Happy New Year to You

Dodo,

How are you? Min Min used to shout out this very statement everytime I came back home and I still do that now. I think you can hear me right?

Today is the fifth day of Chinese New Year. All of us went onboard a cruise to celebrate the new year and I hope you enjoyed the Yu Sheng, the trip down Phuket and all the good food available. I know you are right beside us as we count down to the brand new year (at least in the context of the lunar calendar), a year which we will all try to be stronger and braver.

To be honest, Min min can remember how you look like vividly...thanks to the hundreds of pictures you have taken over the years; but I am not sure how long I can remember your bark or how your fur felt beneath my hands. I know this happens due to the passing of time but I am afraid that one day I might forget and you must forgive me when that day comes.


This year will not be easy but I know I can always talk to you...

Happy New Year!

Missing you,

Min

To dear Dodo 3: CNY

Dear mei-mei,

How have you been? Jie-jie hopes you are happy where you are.

Does mei-mei know that Chinese New Year is just 2 days away? Tomorrow will be “chu xi” already. This year is the year of the Ox, the year Nana is born in. At home, we have hung up some new year decorations and have also bought all our new year goodies. Don’t worry, we will surely leave some goodies for you, greedy.

Your mummy bought a Bakerzin strawberry cake for you when she went to Jurong Point yesterday. It is in the fridge right now, and the box has your name “Domin” written on it. I think she is a bit worried that the witch or papa might eat it. You will get the cake tonight or tomorrow morning. Lucky girl! :)

Jie-jie wishes mei-mei happiness and good health in the ox year. I will ensure you get your ang pows as always!

Loving and missing you,
Jie-jie

List of places Dodo has been to

1. Vivocity – her favourite place!
2. Bukit Batok Macdonald’s and CC
3. West Mall Shopping Centre
4. West Coast Park
5. East Coast Park
6. Bishan Park
7. Orchard
8. Chinatown
9. Sentosa
10. Holland Village
11. Dempsey Road
12. Robertson Quay
13. Clarke Quay
14. NUS – twice for her family members' graduation
15. Eastpoint Mall
16. Pasir Ris Farmway
17. Railway Mall
18. Chalets

Replacement?

Since Domin left about 2 weeks ago, I have had quite a few people asking me if I will get another dog.

Even as far back as 3 to 4 years ago, there was a friend who asked me to get a new puppy, although Domin was still well and healthy (but already senior) then. The plan was that Domin can teach the puppy her tricks so I won’t be too sad when she eventually goes one day. I replied him more than once that Domin would be so upset if we did that – she’s just not the sort who is pally with other dogs.

Sometimes, I wonder… are dogs like handbags? Handphones? Laptops? Clothes? Cars? That you can just replace with a new one when they are worn out, depleted, lost or gone?

We know of a married childless couple in their 50s who has kept 2 dogs for 20 over years. Recently one of their dogs passed away and the wife was devastated and has been eating and sleeping extremely poorly. Surely this pain is comparable to the pain of losing one’s child?

There is no married childless couple in my family. Nonetheless, Domin was her Mummy’s little girl, my little sister and the baby of the family.

I don’t think any person in a right mind will ask someone whose child has just passed on if he/she will have another child. I do wish this logic and sensitivity can be extended to dog owners who have just lost their beloved canine companions, their four-legged member of the family.

I don’t know if and when there will be a new addition to the family. I think fate might have her own ideas.

Domin's jie-jie

24 Jan 1017

This week, I have been returning from work to a home without Domin.

It sure feels very different. Something is definitely missing and not quite right. The home is simply incomplete.

There is no one who looks at me with big round eyes when I step into the house. There is no one I can talk to and play with before I take my shower, after dinner, in-between commercial breaks and anytime I feel bored. There is no one I can cuddle and hug and kiss. There is also no one I can talk to about my frustrations and unhappiness.

I have not been in the best of moods this week. I am sad and grouchy and tearful.

It still hurts when I look at her pictures, when I think about her and the times we have spent together, when I know that we will not be able to spend any more moments together. I still cry at times – at home or on the bus to and from work, when I look at her pictures and think of what I could have done differently perhaps.

3 nights ago, a very good friend told me that she does not think that the pain of losing someone we love will ever go away. But she also believes that time will heal the wounds.

Domin's jie-jie

When I travel

When I travel, I will always call home. Apart from speaking to my mum, I will always speak to Domin.

According to my mum, when she holds the phone against Domin’s ears, Domin’s ears will prick, eyes will widen and she will be quietly listening away. Of course, I am not able to see her reaction. However, I have no doubts that Domin knows that it is jie-jie at the other end of the line, jie-jie who is calling from thousands of miles away to talk to her and ask her how her day has been.

When I travel, I am always on the lookout for interesting things to buy for Domin.

In Melbourne, I bought her kangaroo jerky and lots of other snacks made from kangeroo meat. In Hong Kong, I bought her snacks and a red stripped pullover. In Taipei, I bought her a very pretty oriental-styled dark blue coat with white fur trimmings. In Bangkok, I bought her a white-and-beige jumper which she always wears to sleep. Anything that I think is suitable for Domin, I will always want to get it for her.

If only things did not have to change and can remain as they always have been.

Domin's jie-jie

12 reasons why dogs make good companions

1. They are always sweet, 24/7

2. They are 100% loyal

3. You will always win in arguments

4. You will never piss them off, no matter what you do or don’t do

5. You do not need to kiss and make up or say sorry, even if you are in the wrong

6. They will not find you fat or ugly or old

7. They do not say “whatever” or “it’s just me”

8. They will not hesitate to save you from dangers of whatever sort – you and everything about you will always come first

9. They will not complain about the food you cook

10. They will walk with you, every step of the way, if only you allow them to

11. You will always have their full attention – distractions such as soccer or games or boobs just do not work

12. They will break your heart only once – when they leave for Rainbow Bridge

18 Jan 1857

This week has been very different.

I took leave to stay at home – the first time in my six years of working life. My usual practice was to take leave only when I was going on holidays.

I spent the entire week at home and writing – thinking and writing about my life with Domin. I wrote whenever I can, from the time I woke up in the morning till the end of the day. I just wanted to put as much memories as I possibly can into writing.

I wrote about the day I met her, wrote about her days as a puppy and a young adult, wrote about her changes as she entered seniorhood, wrote about our times together, wrote about the day we bade farewell, wrote about my grief at losing her…

There are so much beautiful memories she has left for us all. We would sit around the table and look at all her pretty pictures and videos. We would think about her, talk about her and talk to her, as if things never changed. And we would alternate between laughing and crying.

