lola’s bond with her pack is even stronger than most — the litter even gathered to celebrate their first birthday!

Energetic and playful

As one would expect, Lola is incredibly high-spirited and active; possessing energy rivalling a dynamo. “She will play and completely forget that you can (and might) tip over if a 30kg doggo gets too excited and jumps at you!” Daphne mentioned that Lola is obsessed with tennis balls and swimming, so the pawfamily would go for regular swims (Sentosa Beach is where her heart lies). “Lola is also just happy being at any big field,” Daphne said. “There, she can run freely and chase after her tennis balls.”

Lola having the time of her life at Sentosa

Past experiences, present worries

“From past experiences, pet insurance is something that I know we should have.” Daphne’s previous Golden Retriever had passed due to Advanced Nasal Cancer. The harrowing experience had left the pawmom worried the same might happen to Lola.

Among dog breeds, Golden Retrievers, unfortunately, have the highest rate of cancer — slightly less than double the rate of cancer in all dogs. The estimate for that is one in three, according to the Golden Retriever Club. 

Daphne believes that pet insurance is mandatory for all pet owners to have peace of mind. After all, insurance exists to protect us from unforeseen circumstances. She recounted an incident when Lola was 15 months old, whereby the doggo accidentally swallowed an antler chew that she had been playing with. “We brought her to the vet for an X-ray and they performed an endoscopy on her to fish out the chew bone,” she said. “Thankfully, the majority of the cost of surgery was covered by insurance, so did not have to pay as much in the end!”

*Bonus Question*

Say Lola could speak hooman for 7 days. What would you say to her for that week?

“We would tell her to stop snatching someone else’s toys at the dog pool or beach. It’s embarrassing! We would remind her of her size and to give others their personal space. Most importantly, we want Lola to know that she brings lots of joy to everyone around her and we love her so very much. 

We always hope to be able to bring her along for a long holiday trip. Probably Canada during Autumn/Winter so she can experience a different and cooler climate because we think she’s gonna love the weather. It will be an adventure too, having her tag along on our travels and explore a whole new world for herself.”

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Aon’s Happy Tales: Littlenutcass

One’s life is the sum of all their choices. It is rarely what your circumstances are that matter, but rather how you rise above them that do. Will you let your conditions define you? Cassiopeia, a two-year-old corgi decides to blaze her own trail. With her pawmom Keen, the duo overcome hip dysplasia with peace of mind and explore Singapore’s many nature trails.

When Keen first met Cassiopeia in 2020, she mistook the doggo for a purebred Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Although Cassie did look like a corgi, and act like a corgi, so there was little room for doubt anyway. Imagine the shock, when it was revealed in a DNA test that Cassie was actually part Russell Terrier! “Nevertheless, I wouldn’t trade her for the world!”

Instant energy at the flip of a switch

Cassie’s spontaneity shines in how ready she is to match a mood. The pooch is content with just taking full-day naps or playing fetch at home. But when the pawfamily brings her out, she is raring for an adventure. Keen takes Cassie out every weekend for all sorts of activities, and lets Cassie run alongside her when she’s on her kickscooter. Cassie is also a natural water doggo, and enjoys swimming with her pawrents while out on their woodland adventures.

Funnily enough, Cassie startles easily and lends herself to peer pressure. “She loves humans but is very selective when it comes to other doggos. She has a fear of missing out (FOMO),” Keen said.  “Even though she may be cheeky, and uses her smarts for mischief… Though she gets weird about sudden noises, and thus hates our air fryer.”

The thing about small dog breeds

“My biggest fear is, one day, something will suddenly happen that will take Cassie away from me.”

Keen was sorely aware of the health risks that would lay dormant in small dog breeds like corgis. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) and Hip Dysplasia, the latter being exceptionally common among poorly-bred corgis. “We took her for an X-ray when she was 11 months old and sure enough, her hip socket is shallower than it should be.

Canine Hip Dysplasia is a condition that results in a loose fit of the hip joints, causing hip pain and limb dysfunction. There is no cure for it, but dogs can take measures to delay its symptoms, such as maintaining a healthy diet and a regular exercise routine.

