A dog is said to be a true companion, a loyal friend and a complete stress buster. I can vouch for this fact as my life completely changed six years ago when I was gifted my first puppy- a Basset Hound!
On my birthday at midnight, in a cute basket, a three-month-old black, white and brown puppy looks at me with his droopy eyes, longing for affection. As I go to pick him up and cuddle him, a loud bark comes my way. Startled, I move behind, completely taken aback. I feed him some biscuits and water and everything is wiped out in a minute. He dirties the entire living room and continues being snappy and angry. I wasn’t sure if I had made the right decision by demanding a puppy for my birthday.
Days passed by and I didn’t see a change in temperament, very skeptical I insisted on returning him. Thank god for my sister who insisted on keeping him. With a lot of patience, expert help and perseverance, we saw the change! As months passed I saw him transform into the cutest and most loving dog - Copper.
A lot of people ask if the name comes from his colouring, but I say no and narrate this story. My dad, who is not of fond of dogs, was not very pleased to see a puppy running around the house. My dad, an enthusiastic businessman deals in, and loves, the metal copper. So we assumed that naming my baby ‘copper’ will make my dad a little more sensitive towards him. Six years later I can happily say our strategy did work out!
Copper and I share a very special bond. As the alarm goes off every morning, he licks and nudges me till I wake up and take him to the garden to play with his friends, on returning from the garden he positions himself right outside the kitchen, awaiting his delicious breakfast. On days when I’m tired or stressed, a 15 minute walk with Copper or a fetch session is all it takes to bring back the smile on my face. On returning home from a late night, he waits anxiously so that he can guide me to my room, so I can tuck him into my bed, hug him and sleep.
Copper may be a task when he’s unwell, but who doesn’t like that extra attention! He may come back looking like a skunk in the monsoon but it gives me sheer happiness in cleaning him up and spending that extra time with him. He may follow me around when I return from a holiday and mess up my stuff while I unpack, but it’s a great feeling to know he missed me more than anyone.
I always thought a dog needs humans more, but honestly it’s the other way round, I definitely need Copper more than he needs me!