Tomorrow I will be back to work. But the writing and the memories will continue. That’s my promise to you, Domin.

Domin’s jie-jie

09-01-2009

9 January 2009, Friday – a day forever etched on my memory, the day I lost my best little friend.

The day started off like all other days. I got out of bed, showered and got dressed for work. In office, I checked my emails, picked up calls, did my report, attended meetings. Just before lunchtime, I got a call from my aunts, saying that they have decided to discharge Dodo. I was all for it as I knew Dodo did not like to be on her own at the hospital.

During lunchtime, I made my way to Daiso at Plaza Singapura. I bought some pets’ absorbent sheets for Dodo and had lunch there. I was tempted to take half a day off and be home earlier to keep her company in the afternoon. However, as I had already planned to take the whole of the following week off to keep her company and bring her to all her favourite places, I needed some time to hand over my work to my colleagues. In the end, I decided against the half day off on Friday afternoon. It turned out to be one great regret.

I went back to office after lunch and cleared up some work. I also proceeded to brief my colleagues on what they needed to cover for me the following week while I will be away. At around 4+ pm, my aunt called. She said in between sobs that Dodo was dying. My heart dropped and I was shocked. This was too sudden – something I did not expect at all. I quickly called my sister to tell her the bad news.

I left office and rushed to the taxi stand. I was already crying. There were 2 cabs waiting but as my sister was not there yet, I did not get into the cabs. A few passengers came along and they got into the cabs. When my sister finally arrived at the taxi stand, there were no empty cabs! I panicked and cried harder as I was so scared we would miss seeing Dodo for the last time. We called for a cab.

After a very long few minutes, a random cab came along and we just hopped in. We just could not afford to wait even a second longer. I told the driver that we were in a hurry and I think he did try his best to drive as fast as possible. In the cab, I called home. I wanted to speak to my Dodo. I told Dodo I was on the way home, I told her to wait for her jie-jie.

At home, Dodo’s eyes were rolling backwards and she seemed to have difficulties breathing. She looked so different from the Dodo as I know her. It was clear she was in a lot of discomfort and perhaps pain. I was heart-broken and all of us were crying. We were hesitant on whether to bring her back to the vet again where she will be subject to all the intensive and invasive treatments (which we knows she absolutely hates) or to let her remain at home.

My sis dialled for a cab. Before the cab came, Dodo had left. She had made her decision and she was not going to go back to the vet. It was 1735hrs. We bade farewell and kissed her. All these while, she was lying in her mummy’s arms, as she always does. She was loved by all of us.

Dodo did wait for her jie-jie. I think she knew how much it meant to both of us. She was my little sister and forever my little sweetheart. Thank you, precious.

I started the day, thinking it was like any other day. I ended the day, knowing it was like no other day. My best friend was no longer with me and life would never be the same again.

Dodo's jie-jie

Domin's bark

Domin loved to bark since the first day I know her. She would bark when we scold her, bark at neighbours as they walk by, bark at strangers who’s at our door, bark when she wants food, bark when she’s being locked out, bark when she’s unhappy, bark when she’s being blown-dry. The list could go on.

She barked so much that I really found her barking to be a nuisance. Sometimes we would hit her with bundled up newspapers to get her to stop her incessant barking. At one time, I was reading on the various ways to stop dogs from barking. It appears that there is this extreme operation that can be done on the vocal cords of a very noisy dog so that the dog will not able to make noise when it barks in the future…hmmm. Of course, we never got down to that and Domin continued her barking spree.

In her seniorhood days, she was still barking away, though to a much lesser extent. I think I must have told her countless times over the years not to bark at neighbours as that was a rude thing to do. Alas, it was to no avail – all my words have fallen on deaf ears.

I think her barking stopped in the past year or so. I can’t quite seem to recall her barking much. Think she could be too tired out from all the coughing and vomitting. Poor girl.

I never thought I would miss Domin's bark but I do. The house is almost too quiet.

Domin's jie-jie

18 Jan 0104, Sunday

I am usually busy on Sundays.

If we are not too lazy when we wake up, my mum, my sister (witch) and myself would bring Domin to the Macdonald’s at Bukit Batok Community Centre. We would order a hamburger for her – plain of course, no salt and pepper to be added on top of what is already in the beef patty. We knew it was unhealthy but well, we thought she was already quite senior and heck, might as well let her enjoy while she can! Sometimes, we would also order french fries – unsalted too, of course. She simply loved fast food, just like a little child.

She would bark loudly while we separate the patty from the bread. As we tear the patty into small pieces for her and waited for them to cool, she would yelp continuously until she finally got to eat the patty. Patience was definitely not one of her virtues and she hated having to wait for her food. She would finish the patty but turn her nose up at the bread. A few times, we tried to mix the patty with the bread but she was able to pick out the patty from the bread! Even if she had accidentally taken some bread into her mouth, she would spit it out once she realizes she has been ‘cheated’.

After eating her hamburger and drinking some water (provided by Macdonald’s in their small white cup), she would pee on the grass patch just in front of Macdonald’s. That was her modus operandi.

We would then take a lift to the 4th floor of the Community Centre. We would bring her to run or walk along the corridor back and forth a few times. Thereafter we would just sit at the bench and let her roam around on her own. Sometimes, we would go to the playground that was just beside the lift lobby. After a while, she would always prefer to go back to her pram – she was one lazy girl.

Thereafter we would proceed home. On the way home, I would usually stop by NTUC / “Shop & Save” to buy some chicken meat and/or pork for her. In recent months, I bought more pork than chicken. Chicken meat, according to my mum (I am not sure how true it is), is bad for cough and Domin has been coughing for quite a while.

Once home, I would rest for a short while then proceed to wash her ears. She hated having her ears washed. She would shriek or whine or whimper while I was cleaning out the dirt in her smelly ears. Her left ear is particularly prone to infection and always dirty and swollen while the right ear is always pink and healthy. After the ear wash, without fail, she will walk over to pee on the newspapers (yes, pee again).

Then it would be bath time. I would always wet her neck first. I have read from books many years ago that the neck should always be wet first – if the body was wet first, the lice/mites/fleas would move from the wet body to the dry neck and head area. Throughout the years, I have always followed this advice though I am sure Domin is free of all these parasites. After lathering her, I would leave the lather on for a few minutes. I have been using this particular brand of ‘orange mango’ shampoo for a while and I love the smell. Thereafter, I would rinse her twice. Since puppy days, she likes to snuggle against my legs during bath time. This and her shaking ensure that I could never be dry after bathing her. After the final rinse, my job was finally done.