The only thing they can do, Keen says,  is to make sure that Cass is fed right and take as many preventative measures as possible, all so that she lives her best life every day.”

“It was never a question to get it too.”

Keen wasted no time in finding Cassie an insurance plan. “It’s never a question for us humans to get insured. Considering vet fees are also very expensive, it only makes sense to get insurance for Cassie as well.” They are now insured with Aon Happy Tails, which provides coverage for congenital conditions like Hip Dysplasia and IVDD (with no pre-existing conditions). This way Keen is able to have peace of mind knowing that she will be able to tide through any rainy day expenses, such as surgery.

“I think a lot of people don’t realise that getting a pet costs much more than just the initial price tag,” Keen says. Other than its coverage, pet owners also need to consider the affordability in proportion to the coverage offered. “Personally, I’d rather pay the premiums once a year, than be suddenly hit with a ginormous vet fee with nothing to offset the cost.”

Check out Cassiopeia’s shenanigans on her Instagram, @littlenutcass.

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Community Stories

How to Safely Have Plants and Pets

This article was written by Cady Cohen from SiegeMedia.

As a pet owner, you want to keep your furry friends safe, especially at home, whether that is by storing household chemicals or making sure your indoor plant life isn’t harmful. No matter how gorgeous and green they look, not all plants can coexist well with your pets. That doesn’t mean you have to pick one over the other; you just have to educate yourself on pet-friendly plants.

A poisonous plant contains toxins that can harm your pet if touched or ingested. If a sufficient amount is ingested, the results can be fatal. For example, lilies and aloes are two poisonous plants you do not want to have in your home for your pets to come into contact with. 

If you still want to have some greenery in your home but don’t know where to stay, start here with these pet-safe plants.

1. Spider Plant

While the name may seem a bit toxic, this is one of the best pet-friendly plants. Spider plants also a great option if you are a beginner when it comes to greenery. These plants thrive alone in dark areas without the need for any sunlight. Spider plants can even be hung high if you are nervous about your pet messing with the leaves.

Image by @live.healthy.outdoors on Instagram

2. Goldfish Plant

This plant gets its name from the red and orange flowers that create an illusion of jumping goldfish. If your cat or dog mistakes this plant for a real goldfish, there is no need to worry since it is non-toxic to them. This plant does best indoors and can last up to a decade.

Image by @sunday.plant.check on Instagram

3. Money Tree

Unlike its name, the money tree doesn’t actually have to do anything with actual money. However, it is a jackpot for those looking for non-toxic plants to have in their home. While it is one of the less harmful plants for your pets, be sure they are not nibbling on the leaves to avoid an upset stomach. This plant does require routine maintenance. Water the tree frequently, especially when the top layer appears dry, which means the plant needs hydration. But avoid overwatering it so the plant isn’t sitting in a puddle. It will then start to rot.

Image by @viveromobile on Instagram

4. Orchid

Add some color to your pet-friendly plant collection with beautiful orchids. This plant will also need more TLC than the previous plants mentioned. Orchids thrive best in partial lighting in an environment that is warm and humid. If cared for properly, your orchids will blossom and last for months.

Plant Safety Tips

Having plants in your home is a great way to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve memory and concentration. You just have to do some research before bringing them home to know which plants can coexist with your pets. If you are still nervous about your pets messing with your greenery, put them on shelves or hang them where your pets will not be able to reach them.

If your pet does at any point come in contact with an unfamiliar substance or ingests something toxic, bathe them and seek treatment immediately.

For more information on how pets and plants can coexist, check out the infographic below.

Image from lemonade.com

Cover photo by Chewy on Unsplash

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How To Choose The Right Dog Breed For Your Family

Many different breeds of dogs on the grass

Dogs are man’s best friend and part of the family. If you’re a pet owner and thinking about adopting a new dog but don’t know what dog breed to get, this article is for you.  

It’s crucial that you carefully choose the right fur baby, especially if you live with your family, as not everyone might appreciate the dog breed. 

Also, you need to be sure about getting a dog. Don’t discard them when you get bored. Dogs are not toys that you can just toss around. They have feelings like human beings. 

