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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?”
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 atthe 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!
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!”
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.
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.
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.
I am an only child. My life was dead set on staying ahead of the curve through tuition and enrichment classes. The days felt long and mundane. Before long, I began to yearn for a companion I could come home to. A companion who would pull me from these cold, dull greys.
On my seventh birthday, my mom drew the curtains to the bright morning sun. She said something about taking me to lunch with her friends, so I paid her no mind and followed her.
Perhaps it was then that I would learn something my textbooks could never teach me.
I remember hearing the pitter-patter of tiny feet scrambling behind the door. I remember tugging my mother’s blouse in anticipation, in anxiety, overwhelmed by the opportunity presented before me. Mother’s friend has a pet dog who had just birthed a litter of puppies and was looking to give these kids new, loving homes. Who could’ve known? Not me, that’s for sure.
So began the warm days with my new Silky Terrier pup, Bubi. The journey back home with Bubi was mixed with glee and uncertainty, but I was resolute in giving her my share of forever.
Our Journey Together So far
Years later, Bubi and I have grown and matured as individuals joined at the hip. Come hell or high water, I knew I could count on her to be my little emotional support Bubi, and she could always lean on me no matter what.
At 10 years old (around 60 in dog years), Bubi started developing tumours around her belly, a concerning discovery for the Yang household. We hurriedly sought medical advice at the nearest veterinary clinic, fingers crossed and praying the tumours were benign.
My vet braced us for the worst — the tumour could be easily removed surgically, but there’s a high chance Bubi (an elderly dog) might not wake up after being put under anaesthesia. Fear gripped us all. It would be an immediate fix, but the risk of our dear Bubi not waking up… and her condition was still stable…
We decided to hold off on the surgery.
It happened in the middle of class. I was preparing for my O’Levels at school when my phone buzzed. Granddad was frantic. Said that Bubi seemed very weak, that pus had begun to leak from her urinary tract. He was on the way to the vet, and I should remain calm until the next call. But how could I? My best friend is at death’s door, her health is in critical condition and I might not have another chance to see my beloved Bubi. How could I not panic?
Mustering what little strength I had, I rushed to the clinic. The hallway outside the operating room was tight and narrow, and the cold, stale air almost seemed to drain the life out of me. I prayed and prayed for Bubi to walk out of there like the little rockstar she is, face full of joy to see us as she wags her tail. Which is exactly what happened. Our trooper greeted us spirited as ever; my prayer was answered.
That day made it painfully clear that the days I have left with her are precious, and that every moment spent with her must be held close and cherished.
Months flew by and her tumour began to re-emerge despite countless measures to keep her health in tip-top condition. We immediately went ahead with surgery; we already knew how the alternative went. While Bubi recovered very well from the anaesthetic, cleaning her wound proved to be an unforeseen challenge. My mother and I were afraid of causing more discomfort for Bubi, but pulled through and took turns dressing her wounds. We wanted Bubi to know that we will always be by her side and that we could be relied on when the going gets tough. My fear of losing Bubi still crept up on me from time to time, as I would find myself checking on her — the rise and fall of her chest, and sigh that came from each breath she released. It weighs me emotionally and mentally, but it is one I must no doubt carry to the end of our journey.
Bubi Post-Surgery
Time will not come between us
As Bubi ages, I receive a lot of “Oh she doesn’t have much time left”, “Have fun with her while she is still here”, and most upsettingly, “Why do you still have to buy her things? She might leave anytime soon”. Every receipt of these comments leaves me despairing over the inevitable I refuse to look at. These hollow remarks, these unwanted reminders that only stings senior pet owners like me, telling us what we already know — our pets will be leaving us behind soon.
I would rather drown that negativity and have it bring me down.
Bubi may be old, but she is family. She is my family, and she is loved and treasured in this household. Not because of how little time I have left with her, but in spite of it. It took a lot in me to disregard these comments, and I am not one to tell people off for it. The thought of mortality and loss is immensely heart-wrenching. Some might choose to avert their eyes from the gaze of an inevitable separation. In my moments of weakness, I still let that pain grasp me (albeit ever-so-gently) that the inevitable still ought to be faced head-on. Let us stay strong for our pets and help them live out an amazing life.
“We owe it to our pets to walk the whole journey of life beside them.”
Just because your pet is old does not mean that you should love them any less. Every mark and wrinkle testament to the memories you have made together, proof of the time spent growing up by each other’s side. As they age and become less vocal, start paying attention to their actions — that will be their new ‘language’.
As humans, we step out of our homes each day, exploring the world family both nuclear and found. When we come back to rest, our pets never fail to be there, a purr, a bark, and nothing but innocent ecstasy to welcome us home. We are all they will ever know. Their world, their universe, their every day and every moment. It’s us — their family.
I’d like to believe, no— I want to believe, that when our pets cross those pearly gates, they will find their way back to us in another form. I want to believe that when the extremely heart-breaking time comes for Bubi, she too will find her way back to me. Treasure your pets and love them regardless of age, we owe it to them to walk the whole journey of life beside them.
A Letter to Bubi:
Thank you for growing up with me and loving me unconditionally. Through the toughest of hurdles I had to go through, I could always count on you to be there for me whenever I got back home, greeting me with your excited barks and tail wags. My heart always rests easy with you by my side. I am so incredibly fortunate to be your sister and watch your growth from a young puppy. Thank you for teaching me patience and compassion.
I remember staying up late watching “A Dog’s Journey” with you by my side sleeping and unaware of where the plot will take us. The movie came to an end, the emotions came in waves, and I hugged you so tight because to me, you are my Bailey. The movie followed a dog who would always return to its former owner, no matter how many lifetimes it took and no matter what circumstances stood between them. The harsh truth of our inevitable separation cuts deep, but please find your way back to me every time. I promise that I will be there for you throughout all your lives.
As your eyes begin to cloud, I pray that you can still see us and smile. As your paws start aging and bones start weakening, I pray that you still have enough strength to go down for walks. As your fur begins to grey, I pray to have more days with you. As your barks get softer, I pray that you will continue being your bubbly self and full of personality.
Thank you for being the overprotective sister I never had. The only sibling I have ever known. The love I have for you will forever be etched deep in my heart and remain with me for a lifetime.