The witch would then take over – she was responsible for drying Domin. Whilst she towels and then blow-dry Domin, the witch would always grumble and complain, in typical witch fashion.

As I take my shower, I can always hear the droning sound of the hair-dryer punctuated by Domin’s sharp barks…

This has always been the way I spend my Sundays.

Domin’s jie-jie

A love-hate relationship

When I was 10, Dodo was 1. When she was 10, I was 19.

Those were the growing up years for both of us and I believe teenage angst played a huge part in our relationship then. I wasn’t even particularly fond of her! She would try to nip at my ankles while I would try to hit her with newspapers. No one won. I was nipped while she was hit. But all in all, she was still a friend then.

Growing up was not easy but she made it better as a friend who was always there for a fight which she would not remember in 10 minutes time. Well, those were the days. I grew up and she grew old. Things mellowed between us but we still played rough. Yes, I would twist her ears and yes, I would pull her tail as well. No one did that to her at home and I was the special one. THE sparring partner when she needed to feel she belonged to the wild. It was indeed an incredible journey and the most out of the world love-hate relationship.

Thank you, my friend.

Min Min

17 Jan 1509

My 妹妹 is a good girl.

Sometimes we could be busy with our own things at home and none of us would pay much attention to her.

She would then be left on her own. She could be on the sofa, under the table, under the ironing board, on her own bed, in the living room or in any of the bedrooms. She could be stretching away, dozing, licking her paws or just looking plain bored. Sometimes she would walk around to each bedroom to see exactly what we are busy with.

But she will not disturb us. She will always wait quietly and patiently. She will not bark or insist that we play with her or bring her out. She knows that we will go look for her when we finish what we are doing.

姐姐

Swimming poodle

I read a lot of books on dogs during my teens. I recall the books telling me that poodles are good swimmers and that their fur are usually clipped in such a way in order to protect their heart and vital organs in the cold water.

Domin swam for the first time in her life only after the age of 10. I do think animals are amazing. They are able to do so many things on instinct, without being taught at all.

She can swim but I don’t think she particularly enjoys it. When we brought her swimming in the sea, she would never dare to swim away from us. She would always want to be close to us and sometimes would try to cling onto us. When we brought her swimming in a pool, she would always want to get out of the pool and onto dry ground where we are.

Somehow, I feel she looks a little uncertain and scared when she’s in the water. She’s always relieved whenever we hold onto her or get her out of the water. Maybe she's too small, maybe she started a little too late or maybe it’s too tiring for her aging bones.

I would always laugh at this one particular sight whenever we bring her swimming - her legs would still be moving, as if she’s still in the water paddling away, even though we are already holding her out of the water.

Domin's jie-jie

Little food snatcher

I recall Dodo used to be a highly efficient food snatcher.

If we happened to drop any food on the floor, she would run over in an unbelievably short time and would make off with the food in her mouth. Her reflexes were extremely fast.

At our old place, she would then hide under the king-sized bed where it was difficult to reach her unless we got down on all fours and crawled under the bed. The big bed was her safe haven, and she would be under it enjoying her spoils. Under the big bed on all fours, we were slow and clumsy while she was fast and agile. Most times, she avoided capture.

Even in the few times we ventured under the bed and managed to catch hold of her, it was a challenge trying to remove anything from her jaws. She would growl, bare her teeth and would bite tightly onto the food and simply refuse to let go. Our success rate was dismally low. In the end, I think it got so bad that we just gave up totally.

We were thankful that she was a small dog and hence unable to reach any food on the table without standing on the chairs. As long as we were mindful to move away the chairs whenever there was food on the table, things were ok. I suspected perhaps she was constantly hungry back then due to her high metabolic rate – she was hyper-active till she entered seniorhood.

At our current place, I was relieved we did not have a king-sized bed where she could hide under and was safe from the law and punishment. Somehow, maybe age caught up with her. It became easier to remove food from her jaws. She still resisted but was not as defensive as she used to be. Her reflexes were also slower and she was unable to run as fast. For once, we were able to outrun and corner her.

In recent years, we have not seen the little food snatcher at all. In her place is a wise canine elder who will guide us to the fridge whenever she wants food. A smart girl – she knows that all her favourite snacks are in the fridge and all she has to do is ask (or rather, bark) and wag her little tail.

Dodo's jie-jie

17 Jan 1053

Exactly a week ago today, we brought Domin to Pasir Ris to be cremated. I will always remember that day – Saturday, 10 January 2009. We had opted for solo cremation as we know she does not enjoy the company of other dogs. She always preferred humans to dogs.

She had passed away a day earlier. But we wanted to let her rest one final night in her beloved bed. Her previous 2 nights were spent in the hospital and we knew she probably did not sleep much and must have missed her bed and bolster sorely. So she spent Friday night in her bed hugging her bolster – her bed in her Mummy’s room in the usual spot as it always has been. The only difference was the air-con blowing at her cold body. Her eyes were closed and we wanted so much to think that she was just tired out from all the blood testing, medications and injections she’s had at the hospital and was having a well-deserved rest.

That Saturday morning, we drove her to Pasir Ris. Her Mummy carried her in her bed, with a towel covering her. We saw her go into the furnace, resting peacefully on her mattress and hugging her bolster. Then the furnace door closed. It must be one of the most painful goodbyes ever. It hurts so much to even think about it now.

About 3 hours later, we went back to collect her. She went home with us in an oriental-looking blue-and-white urn. On the urn is a picture of her with a bouquet of red roses, not quite as pretty as she is though.

Domin's jie-jie

16 Jan 1735

There was one period when Dodo loved to be at the door.

She would wait at the door – either standing, sitting or lying down. She could be there for a long time, looking out at the corridor. We knew she was waiting to go out. She loved being out of the house, even if it was just a quick run along the corridor. She would run from one end of the corridor to the other, ears flapping and tail wagging.

Sometimes, we would come home and there she would be, right at the door waiting. She would wag her tail as she sees us walking out of the lift lobby and towards the house. It feels so nice to have someone waiting for us to come home, someone happy to see us reach home.

I miss my little friend.

Dodo's jie-jie

16 Jan 1537

I don’t know what to do with Dodo’s pram.