Continue reading for factors to consider in choosing a dog.

Size Matters   

Before getting a dog, you should consider how much space you have in your home or apartment. Size is a significant factor that you and your family need to consider before selecting any breed. 

If you have a spacious house with a backyard, you can go for medium or large dog breeds. It should give your fur baby enough space to play, roam around, and poop in the backyard. 

On the other hand, a small dog breed is suitable if you live in an apartment or a condo unit. These rarely need to go outdoors. Keep in mind that although tiny dogs don’t require a lot of room, most of them are prone to accidents around the house. Perhaps they’re too little, and you didn’t notice that you’re already stepping on their tail or paw.   

Large canines may also cause damage to your furniture. They’re not ideal for tiny homes because being confined to a tight space doesn’t give them enough room to release their pent-up energy, making them prone to behavioral problems.  

Here are examples of dog breeds in different sizes: 

  • Small-Sized Dogs: Bichon Frise, Dachshund, Maltese, Pomeranian, and Pug. 
  • Medium-Sized Dogs: American Foxhound, Bulldog, Chow Chow, Dalmatian, and English Springer Spaniel 
  • Large-Sized Dogs: Akita, Doberman Pinscher, Great Dane, Mastiff, and Siberian Husky. 

Grooming Needs

Every dog needs to be groomed. It’s advisable to start getting your puppy groomed when they’re around 10 weeks old. Some dog breeds require a little more based on their coat type. If you have hairy dogs, you’ll need to groom them regularly.

Furthermore, most short-haired and smooth-coated dogs shed a lot. Hence, you’ll have to vacuum or sweep the floor and other parts of the house frequently.  

Additionally, some breeds are more susceptible to diseases than others. And dogs with floppy ears are prone to ear infections and require regular ear cleaning.

Life Stages 

The dog’s personality evolves with every life stage: puppy, adolescent, adult, and senior.  

During the first six months, puppies require a lot of training and attention. Hence, they’re best for families that can devote more time and patience. The entire process won’t be easy, and there will be a lot of damaged furniture and other items in the house. 

But on the bright side, they’ll eventually mature as they age. It’s like watching a kid grow up right before your very eyes. 

Now, adult dogs are already house-trained and a lot calmer than puppies. Additionally, you know what to expect with older dogs, and you’re familiar with their medical history.

Fits Your Lifestyle 

Look for a dog that matches your stamina. If your family lives an active lifestyle, high-spirited dogs are suitable. They will complement your energy, and you can do many outdoor activities together.  

But if you’re more of a laid-back household and prefer taking strolls around the block or park, go for low-energy dogs.  

If you randomly choose a dog, you may get frustrated or bored. 

Here are several dog breeds classified according to energy level: 

  • Active Dogs: Border Collie, Jack Russell Terrier, Weimaraner, Belgian Malinois, and Boxer. 
  • Couch Potatoes: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Saint Bernard, Basset Hound, Pekingese, or a Neapolitan Mastiff. 

Distinguishing Traits  

Dogs have distinct characteristics. Thus, choosing the right breed suitable for the entire family is crucial.  

If you’re sensitive to animal fur, consider hypoallergenic breeds such as Affenpinscher, Bolognese, Chinese Crested, Löwchen, and Yorkshire Terrier.  

Families with infants or small children should get kid-friendly dogs like Bernese Mountain Dog, Golden Retriever, Beagle, Poodle, and Cocker Spaniel.  

If you live in an apartment with elderly neighbors, select from dog breeds that fit a quiet neighborhood, such as French Bulldog, Australian Cattle Dog, Shar-Pei, Greyhound, Shiba Inu, and Shih Tzu. 

Suppose you need guard dogs to watch over your house and the entire property. In that case, it’s ideal to get three from the following dog breeds: Appenzeller Sennenhunde, Bullmastiff, Cane Corso, German Shepherd, or Rottweiler can help secure your home.

Conclusion

Choosing the best dog breed for you and your family can make all the difference. You’re not only adding a new member to the family but also giving the dog a home. 

Many dogs have been abandoned, ending up in shelters. By adopting one or two, you’re giving them a chance at a better life.  Buying a dog will do just as well, but be sure to take good care of them.

