Gone to the dogs!

I have written a couple of posts ("Birthday Wish - Dog Parks" and "Dogs and Condos - Never the twain shall meet") highlighting the challenges faced by dogs and their owners in Malaysia. But, the latest situation has really gone to the dogs (taken a turn for the worse, gone badly wrong).

We were horrified to read of a new ruling that Negeri Sembilan, (a state south of where we live) has recently implemented. Dog owners in Nilai must now get written permission from their neighbours to keep the animals in their homes. How unfair is that? Although we are thankful that our local municipal does not impose such ridiculous laws, we empathize with our fellow canines and their humans who are affected by it. Hey, we have no objections to rulings promoting responsible dog ownership, but this is a blatant discrimination against dogs! Since the ruling has come out, people have written in to the press protesting against this law. We don't know if this law will change, or if more municipals will adopt this. If this continues, we may actually be reverting to "It's a dog's life" of the 16th century definition! It's a sad day indeed.

Beagle Identity Crisis (Fighting Like Cats and Dogs)

I'm a lil' concerned about who I am. I know I am supposed to be a beagle. My MKA certificate confirms that. When I look into the mirror, I see the features and markings of a tri-colour beagle. My keen sense of smell and stubborn trait jives with most other beagles. So, why am I facing an identity crisis?

As you know, traditionally, beagles are hunting hounds. We accompany our humans who would be on horseback as we embark on a hunt for foxes, hares or other game animals. Herein lies my problem. I freak out at horses! Here's what happened.

During the year end break, my humans & I ventured into the hills for a hike. I was going my own merry way, nose to the ground, happily taking in the scents of the tropical jungle. Then suddenly, my peaceful jaunt was shattered when I heard loud clomping.

"What on earth is that???" I caught sight of strange-looking beasts on the trail on top of us. From where I was standing, they look like giants (I am a medium-sized dog after all). As it turns out, a couple of horseback riders were using the trails. Naturally, I went into protective mode, barking frantically, at a very high pitch at this new threat. My humans had to hold me back! "Let me at em..." Unfortunately, they didn't have the presence of mind to take photos or video of my encounter with the horses so I can show this to you... Instead, they gave the lame excuse of trying to hold me back from scaring the horses. Go figure!

After the very eventful walk, my humans pondered over my strong reaction to the horses. Despite my beagle ancestry which has a long-standing relationship with horses, they concluded that I am a product of my environment. After all, I was raised in the city. Loud engine noises from whizzing cars and trucks don't bother me one bit. Noisy honking is like water off a duck's back. But horses and me are like cats and dogs. (Note: The complete idiom is "Fighting like cats and dogs". However, I have used literary liberty with this phrase since everyone should know what this means). Actually, the horse couldn't give two hoots about me. On the other hand, I am so irked by the horses for what my humans deem as no reason at all. So, what do you guys think? Am I facing a beagle identity crisis? Or am I just a product my environment?

It's a Dog's Life

Time sure flies. It's now the 7th day of 2009! This year, I've decided to do a series of posts on doggie phrases. There are quite a few out there. In fact, one of my earliers posts last year was on "Underdog".

To kick off the year, I've picked the title of my blog "It's a Dog's Life". Interestingly enough, there are 2 schools of thought as to the meaning of this phrase. The older definition which dates back to the 16th century- "a miserable, unhappy existence" refers to the terrible life of working dogs during this era. The second meaning, which seems to have evolved over time is in direct contrast to the first - "A life of indolence where the individual may do as he or she pleases, just like a pampered dog." Isn't it strange how an idiom can have such disparate meanings.

A quick search on the internet will reveal a long list of websites selling treats for the beloved pooches. Obviously, among the dog lovers circle, the second meaning is the chosen one. That's why I chose this phrase as the title of my blog. Whilst, I am far from a pampered dog and can't really do as I please (my humans are firm believers in boundaries), I lead an existence that some would say is privileged, when compared to the pooches of the 16th century. Warm bed, regular meals, treats, toys, pats, hugs, walks and lots of love. I'm also certain that dogs of those days didn't get Christmas presents like many of us did! I for one, am glad to live in this era. What about you?

Woohoo! Christmas pressies from Aunty Evie who just came back from Oz. Doggies chocs and beef jerky... Wait a minute, what is this mysterious package from Sydney and Crystal?

I love surprises...Let it rip...

Thanks mum for lending a hand with the packaging!

Yummy! What can I say? It's a dog's life!