The pram was one of her favourite belongings, probably only second to her bed. It is still in the living room, as it always has been. The pram is a painful reminder of our loss. And yet, I can’t really bear to remove it. It was after one of her most beloved items and what would she think if she knows I have disposed of it? And even if I want to dispose of it, what is the best option? Give it to someone? Give it to an animal shelter? Throw it away? Or what?

All her grooming items are still sitting in the kitchen cupboard. I don’t quite have the courage to pack away her ear wash, eye wash, brush, scissors etc. To pack away and remove all these would be to acknowledge that she’s really gone, not coming back and never ever going to need all these again, wouldn’t it?

Her clothes are still in the yellow cupboard in the living room, stacked neatly in the transparent box. I am quite tempted to keep them all. After all, they are so pretty and I can remember her as she looks in each one of them.

Dodo's jie-jie

Calendar

Since the second half of last year, I have had the habit of writing on my calendar. Below are the days involving Domin:

17 July 2008 – Domin’s operation on lump (paw)

22 July 2008 – went back to vet to remove bandage

1 August 2008 – went to remove stitches

30 August 2008 – Vivocity to celebrate Domin’s birthday
[I bought her a very pretty kimono dress that day. She looked so adorable in it and we definitely attracted a lot of attention. We had Carls Junior for dinner as that was Dodo’s favourite. Hao and Javen joined us too.]

5 September 2008 – Domin’s birthday
[We did not bring her anywhere]

20 September 2008 – Vivocity to celebrate Shan’s birthday

4 October 2008 – Vivocity to celebrate my birthday
[We had dinner at Carnivore, which no one really enjoys. Dodo waited for us outside.]

22 November 2008 – Dodo cut hair
[It is usually Carol and Shana who bring Dodo for her haircut. This was probably the only time I went along.]

24 November 2008 – Brought Dodo to vet
[I rushed down from work to meet Carol and Shan at James Tan veterinary. They had called to tell me that there was blood and liver-like substances in Domin's poo.]

7 December 2008 – Vivocity to celebrate Mr Tan’s birthday
[We had No Signboard for dinner. Dodo waited for us outside.]

25 December 2008 – Vivocity to celebrate Christmas
[We had No Signboard for dinner again. Dodo waited for us outside.]

26 December 2008 – Brought Dodo to vet
[This is the first time we brought her to the Mount Pleasant vet at Sunset Way. We have been bringing her to see James Tan all along before this.]

7 January 2009 – Dodo admitted to hospital
[Ah min and me rushed down after work. I cried when I saw Dodo. She was facing the inside of the cage and from the way she was standing, she looked so sad. My poor Dodo.]

8 January 2009 – 2nd visit at vet (Dodo angry when we left)
[She was really upset and angry when we left as visiting hours were over. When Carol placed her back into the cage, she breathed very heavily. I really hope she did not think that we had abandoned her.]

9 January 2009 – Dodo gone
[Dodo discharged from hospital. She was happy to be home finally.]

10 January 2009 – Domin’s cremation at Pasir Ris

11 January 2009 – Witch started blog on Dodo

12 January 2009 – Went Jurong East to develop Dodo’s pictures (500+ in all)
[Carol and me went together. We also bought 5 albums. When we reached home, we started packing the photos and sorting them into the various albums. Realised we only needed 3 albums.]

13 January 2009 – Went Jurong East buy Dodo’s photo frame and develop handphone pictures

We would always choose to go to Vivocity as it was a shopping centre where Dodo was allowed. She absolutely loved Vivo (as we usually call it)! The place has so much of her memories. We would do our shopping while her mummy would push her around. Before we go for our dinner, we would buy a burger for her and ensure she’s well fed and full. A hungry Dodo is a noisy Dodo!

We are regulars at the No signboard seafood outlet there. While we have our dinner, she would wait for us patiently outside the restaurant in her pram. We would always request for a table by the glass window so we can keep a lookout on her. The manager, Jack, will always help us to arrange for the table we want. He knows Dodo too!

A pity I can no longer pen any more Vivo trip with Dodo on my calendar.

Dodo's jie-jie

Operations & GA

Dodo had undergone quite a few operations in her lifetime.

The first operation took place many years back. She was probably only around 2 years old. She had hurt my younger sister (who was in primary school then) while at play and my parents were furious. I have to admit she was easily excitable and was not the most gentle of dogs. They wanted to send her away. I cried and cried. This was my precious little dog, my faithful study mate and they want to send her away? What’s going to happen to her? In the end, I sort of won but my parents insisted I had to sterilize her. We were advised that sterilization would make her less excitable and more docile.

So we brought her to the vet for the sterilization operation. We scheduled her operation in the morning as we wanted to bring her back the same evening. That was a mistake. In the evening, when we went to fetch her, she was probably still under the effects of general anaesthesia (GA). We should have let her rest one more night and only brought her back the next morning but we did not know then.

I suspected the nurses roused her from her sleep roughly. I could hear her screaming from inside before I even saw her. She was in a lot of pain and she got aggressive. It was very difficult to carry her as she would try to snap. For a while, we were not able to hold her and she laid on the floor and screamed away. Finally, after some efforts, we managed to somehow bundle her into the car and bring her home.

In the car, she was screaming throughout the way home. When we reached the carpark, her cries were so loud that it actually attracted someone to come over and see what was happening. At home, she hid under a chair and refused to come out. I recalled clearly that her wound looked raw and was still bleeding that night. I felt very sorry to have put her through the pain and misery but that was the agreement with my parents – if I wanted to keep her, we had to sterilize her.

That was her first operation. Her last operation was in July last year – to remove a big lump on her paw. This was the second time she had to remove a lump on her paw.

On 17 July 2008, we brought her to the vet for the operation. She was already 15+ years old and I was worried she would not wake up from the GA. Older dogs are always at much higher risk. Much to our relief, she did. The vet gave us a plastic cone to put around her neck to prevent her from biting off the bandage.

On 22 July, we went back to the clinic to have the bandage removed. Thereafter, my aunt religiously cleaned and cared for her wound everyday. The cone was still around her head to stop her from getting at the stitches (which are now exposed as the bandage had been removed). Somehow, she managed to bite off a couple of stitches. On 1 August, we went back to the vet again to have all the stitches removed. Her wound had recovered beautifully in quite a short time. Well done for a senior dog!