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How to Choose the Right Dog Breed

This article was brought to you by Julia from Dogsplanet

Getting a dog is always exciting: you can already imagine all the fun you are going to have— and they haven’t even arrived yet! 

But before you return to those imagined scenes of fetch, let’s take a minute to decide which dog breed you should open your heart and home to. 

There are several factors to consider before getting a dog to ensure that both your new pup and your family can get along well, and are the best possible companions for each other. 

Here are the questions you need to ask yourself that will help you reach your conclusive decision:

Where Do You Live? 

Contrary to popular belief, the size of your home does not directly correspond with the size of dog you should get. Some large dog breeds, like Great Danes and Saint Bernards, will be perfectly happy living in an apartment, as they mostly just want to lie on the sofa next to you and cuddle. 

There are also small dog breeds that are nothing short of a dynamo, who will need a lot of space to run around, and who will do laps around your tiny flat. Practically all terriers are like that. 

Photo by Adam Kontor from Pexels

What you do want to consider is if you have a backyard. Breeds like the German Shepherd and the Boxer will absolutely need one, for example. If you live somewhere pretty isolated, you might also want to consider a guard dog breed that will also provide some added protection to your family. 

Photo by Julia Filirovska

Factor in the climate as well. Thick-coated Malamutes and Huskies won’t exactly be thrilled to live in the tropics. 

How vocal the dog breed tends to be is an important consideration as well. You don’t want the neighbors to go nuts, so maybe a Frenchie will be the right pup for your living arrangements.

How Active and Busy Are You?

The dog you choose should be your perfect match in terms of energy levels and lifestyle. If you like to hike, your dog should be able to keep up with you. If you prefer to spend your days at the beach, you want a breed that loves the water.

Be very honest with yourself when assessing your activity levels and the time you have to spend with your dog. Don’t just promise yourself you will go on longer walks and exercise more. If you have never been much of a fitness fanatic, having a dog probably won’t change you. In fact, having to get up early in the morning to walk them may just get on your nerves. 

Photo by Cesar Mendez from Pexels

If you have more of a laidback and low-activity kind of family, consider getting an English Bulldog, a Basset Hound or a Boston Terrier. All of these breeds have their distinct personalities, but don’t require that much physical activity.

If you have an active type of family, you can share your home with a Labrador, an Australian Shepherd or a Border Collie. 

Are There Young Children in Your Family?

Photo by Julissa Helmuth from Pexels

Certain dog breeds are great companions for young children, and they can certainly become the life and soul of the entire family unit. If you are looking for a pet that will be patient with your youngsters and let them play dress-up and have tea parties, look no further than Golden Retrievers. 

However, make sure to also consider the amount of work the new pet will require, and how much the kids will be able to chip in. Owning a dog is certainly an amazing way to teach the kids responsibility and empathy, as long as you are realistic about the amount of help they can lend. 

Before bringing the dog home, make sure to ask about their personality and temperament. While most purebred dogs will behave true to breed, some pups will be a bit more stubborn, or a little bit more anxious than you may have hoped for. 

Do You Have Any Allergies? 

If you or any member of your household suffers from allergies, you will need to choose your dog very carefully. Hypoallergenic breeds are a thing, but even these dogs can cause an unwanted and unexpected reaction, so spend some time around them before you decide to get one.

The Bichon Frise, Coton de Tulear and Poodle are all good choices if you suffer from allergies. They are also on the smaller side, so you will be able to care for them in a small apartment too, as they don’t require a yard. 

Be mindful of the way the coats of these dogs need to be cared for. The Poodle for example requires plenty of brushing and regular trips to the groomer, so make sure you are ready to set aside the time. 

Have You Owned a Dog Before?

Finally, you want to consider the amount of training and attention your new pet will need. Some breeds are notoriously hard to train and can be extremely stubborn. The Basset Hound, while great with kids, is also a very independent dog, and will require a lot of patience when training, for example. 

Other breeds, like the Corgi, will require a lot of activity and work, if you don’t want them to start herding you. They are not at all difficult to train, and are considered one of the smartest breeds, but if left to their own devices, they will likely come up with an activity you are not a fan of. 

