Let me take you on a journey that began in late November 2021. A female Indian street dog, who I often and fed, gave birth to five puppies. She had chosen a dry drain along a quiet lane for her babies, a place she thought was safe. I did what I could to provide her with some comfort, arranging a little shelter for her.
One day, a local resident noticed one of the puppies, a striking brownish-black one with expressive eyes, and decided to take him home. It was her first time caring for a dog, and unfortunately, she was unprepared. The puppy soon fell ill, and in her panic, she abandoned him back in the same drain. Meanwhile, the other puppies mysteriously vanished, likely taken away and left elsewhere by locals. I searched everywhere but could not find them.
When I saw the abandoned puppy, he was vomiting and was quiet unwell. My heart broke as I rushed him to the veterinary clinic. The diagnosis was grim: Canine Parvo, a highly contagious and deadly virus. The vet told me the little pup’s chances were slim without immediate care. So, we began his treatment right away. I remember carrying him to the clinic every day in a small cardboard box. Though sick, he seemed to enjoy the walks, peeking out of the box as we made our way to the vet. Against all odds, he slowly recovered.
But just as I thought he had made it, tragedy struck again. In January 2021, during a foggy morning, the puppy wandered out of his small shelter onto the road and was hit by a vehicle. He lay there in the middle of the road, struggling for his life, until some kind-hearted youngsters passing by rushed him to the vet. When I found out, I was devastated. He was still weak from his battle with Parvo, and now he had to fight again.
I took him to a senior vet for X-rays, fearing a fracture, but fortunately, his injuries were less severe than expected. Still, the next few days were critical. I brought him into my home to keep a close eye on him and care for him. Watching his determination to survive, I decided to name him “Hope.”
Day by day, he grew stronger. I had initially planned to find him a forever home, but as time passed, I realized that Hope had already found his home—with me. He was no longer just a foster; he was family.
Our bond deepened as the days turned into months. Hope was playful and mischievous, always finding ways to brighten my days. He loved chewing on my earphones and playing with his favourite ball. However, life still had some tests for him in store. One day, he fell ill again and was diagnosed with tick fever. It was another long and challenging recovery, but Hope pulled through, as always.
Hope was not just a pet; he became my therapy dog. I often fostered other community animals, and Hope welcomed every one of them with love and warmth. He formed strong bonds with them, offering comfort and companionship. He was a true emotional provider, not just to me but to every foster animal who came to our home.
Despite his cheerful nature, Hope faced another life-altering challenge. One evening, while sitting by my side, he suddenly had a seizure. It was terrifying to watch him convulse, hitting the floor repeatedly. The vet explained that it could be a result of the earlier accident, and eventually, he was diagnosed with epilepsy. Hope endured countless seizures over the next four years, each one more painful to witness than the last but through it all, his resilience never wavered.
Hope had a big appetite for life—and food! He loved raagi chapati, banana chips, veggies, and even our cheat meals. The sound of a pressure cooker whistle would send his ears straight up in anticipation. His love for food and his playful antics made him the heart of our home.
Over the years, Hope taught me invaluable lessons. His strength in the face of adversity showed me the power of perseverance and love. There were times when I felt overwhelmed,frustrated, sad, or just helpless, but watching him fight his battles inspired me to keep going. He helped me grow as a person, teaching me the importance of patience and resilience.
By the end of November 2024, Hope’s health began to decline. His seizures became more frequent and severe, and I could see his body was growing tired. He had lost his vision too, partially. On December 13th, he suffered a fatal seizure that left him critically weak. Late night of December 14th, I lost my boy Hoppy Hope forever.
As I reflect on our journey, I cannot help but notice the bittersweet irony: I lost him almost at the same time I had found him four years earlier. It breaks my heart for the boy who fought so bravely, who stood tall against every challenge life threw at him. I feel so shattered and helpless from within.
Hope was more than a dog—he was a shining light, a symbol of resilience and unconditional love. Though, he is no longer with me in physical form, his spirit lives on. Every memory of him fills my heart with gratitude and love.
Thank you, Hope, for everything you gave me. You were my light, my strength, and my greatest teacher. You will always be a part of me, my brave boy.
I OWE EVERYTHING TO YOU, PARTNER. UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN…..
About the Author –
Bharti Bhatia, devoted a major part of his career to the BPO Industry. He has been a part of the coperate sector for more than 10 years, rescuing and helping animals.