In between the first operation and the last operation, there were other operations. She was always prone to lumps and growths on her body. Once she had this growth on the forehead which grew bigger and bigger. When it started to bleed from her scratching, we went to have it removed. She looked so much prettier after that. A few years ago, her paw had a lump and we had that removed too. She had also undergone a few teeth cleaning / scaling sessions where she needs to be put under GA.

Throughout the years, whenever she was undergoing any operations, I was always concerned that she might end up sleeping forever, as that was a real risk. I would always have to sign an agreement before the vet puts her under GA, saying I would not hold them responsible etc.

Every single time, she never disappoints us – she would wake up from the effects of the GA and recover well and quick. Such a brave and strong girl.

Dodo's jie-jie

16 Jan 1037

I dreamt of Domin when I had an evening nap yesterday. It was the first time I dreamt of her since she left. I dreamt that I had stepped on her little paw. I got so worried that I had hurt her that I woke up immediately. Stepping on her paw is something that we had done before – not intentionally of course. She is a small girl and sometimes can be missed if we are not on the lookout. She would give a sharp cry whenever it happened. In the dream, maybe I woke up before she had the chance to yelp.

There was a moth in our living room on Wednesday night. We don’t usually see moths around much in our flat. We wondered if it was Domin as there is a Chinese belief (according to my family) that departed loved ones would come back to visit in the form of moths. The moth was still there when we went to bed at around 2 am. When I was up at 7am Thursday morning, I went to check on it but it was gone.

I am not hallucinating but there is this piece of tile in the toilet whose shading/pattern looks like a dog, in particular Domin. I only realized that last night. I have since checked a few times – both last night and this morning - and the ‘picture’ is still there. I wonder why we had not noticed it before.

When will I dream of my pretty little girl again?

Domin's jie-jie

To dear Dodo 2

Dear Dodo,

How have you been? It has been almost a week and I am missing you terribly.

Hope Dodo is happy at Rainbow Bridge. Dodo must learn to get along with other dogs ok? All they want is to play with you, not to hurt or bite you. Sometimes they may be over-friendly. If you don’t want to play with them, just bark at them to let them know. Must be a good girl and don’t snarl or bite unnecessarily.

Dodo must remember to drink water after running around or playing. Don’t be dehydrated. And don’t be too greedy. Like jie-jie always say, if you are overweight, it’s not healthy – your heart has to pump extra hard to circulate your blood around your body and your small legs also have to support more weight.

Take care and don't miss us. We will always love you.

Love always,
Jie-jie

Fate

I believe in fate.

We did not stay on a landed plot so I knew big dogs were out for us. Breeds which shed huge amount of fur were also out because both my sister and I have allergic skin and are prone to rashes. In the end, after numerous books, the breed I decided on was toy poodle – small, shed minimally but require regular grooming and supposedly one of the smartest breeds around.

I was more prone towards a girl as according to the books, male dogs are generally more aggressive and territorial, whereas female dogs are generally smaller in size, sweeter in nature and easier to care for. I also decided on white.

Together with my dad and my uncle, we started to go around the different pet shops looking for my female white toy poodle. We went to quite a few pet shops but were not able to find any poodle puppies. Finally we went to this pet shop which has what we wanted! This shop has 3 adorable white toy poodles puppies – 2 girls, 1 boy. However, we did not proceed to buy immediately. My dad told me to go home and think about which one I wanted out of the 3. I eventually decided on the younger female as she looked smaller and cuter though I recalled she was extremely jumpy and exuberant when they let her out of her cage. That was Domin, and like they say, the rest is history.

Sometimes I wonder, had I not set all those criteria – female, white, toy poodle – which breed and which dog might I have ended up with? Had I not insisted on my white toy poodle and perhaps buy a puppy of other breeds at the first few pet shops that we went to, what would things be like today? Had I chosen the other 2 poodle puppies instead of Domin, what would have happened to her?

I am very glad I persisted with my search back then and finally found her and chose her. I think she was possibly waiting for me too.

茫茫人海之中 我们能够相遇 这缘分已经足够

Domin's jie-jie

Family

Dodo is a part of our family. That is without doubt.

Why do some people snigger or laugh it off when we tell them that? Why do they find it so inconceivable that our 4-legged friends can also become family? Is it because they have never loved a dog and been loved by one?

What defines family? To me, a family member is someone so integral to our life and whom we trust whole-heartedly. Someone who will stand by us, rain or shine. Someone who will never abandon us, no matter what happens. Someone we can always rely upon for support unconditionally. Dodo is all of the above.

Dodo takes part in our family celebrations and we will always include her when taking pictures. She is there when we are having our birthday dinners. She is there when we are singing birthday songs and blowing the candles on the cakes. She can’t sing but she sure can yelp very loudly – maybe that is her way of singing. She too gets to celebrate her birthday with her own cake! Like all of us, she will have her birthday song too. She is one big lover of birthday cakes. As dogs can’t consume chocolates, we will always ensure that the birthday cakes we buy (regardless of for which member of the family) are not chocolate flavoured.

She sleeps in our beds whenever she wants, gets birthday presents, gets ang-pow from my parents during Chinese New Year. We have more pictures of her in our hard disk than of any other members of the family. We talk to her, kiss her good-night and say “Morning Dodo” when we wake up. Where possible, we will bring her for Macdonald’s on Sunday. When we go out, we choose to go places that we know Dodo can go and will enjoy.

Her urn now occupies a special spot on the bookshelf. Beside the urn, there are photos of her, her bowl, her water bottle and the food she likes. She is at home with us, always.

Who can say Dodo is not family?

Dodo’s jie-jie

15 Jan 1230

Domin used to be one mean eating machine.

She would eat literally anything. She even swallowed non-food items including paper clips and coins. We would always find a 1-cent coin or 5-cent coin or paper clip(s) in her vomit or poo. There was no way she could have digested these so she would usually vomit them out, always together with some saliva. I could never understand what is so tasty about all the coins and paper clips. It was very lucky her throat and stomach were not damaged by these metal items.

She also loved toilet paper. We had to keep all toilet rolls out of her reach. If we left a roll of toilet paper with her, she would shred it and start eating. A few times, we were careless and we ended up having a whole floor full of shredded toilet paper, and one happy dog sitting in the middle of the white mess chewing and eating away. She would even go after used tissue paper in our dustbins. She would get to them by toppling the bin. She was definitely one smart dog! We always had to be on our guard. I suspect toilet paper and tissue paper can possibly be partially digested and passed out as we don't usually find them in her vomit or poo (unlike those metal items).