If you have owned dogs before, and if you know how to teach a pup both the basic commands and some more complex tricks, you should essentially be fine with most breeds. 

If this is your first time owning a dog, you may want to consider a breed like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, the English Springer Spaniel, or even the Labrador. Border Collies and German Shepherds can also be a great choice, especially if you are looking for a dog that will love to spend time outdoors and be active. 

Wrapping It Up 

Finding the right dog breed for your family and lifestyle will require a bit of research and time. However, you will be thankful you did it, once your new pet arrives home and slots right into your day-to-day life, just like you hoped they would.

Cover Photo by Helena Lopes from Pexels

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Aon’s Happy Tails: Lexi.the.spitz

Our pawpals only as much as a quarter of our hooman lifespans. In the short amount of time that they spend with us, we as pawrents would want them to live with minimal discomfort. That is the ethos that Alvina, pawmom of her Japanese Spitz Lexi, hopes to carry.

Alvina works in the IT industry and has made the switch to work from home more often to spend time with Lexi. “I felt our time with our dogs are too short,” she said. “Adjusting to a new job isn’t easy, but having a happy pill like Lexi makes it a whole lot better!”

Great with the neighbours

The four-year-old stepped into Alvina’s life looking worse for wear. Lexi was initially introduced as timid and fearful of everything; a quiet dog with prominent tear stains. “We weren’t sure what to expect at first,” said Alvina, “but the Lexi we now know is more curious and bold in exploring the world around her. She loves humans a lot, and though she is not very vocal, she will bark when her guard is up.”

Lexi is a model resident, greeting her neighbours every evening and taking notice of the hoomans she meets on her walks. On occasion, her neighbours would even pop by the house to greet and play with her. With pawpals, she plays with older dogs more, but not so much with high-energy doggos. 

Foodie but also a cutie

“Beyond belly rubs, butt taps, and more love from hoomans, Lexi also enjoys her walks!” Alvina explains. Lexi knows when a walk is happening (Alvina getting her stuff and wearing her mask is a good cue) and will wind up excitedly for it. “Her favourite words are “Let’s go!” and she goes crazy once I pick up the leash!” 

In their free time, Alvina also enjoys running through dog tricks with Lexi. The food-driven doggo loves all kinds of food, but Lexi has taken her love a step further — Alvina has realised that Lexi can identify the words “cheese” and “banana”. “Our cheese slices and bananas are always missing a small corner, but who can resist those eyes of hers?”

Hope for a pain-free life

“My biggest fear is her health problems that will come as she grows older,” says Alvina. Japanese Spitzs have a higher risk of developing Luxating Patella (LP), a condition in which their kneecaps dislocates from their normal position. In an effort to give Lexi a pain-free life, Alvina has begun incorporating supplements into her diet. 

The underlying concern that pawrents like Alvina face has always been the cost of surgeries. Without proper financial planning, medical care for one’s furbabies can end up at an unmanageable cost. “I heard about the high costs of surgery and vet expenditure, especially when pets developed more ailments with age,” she said. 

Alvina believes pet owners should never have to be put in a situation where they had to weigh the costs of medical treatment, which is why she placed pet insurance as an immediate priority when she first heard of its inception. “Pet insurance became an immediate priority when I realised they existed. If we need health insurance, why not our pets?” she said. “The few hundreds you spend on the insurance is only the cost of a vacation at a nearby country. The unconditional love that they give back is truly priceless!”

*Bonus Content*

Say Lexi could speak hooman for 7 days. What would you say to her for that week?

“I’d ask her what are the things she likes/dislikes, things she’d like more of, and what she loves about being in this family. I’d keep talking to her like you would with your best friend. I’ll ask why she barks incessantly at my dad every night, and why she pees on the bathroom rug in the kitchen. Although I’m not sure how talkative she would be, seeing how few sounds she makes compared to other dogs… maybe she’s more of a listener?”

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An Animal Communicator Told Me Gypsie Thinks She’s My Human Child!

This article was written by Liang May. Sign up to be a contributor on Pawjourr here and have your content shared!

