“As soon as I open the gate, they jump on me,” David told FMT Lifestyle, adding affectionately that Puma sometimes leaves a big stain on his shirt!
It’s a reaction that only a dog can give – one that instantly makes a person feel loved and missed in a way that’s hard to describe.
David lived with his family until about three and a half years ago, during which he formed a close bond with the canines. Now, he returns home every fortnight and it’s obvious the two know how to show him that he’s been missed.
Each dog, David revealed, has a unique personality. Describing their contrasting yet endearing traits, he shared with a smile: “Bobby is like a very energetic child, and he really craves attention.
“Puma is very calm, mellow, loving, sweet and gentle,” added the 43-year-old quality control manager.
Seven-year-old Puma and four-year-old Bobby have been with the family since they were puppies.
Puma, David shared, was adopted from a friend who was fostering four puppies. Fun fact: all the foster puppies were named after shoe brands!
After some convincing, David managed to get his mother on board with adopting one and she chose Puma, an adorable puppy with shiny black fur.
As for Bobby, it was David’s brother who approached their mother about adopting him from a friend.
The name Bobby, he added, was chosen by his niece. “My mom had told her about the dogs we had when I was growing up. And one of those dogs was Bobby.
“My mum often spoke about how smart Bobby was. He was also given the special privilege of living inside the house while the other dogs stayed in the compound, simply because he was smaller. Everyone liked Bobby,” said David.
And after hearing all these stories, his niece was adamant that the new puppy should be named Bobby too!
Both pups, he shared, were the result of accidental pregnancies. Although they were lucky enough to find a forever home with his family, David often reflects on the fate of other strays.
In fact, he recently participated in an ultramarathon to raise funds for Trap-Neuter-Release-Manage (TNRM) Malaysia, and succeeded in his quest of raising RM120,000 to fund the neutering and spaying of 400 stray cats – even exceeding his goal!
His canines, David revealed, share a friendly relationship. “Sometimes, I worry that Bobby is too rough when he plays with Puma. But she is fine with him. She doesn’t complain or get too mad!” said David.
The duo shares a mutual dislike of cats and birds, and a common love for food – especially chicken!
Although Puma is perfectly fine with baths, Bobby quickly scoots off when he realises it’s time for one. And while Bobby is afraid of fireworks, Puma remains unfazed.
“They bring me a lot of joy and happiness. Every time I see them, I feel instantly happy. Even if I am having a bad day, there’s always a sense of positivity when they’re around.
“They have so much love to give and I wish more people could experience that pure, unconditional love,” he concluded.
This article was written by Sheela Vijayan @ FMT Lifestyle. Read more pet stories here.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR PET: FMT Lifestyle readers are invited to send in pictures (landscape format) and a short video (if any) of their furry, scaly or feathery friends to [email protected]. Don’t forget to include details like your pet’s name, age, breed and a short story about them.