She was a great predator of flying moths. Pity to any flying moths which landed on the living room floor. She would run over excitedly, jump on the moth, picked it up in her mouth and start chewing. Usually she would spit it out after a while, by then the moth is dead or almost there. I think there was a couple of times she might have swallowed the moth, either partially or fully. Maybe it is the hunting instinct in her at work – I don’t know but I sure thought it was disgusting. Whenever I see any moth on the floor, I would try to catch hold of her so she would not have a chance to run over and get the moth. It was always a competition between her reflexes and mine whenever there was an unlucky moth on the floor.

I was grateful she did not eat poo then. I have heard of and seen dogs eating their own poo and I think poo ranks above moths in my disgusting rating index.

That was many years ago.

As the years went by, her taste became more and more ‘atas’ (high-class). She became incredibly picky with her food. I think it was partly due to me. I started work in 2002 and started to buy better (read: more expensive) food and pet tidbits for her. Eventually she would turn her nose up at dry food, something which she used to gobble up and beg for in earlier days.

She would no longer be interested in those basic hard chewing bones made from animal hide. She prefers milk bones, apple/spinach/carrot/avocado sticks, chicken strips, dried chicken wrapped around sweet potatoes, dried sausages, hard cheese, soft cheese, chocolates, dried french fries etc. Much as I am not a Japanese food fan, I have to say Domin is one fervent supporter. She loves the fanciful food items that the Japanese came up with and I would religiously buy them for her, whatever she wanted.

She has certainly come a long way since her coins-eating days. The moths no longer hold any attraction for her. Toilet paper have morphed from being food to being just something we use to clean her up after she does her business. She has even rejected some of the Japanese tidbits which are not to her liking.

We will always remember her as one fussy eater =)

Domin’s jie-jie

15 Jan 1051

As she entered seniorhood, Domin underwent some changes.

In her puppyhood up till adulthood days, she was not the most obedient dog. At times she could be quite aggressive and would bare her teeth when we scolded or hit her. She was also extremely hyperactive. For a small dog, she can really sprint. Sometimes when we ran around the house, she would chase after us and nip at our ankles. Both friends of myself and my sister have recalled being chased around the house by Domin when they visited us. That was what a little terror she was back then! Those days seem so far away now. I have to admit I was responsible for not teaching her well in her younger days.

In her seniorhood days, her personality became much sweeter. The aggression was gone. Maybe she had more love, more attention and care. She barely snarled and bite anymore. She would still growl but it was a soft growl to let us know she was unhappy and did not want to do what we wanted her to do. There was no showing of teeth. She became more obedient and received much less scoldings. Whenever we scolded her, she would look very sad and put her head down. There was no more of the ‘barking back’ she used to do.

Also, the look in her eyes became much softer and kinder and she became so much more loving. It was obvious she was also much happier. If we put our hands in front of us, she would spend a long time licking them intently and with so much focus. Maybe licking was her way to show her love for us.

I love her more in her senior years than I ever did before.

Dodo's jie-jie

Letter to Heaven 2

Dodo,

Min Min is missing you. It hurts to think about it. Really.

You were always home when I came back from school, you were always home when I came back from shopping and movies and then you were always home when I came back from work and overseas trips. I came to believe that things will stay like this forever. Well, it was pure denial on my part and I took you for granted. Apologies for that.

Well, throughout these years, many things have changed. From my school to my friends to my lifestyle; but one thing for certain, you were always part of it. Amid all these changes, there was you and I thank you for that.

My heart hurts a little from time to time but do not worry, I will be fine. Because when I look up to the sky, Min Min knows you are just somewhere up there.

Your best playmate,

Min

14 Jan 1839

A while ago, I told Dodo that I will be with her every single step of the journey, no matter how tough it would be.

I am not sure if I have managed to keep my promise.

I was not with her when she was admitted to hospital. I was not around to keep her company during the daytime visiting hours when she was hospitalized. I was only at the vet hospital for about 2 hours at night after ending my work day. I was not there to discharge her from hospital. I was also not at home to keep her company when she finally came back after 2 long unhappy nights at the hospital.

I was not there to catch her when she collapsed in the kitchen. I was not with her in the few hours before she left. Instead, she struggled to hold on while she waited for me to rush home just so we could have that last 10 minutes together.

Maybe even if there’s really Rainbow Bridge, I am not worth waiting for…


Dodo's jie-jie

Lessons from our canine friends

1. Be loyal.

2. When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

3. Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

4. Never pretend to be something you're not.

5. When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.

6. Eat with gusto and enthusiasm.

7. Run, romp, and play daily.

8. Enjoy it when someone wants to rub your tummy.

9. Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

10. When you are happy, dance around and wag your entire body

11. Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride.

12. Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy

13. When it's in your best interest, always practice obedience.

14. Take naps and always stretch before rising.

15. If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

16. Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

17. On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.

18. No matter how often you are criticized, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout. Run right back and make friends.

I did not write the above but had gotten them from the net. The simplicity of a dog’s heart always touches me. I am amazed by how easily they are contented and how little it takes to make their day.

We am grateful to have had the company and teachings of one great little canine friend.

14 Jan 1511

I always thought corpses are cold, scary and morbid. As such, I never wanted to be near one. That is, until last Friday.

There was totally no fear when I touched Dodo’s cold body. I rested my head on her body, then kissed her nose and her forehead and said good night. This is something that I have grown used to doing over the years before I sleep. This is our routine – and it is not going to change just because the body is now cold instead of warm.

She was truly pretty to her last. She still looks so cute and at peace lying in her bed. In the same position she usually is in and holding her small bolster. It’s almost as if she’s just in a deep slumber.

Dodo's jie-jie

14 Jan 1425

Thinking back now, the first 10 years of Domin’s life has not been particularly fantastic or fun for her. She had the boring and unenviable task of studying with me and my sister. While we were in school and our parents were at work, she was home alone most of the time. We seldom brought her out. Once in a while, we will bring her downstairs for a quick walk – that was about it. She peed and pooed on newspapers in the kitchen and we did not feel a need to bring her out of the house much.

I have to admit that I have not been the best of owners. I did not enroll her for obedience classes, I did not bring her for daily walks. No swims in the seas for her, no long walks in the gardens/parks, also not much chance for her to interact and play with other dogs. I felt her subsequent dislike for other dogs was my doing, as I did not give her a chance at a young age to learn to get along with them.