Have you heard of an Animal Communicator? Apparently, they have the ability to understand animals when they listen intently. We were curious and would like to understand Gypsie a little more. That is when we decided to ask an Animal Communicator for assistance. 

Yi Lin will answer questions owners would like to know about their pets and translate that to us from her visions. All she asked was a recent full-body shot of Gypsie. 

I sent her this. 

The first message she received from Gyps from this photograph was that “Gyspie felt cold”. When this was communicated to us, Meyer turned around to look at Gypsie, “Hmmm? Are you cold?” To our amazement, Gypsie, who was lying down on the floor behind him, looked up and responded with a whimper as if vocalising her thoughts! In a manner that we had never heard before! Gypsie stood up excitedly and wagged her tail, as if surprised to hear we understood her. Well, I do not know if she was really cold but when I don on my clothes on her, she did not disagree with it. 

How do we know if Yi Lin did not just assume Gypsie was cold from seeing how unusually short-coated Gyps was in the photo on that really cold day?

We listened to more of what she found out from Gypsie based on the questions we had.

1. How does she feel when dogs she doesn’t know come into her line of sight during her walks? 

2. How does she feel when we leave her alone at home?

3. What makes her happy or sad?

1. How does she feel when dogs she doesn’t know come in sight during her walks? 

“Seems like she is well-behaved, like a kid who asks permission from daddy and mommy before she goes and play. Then again, she feels that real playing is with her siblings, Ewan and Faye. Otherwise, she is not very interested. She will want her siblings to join in her play together, especially your daughter. She’s more of the “Let’s do things together as siblings” attitude! Very attached and also sees herself as a human child in the family. She feels neglected when she is not involved in the kids’ activities.”

You know what? She always wants to be involved in Ewan and Faye’s play. 
When they play ball, she wants to play too but we don’t let her because she doesn’t know the rules. She would hoard the ball and run away with it. Other times, she would chase them for the ball and nip them to win the ball over. Her nips are akin to bites and when excited, they hurt! 
On other occasions when the kids are playing water in their swimwear at the patio, we would lock the door and keep her out. Well! I don’t want her to get wet and then spend an hour drying/dematting her! Every time, she would scratch the door, bark at them to let her play and whimper when she wasn’t allowed to join them. Awww….


I vividly recall a Dog Run visit at West Coast with Ewan, Faye and three of their cousins. We brought all five human kids and her to the Dog Run! She was ecstatic! There were dogs in the Run, her human siblings were in the Run but there was one problem. It was extremely muddy. The five kids got themselves dirty and hurried out of the Dog Run to find a toilet to wash up. They were in there for just 5 minutes! Instead of playing with the other dogs, Gypsie dashed after her humans! She in the inside and them walking on the outside, separated by the fence. She was confused, she was barking and whimpering. She was telling us, “I WANT TO GO WITH THEM!” 

Meyer and I told her to go play with her own kind! Ewan and Faye were just going to the toilet and back. As astounded as we were, she did not want to play anymore and kept getting us to open the gate to leave. She must find her human siblings. 

That was such an interesting revelation of the kind of dog Gypsie is. 
However, she doesn’t really seek permission from us when she meets other dogs on our walks though. In fact, we find her to be ill-behaved *haha* because she would bark and growl at some of them! That’s a growing issue we are working so hard to eradicate. Our trainer is certain the reason why she is selective to certain dogs is because of a bad experience in her past; that she is protecting herself by barking at them and willing them to go away. 

2. How does she feel when we leave her alone at home?

“If you leave her at home, she gets upset. She lies there, looking out at the balcony so sadly. Her last message to you is, “Mommy, bring me along.””

We bring Gypsie out every opportunity we could. We would even choose eateries that welcome her little furry existence. Sometimes though we would really want to eat at a restaurant, with air-conditioning. Those times, we have to say goodbye to her. 


Her reaction would vary but mostly, she stays home quietly watching us close the main door without retaliation. It felt like she was taking it well each time! Well, if this is true that she forlornly waits for our return by looking out sadly into the “not so far horizon”, we will try to leave her alone as little as we can.

