THEY aren’t called “Man’s Best Friend” for nothing: Dogs are some of the most loving, loyal and kind creatures one will ever get to encounter in his lifetime.
Having a pet dog is a huge responsibility but it’s a life-changing and highly rewarding experience. For “Dog Appreciation Day,” we asked some of our readers to tell us about how their furry friends made an impact in their lives.
For all the dog lovers out there, this one is for you.
Elniño del Rosario, Law student and entrepreneur | Pet: Kylo Ren, five-month-old pug
“I was never an animal guy until we adopted Kylo Ren, who brought an important change in my life. He has given me new responsibilities like sleeping early to match his body clock, taking him out to our yard when nature calls and playing with him for exercise. It’s pretty much true that having dogs is like having kids that don’t talk—you really need to have patience. I honestly can’t choose a single moment when this fur baby of ours changed my life because every day with him is an adventure full of surprises and lessons. I just find it amazing how a little four-legged creature can change a human being’s life.”
Rejzl Anne Awit (left), Lawyer and PR firm managing partner | Pets: Skippy, six-year-old Shih-Poo; Dior, two-year-old Golden Retriever; Bulgogi, five-month-old English bulldog
“SKIPPY was given to us by a family friend. We weren’t dog lovers back then but Skippy touched our lives in so many ways and ultimately, changed our perspective about dogs. Having all three of them, most especially during this quarantine period, has helped me cope better. I can’t imagine going through the past five months without them.”
Marie Elizabeth Carloman, Sales and marketing executive | Pet: Whitney, nine-year-old Aspin
“I wasn’t the type of person who was fond of adopting strays but something about Whitney changed that. Whitney was a stray—scared, unsheltered and defenseless—so my sister decided to welcome her into our humble abode. To be honest, I have never had a dog as grateful as Whitney. She loves to rest on her favorite chair, play with her toys and get belly rubs. Whitney taught me to show compassion and help animals who are in need. She is truly an angel and I am forever blessed to be her owner.”
Karen Ello, Freelance content writer | Pet: Enzo, four-month-old pitbull-black labrador mix
“I’ve only had Enzo for two months, so there haven’t been any life-changing experiences or moments yet. Although I have learned a lesson or two from having Enzo and being home 24/7 with the rest of our pets, after being away most of the time for almost five years. Having a pet is an active choice, and it is not something to be taken lightly. It’s a ‘round-the-clock’ responsibility that requires a lot of effort, quality time, care, love, patience and a firm hand. The toughest part has been being firm on Enzo and training him to obey and listen, but he’s been a good sport so far—and his attention-hungry attitude melts everyone’s hearts.”
Paul Ansit, BPO supervisor | Pets: Fifo, one-year-old Shih Tzu; Dobby, five-month-old Chow Chow; Lily, four-month-old Shih Tzu
“Having all three of them changed my life. I first got Fifo, while Dobby and Lily are recent additions to the family. I go on morning walks with them, and even coffee dates too! My dogs help me see things more positively, especially during this pandemic. With them by my side, I see more reason to hope for better days to come. When Fifo, Dobby and Lily came into my life, there was this friendship and unshakeable love that blossomed and I’ll hold that in my heart forever.”