Things took a turn for the better in 2002 when we shifted and stayed with our aunts. They may not have loved her to bits from the start but eventually they did. From 2002 onwards, Domin started to be much happier and she learnt to smile! She had discovered the joys of going out. She ran on the beach, swam in the sea, went with us on trips to Sentosa. She went to Vivocity, Orchard, Chinatown among others. Wherever we can bring her, we try to. She was just too much a part of the family to be left alone at home. I wonder why I had not realized this earlier.

She was such a good girl and we would push her around in her beloved pram. She would sit up in her pram and would always be looking around, ‘kaypoh-ing’ and always curious about what’s going on around her. She would look at the strangers walking by, look at the shops, turn around to look at us sometimes. Maybe she’s thinking, “So this is what I have been missing out for a good part of my life!” It was obvious she was having fun.

While out, she ate food which was very different from what she had at home – Burger King, Macdonalds, her favourite Carls Junior Portobello mushroom burger, chicken rice etc. And she so enjoys her food! Her eyes would be totally fixated on the burger and she would be smacking her lips… such an adorable sight.

Everywhere we go, people would always comment that she looks very cute. Some would even think that she was just a puppy. That was just how young and pretty she looked and we were so terribly proud of her!

I’m glad in the last 6 years of her life, we had brought her along with us on many outings and all of us have had so much fun. I wish we had started earlier but life does not give second chances, does it?


Domin's jie-jie

14 Jan 1201

Dodo came into my life when I was 13.

She was always my faithful study companion throughout my school days. Together, we went through O-levels, A-levels, LLB exams. She would either sit on my lap or in a chair beside me while I study. When exams neared and I was burning midnight oil, she would always be with me right into the wee hours of the night. And sometimes when I am bored of studying and wanted a break, I would rouse her from her sleep and talk to her, regardless of the time. Poor Dodo would then be woken up in the middle of the night and had to listen to whatever nonsense I would be mumbling. Sometimes I would be in a bad mood and would complain to her. At times, I would get jealous of her as I thought it was unfair I had to go through all the exams and stress while all she did was eat, sleep, play at home and I would scold her.

Dodo had to put up with me all through the years until I graduated in 2002, when I was 23. That was 10 long years. So I say, whatever grades I have achieved over the years, I did it with Dodo. We did it together.

Some people may think she did nothing and that she just lay beside me. To these people, I will say “you just don’t understand”. Dodo’s presence was emotional encouragement and that matters a lot to me. I knew I was not alone when everyone else in the house was asleep. I knew I had a faithful friend beside me all the time, a friend who would overcome all hurdles with me.

Thank you Dodo, for being my best study mate during my school days.


Jie-jie

10 Things I miss most about Dodo

1. Her big round eyes – which sparkle when she is pleased or contented or excited! I so miss not being able to look into those eyes anymore.

2. Her leathery nose – can be wet or dry, but always so nice to rub and kiss. I always love to put our faces close and rub our noses together!

3. Her warm tongue on my hands – she licks with such sincerity and fervor at times it’s unbelievable.

4. Her willingness to hear whatever problems we have and look back with such understanding big kind eyes

5. Her warm furry body as she lies in my arms

6. Her little tail – best indication of her mood. Wags furiously when she’s happy, down when she’s upset or frightened (especially after she has been chased by other dogs or during the 7th month of the Lunar calendar).

7. She was our little side-kick – always happy to follow us around the house and ‘calefare’ on what we do

8. ‘Kay-poh’ personality – always likes to see what we have bought home. Will always stick her nose into plastic bags we bring home, if within reach.

9. The sounds she makes – whining/sniffing sounds when she’s being locked out of the bedrooms or she can’t get what she wants, barking when people walk by our door or asking for her dinner, panting when thirsty/tired

10. Her acting skills – she can give such a ‘poor thing’ look that it absolutely melts our heart and we will feel compelled to bring her out, even if we had initially planned not to. Oh, she can pose pretty well for the camera too!

There are just too many to list. So many years together and so much memories. She has left her small paw prints everywhere in the house, and also on all our hearts.

Dodo’s jie-jie

Crying

I think I control my tears pretty well and don’t cry much for a girl. Yet I have one soft spot – pets.

I cried over the death of my pet terrapin when I was in kindergarten. My mother put the body of the dead terrapin in a transparent box and sealed it up (hence became some sort of "terrapin coffin"). I cried when I threw the "terrapin coffin" into the pond in Ang Mo Kio Garden.

I cried over my brown rabbit in primary school. My younger sister had fed Mary with some leaves which had been sprayed with insecticide. My mother (yes, yet again) had to bury the body of the poor rabbit in Ang Mo Kio garden (yes, yet again).

I cried over my ducklings when they grew too big and I had to part with them. I even had names for them – Fifi & Fafa.

I cried when my parents did not allow me to keep the kitten I rescued from the roadside and I had to give it up to SPCA.

I cried over the death of my favourite fish. This was one quirky fish which simply loves raisins. Weird but absolutely true.

I cried when Domin got into some trouble as an adolescent and my parents threatened to send her away. Viola – this was one time crying worked and I won! My parents gave in eventually and she got to stay with us for many more years to come, until last week.

Yet, none of the above could prepare me for the crying I was to do when Domin left last Friday (9 January 2009). I knew she had not been in good health as her visits to the vet had become much more frequent and she had a persistent cough that just would not go away. However, her departure was still sudden and unexpected to me. Surely there was still a distance between ill health and death? I had intended to take a week off to keep her company and bring her to all her favourite places. But as fate would have it, we were not to be given that 1 more week together and it breaks my heart.

Her departure left such a big void in my heart that I don’t know if, and when, it will be filled again. I talk to the air and to the urn containing her ashes. I touch the air spaces where I know her head would usually rest. I even wish for her spirit to come back. A few nights, I sat in the living room waiting…

I can’t bear to pack away her food, her clothes, her shampoo, her brush, her pram, her medicine. I know I should get down to it but I keep on putting it off day after day because it’s just too painful. I feel guilty for eating food which I know she loves. And for those places she loves to go, I will avoid for as long as I possibly can.

And I cry. I know I have to stop crying. I know that I need to let beautiful memories of our times together replace the grief and the sorrow and the crying. I am trying my best.

Domin's jie-jie

13 Jan 2116

I cried when I first read ‘Rainbow Bridge’. I was only in secondary school then and was at SPCA doing some volunteer work. Many years have gone by since then. This time round, more tears flowed when I read the poem again.