3. What makes her happy or sad?

“What makes her happy? She showed me a scene of her licking your face. What makes her sad? When she cannot be involved in activities with the family.”

My face is the most licked in the family for sure! Both paws on my shoulders like a neck hug and saliva all over from my ears to forehead, nose, cheeks and lips! *ahhaha * neck too.

Many would probably look at these answers with a sense of doubt. Can humans really understand animals? Through a picture? They can ask animal questions?

I took a chance to interview Yi Lin with some burning questions. Read the full disclosure in my blogpost!

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Community Stories

Aon’s Happy Tales: Kyloalmightypoo

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This article was brought to you by Aon Happy Tails.

Our pawpals’ love is boundless; our love for them unwavering. We want our furry friends to be at their safest and happiest, and this rings especially true for Denise and Jon, a couple looking to do better to protect their little Maltipoo, Kylo. 

A fated encounter

Denise’s journey as a pawrent began with Sasha, a Mini Schnauzer and best friend throughout her youth. When Sasha passed on in March 2021, Denise and Jon were devastated. The months that followed saw the couple visiting pet shops from time to time, looking at the cute puppies to ease the yearning they felt for Sasha.

Denise and Jon made their rounds at the store one day, and the Maltipoo who would later be known as Kylo was out of his pen and roaming about. An instant connection, Kylo made a beeline for Denise and made himself comfortable on her lap. “I felt loved instantly,” Denise recounted.

From left to right: Jon and Kylo, Denise and Kara

Kylo, the ace of hearts

Of course, Kylo’s vibrant personality is not exclusive to his family. The boy steals the hearts of all he meets, making them swoon over his charm. Kylo loves his belly rubs and loves receiving attention from everyone around. On most days, the Maltipoo makes frequent demands to do zoomies in the garden and play fetch with his pawrents. When the tempo of the days takes a lull, he is just as content on the couch next to Jon. 

During the weekends, the couple will bring him cruising in the car, and playdates with his equally energetic sister, Kara.

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Left: Kylo excited to go out; Right: Kylo’s playdate with Kara

A necessary safety net

“Our biggest fear as pawrents is definitely [Kylo and Kara] falling sick,” Denise considers the communication barrier with their furbabies, especially how they are unable to vocalise their concerns. “It’s heart-wrenching to see them in pain and discomfort.”.

Denise emphasises the importance of pet insurance for their pets. The promise of a life well-lived with their pawrents means giving them only the best — appropriate dieting, a healthy amount of exercise, and of course, a policy that guards against illnesses.

“In the early days with Sasha, pet insurance was unheard of. Unfortunately, by the time pet insurances were a thing, she could not be covered for her pre-existing conditions.” without a policy that could potentially offset the costs of treatment, Denise and Jon faced a major financial setback. “Who knew a CT scan for your pawpals would be in the thousands?” she lamented.

*Bonus*

If Kylo and Kara could speak hooman for 7 days. What would you say to them/ do with them for that week?

“We’d tell them we love them very much and we’d do anything to ensure they are at their happiest and healthiest. We’d tell them there isn’t a single member of our family who does not love them, and that they bring us so much joy into our lives.

I’d tell them they had a big sister Sasha, who taught us what unconditional love is and how we have become better humans through our experience with her. And with all of that, we’d give our all to ensure their forever with us is all worth it!”

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Community Stories

What Is Your Puppy Trying to Tell You?

Just because your puppy can’t speak English, doesn’t mean he or she can’t communicate! There are plenty of ways dogs “talk” to us, from their expressions to their behavior. If you’re a new pet owner, it may be a while before you can accurately read your pup’s body language. But before too long, as your relationship grows, so will your understanding.

It’s important to understand what your dog is trying to “say” for many reasons. After all, your dog might be trying to tell you something critical, like the fact that they’re feeling anxious or scared or sick. Also, strengthening the bond between you and your pup also makes it easier to train out undesired behaviors and teach them new tricks.

Body Language in Dogs: A Breakdown

Some aspects of your puppy’s body language might be obvious, like a frisky play bow or nervous growl. But other signs are a little more subtle.

Here is a head-to-tail breakdown of what your dog’s body language is trying to tell you.

The Ears

Your dog’s ears are for more than hearing! Looking at a dog’s ears is a great way to figure out how they’re feeling. If your dog’s ears are perky, that means they’re alert. This could mean they’re in an extra playful mood, or maybe they’ve recently noticed an unfamiliar neighbor walking in front of your house.

When dogs feel nervous or threatened, their ears will flatten against their head. The flatter the ears, the more scared your dog is feeling. Even though the shape and look of a puppy’s ears differ from breed to breed, pinning their ears back is usually a sign of anxiety, nerves, or anger.

And then there’s the “in-between” stage. If your puppy’s ears are relaxed and flopping around, you can assume your dog is feeling very comfortable.

Image source: Conger Design on Pixabay

The Eyes

We all know it’s hard not to get lost in those puppy dog eyes! But what exactly can you learn from studying your puppy’s eyes? When dogs feel alert or even aggressive, their eyes will grow wider and the pupils might even dilate. If your dog’s eyes are looking squinty, on the other hand, they’re probably feeling happy.

Sometimes, your puppy might even show the whites of their eyes—picture a “side eye” glance. If this happens, your dog is probably feeling very distressed.

In addition to looking at the shape of your puppy’s eyes, you should think about how you approach eye contact too. Just like with most humans, regular eye contact helps build trust. Looking into someone’s eyes when they’re speaking can signify respect and show the speaker you are listening. Don’t overdo it with your dog, though. Your puppy will appreciate some eye contact, but keep in mind that for some dogs, extended eye contact—especially if you’re not drinking—can come off as threatening. This might make your dog feel uneasy or even aggressive.

The Mouth

The most obvious way to learn what your dog is thinking is to listen to their voice. Growling typically signifies aggression or fear. If your dog starts whining, he or she probably wants something—either treats, attention, or a potty break.

And then there’s barking! Determining what your dog’s bark means usually isn’t difficult. Low and loud barks, which usually sound mean, mean your dog is feeling aggressive or threatened. Short, high-pitched barks can be a sign of a frisky or playful mood.

In addition to listening to the noises your puppy makes with their mouth, you can also look at how many teeth are showing. If your dog is casually showing off a few teeth (think of a puppy smile!), they’re probably feeling happy and relaxed. If your dog is baring ALL of their teeth, however, they might be feeling quite threatened.

Image source: angel1238812 on Pixabay

The Back

Have you ever heard someone say that a dog’s hackles are raised? This phrase means the fur on a dog’s back is standing up. This happens when a canine feels particularly scared, stressed, or angry. It’s more noticeable on short-haired dogs, but most dogs show this behavior when they feel uneasy. 

Pay attention if you see your puppy’s hackles raised. That telltale line of fur down their back might be telling you that a stranger is approaching, or that your dog saw an unfamiliar animal in the yard.

The Tail

It’s easy to assume that a wagging tail signifies a happy dog. But did you know this isn’t always the case? Your puppy might also wag their tail if they’re feeling uncomfortable or scared. 

To figure out if what you’re seeing is a nervous or happy wag, look at the speed and direction of your puppy’s tail. If your dog’s tail is moving slowly or pointing toward the ground, your pup probably feels scared. If the tail is perky, moving quickly, and pointing toward the ceiling, that’s usually a sign of a happy or playful mood.

Look at the Whole Picture

Of course, you can’t just look at one individual body part and assume you know exactly what your puppy is thinking. To really understand what kind of mood they’re in, put all of the individual cues together and consider the environment your dog is in. Are they at home or somewhere new? Are there new people or animals around?

By taking into consideration your dog’s body language and all of the surrounding context clues, it will be easy to determine when your dog needs something from you.

What could be causing your dog to feel uneasy? In social situations, such as walking in a public park, your dog might feel put off by the behavior of other people or animals. Your puppy might also try to tell you when they’re feeling sick or uncomfortable. Common ailments in puppies, from flea bites to heartworm disease, usually result in unusual behaviors or side effects that pet owners may pick up on.

The more you pay attention, the better equipped you’ll be to help your puppy stay safe, happy, and healthy.

Image source: Jarmoluk on Pixabay