It is a poem which has touched me deeply and at the same time, has given me hope. I am very grateful to the author, whoever he/she is, for the poem has let me see the rainbow at the end of the endless tunnel.

I feel comforted in knowing that my dearest Domin is happy and healthy again. We may be apart for now but I know that there will come a day when we will be together again, when I can hold her close in my arms and kiss her little black nose - this brings a smile to my heart.

Death has separated us. But Love will re-unite us.

Love always,
Domin's jie-jie

To all dog owners - The 10 Commandments

From a Dog's Point of View

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Regular separation from you will be painful and can even cause depression. Think before you buy me.

2. Give me time to understand what you want from me don't be impatient, short-tempered or irritable.

3. Place your trust in me and I will always trust you back, respect is earned not given as some sort of inalienable right.

4. Don't be angry with me for long, and don't lock me up as punishment. I am not capable of understanding why I am being locked up. I only know I have been rejected. You have your work, entertainment and friends. I only have you.

5. Talk to me sometimes. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your tone. "You only have to look at my tail" to know that.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget, if that treatment is unjust or bad, it may spoil the special bond between us.

7. Please do not hit me. I cannot hit back, but I can bite and scratch and I don't ever want to feel the need to do that.

8. Before you tell me off me for being uncooperative, obstinate, or lazy, ask yourself if something might be wrong with me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food or I've been out in the sun too long, maybe my heart is getting old and weak, or maybe I'm just dog-tired.

9. Take care of me when I get old. You too will grow old and will also want care, love, and affection.

10. Go with me on difficult journeys. Never say, "I can't bear to watch" or "Let it happen in my absence". Everything is easier for me if you are there. Remember, Irrespective of what you do I will always love you.

Written by,© Stan Rawlinson 1998Dog Behaviourist and Obedience Trainer

There is nothing so pure and strong as the love of a dog for his Master.

Rainbow Bridge

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown

Letter to Heaven

Dodo,

How are you? I hope you are eating and sleeping well, as you always do.

Min Min misses you. It sounds a little unreal, isn't it? For I complain and whine when I have to blow you dry, clear your newspapers and bring you opposite for breakfast. Well, these are wonderful memories for me now though. Your corner even looks a little too clean without your pee.

I came home from work today and was somewhat disappointed that you were not here to welcome me. But I like to think you are just a little sleepy.=)

Love always,
Min Min

12 Jan 2258

We went to Jurong East to develop and then spent hours sorting out all of Dodo’s pictures today. Close to 900 photos – now neatly sorted out in 3 albums.

Dodo will always live on in our memories for as long as we are around.

I am indeed very lucky to have loved and be loved by her. She is such an amazing and funny little girl.

In life or in death, she will always be close to my heart. Nothing will ever change that.

Dodo's jie-jie

Domin's profile

Name:
Tan Domin

Nicknames:
Dodo, Mei-mei, Darling, Pretty, Black nose

Date of Birth:
5 September 1992

Breed:
Toy poodle (lineage from Australia)

Colour:
White (sad to say I have been off-white at certain stages of my life)

Characteristics:
pretty, lazy, greedy, selfish, hyper-active in heydays

Likes:
eat, sleep on bed/pram, bark at both neighbours and strangers (in particular garung kuni men), posing for pictures, licking paws

Dislikes:
dirty soiled newspapers, having my ears washed, having my fur blown dry by witch, eating medicine

Family members:
Carol – mummy who takes good care of me and keeps me clean and white (aka roommate number 1)
Shana – nana who grew to love me over the years (aka roommate number 2)
Liying – jie-jie who brought me home and always buy tidbits for me
Ah min – witch, who likes to twist my ears but I think she loves and cares for me too
Ah poh – papa who used to beat me a lot in younger days
Alice & Connie – helps to clear my newspapers and also cooks dinner for me

Friends:
1 stray cat who likes to visit me and teaches me how to walk behind the sofa so I can play hide-and-seek! I don't like other dogs

Favourite belongings:
harness & leash, bed, pram

Favourite food:
Carls junior Portobello mushroom burger, crispy pork floss, famous amos cookies

Favourite places:
Vivocity, Bukit Batok Macdonald’s

12 Jan 1025

It is Monday morning 1025am

I survived a weekend without Dodo.

It was an extremely quiet weekend – no fun, no laughter, just lots of tears and sadness in the house.

I know she’s gone and is never coming back again. But I find myself still looking at her favourite spots in the house, hoping against hope to find her there. And everytime I realize she’s not, sadness and disppointment fills my heart.


Dodo’s Jie-jie

To dear Dodo

Dear precious Domin,

Thank you for being in my life for the last 16 years, for being my best little friend, my study mate, my companion and my little sister.

The amount of happiness and laughter you have brought us over the years is what others who are not part of the family can never imagine. For that, I am extremely grateful. Yes, I do wish that you could stay with us for longer but I also know Dodo must have her reasons for going.

I can remember quite clearly the day we met. It was December 1992 and you were around 2 to 2 ½ months and so incredibly cute. The lady at the pet shop brought both you and your brother out for me and papa to see. You peed and shitted and were spacked on the butt before she placed you two back into cage. After we went home, I asked papa to call back the shop to keep you for me as I wanted a little girl. And the next day I brought you home! That must truly be one of the best and happiest days of my life. I have wanted a dog for years and years on end and you were my dream come true! My very own precious little puppy! We placed you in a cupboard box in the car. During the drive home, you jumped out of the box. I did not know quite sure how I should carry you then. After all, I was all but 13 then so you can’t blame me!

I cannot imagine a life without you. And yet, I now have to face it. The road ahead looks tough but I will try my best to be brave. Somehow I know life is just not going to be the same without you around, without my little furry little mei-mei with that little black nose that I so love to touch and kiss.

All of us are heart-broken, especially your mummy. You may see us crying now but don’t ever regret your decision to go. Whatever decision Dodo makes, Jie-jie will always support. But give us some time, and we will stop crying and be stronger.

Jie-jie hope you are in a place where there is no pain and illness, where Dodo is young and hyper-active again and can have endless fun and plentiful energy for running around and barking at strangers!

Mei-mei will always have a special place in my heart that no others can ever hope to replace, humans or dogs.


Love always
Jie-jie

She is family

This weekend is unlike any others. It feels just that little different.

I lost someone very dear and someone whom I have grown from hating to loving. My little sister.

She is gone but she will alive in memories and in this blog.

Thank you for waiting and for giving me a chance to say goodbye.

Min Min