During my time in India, my immense love for dogs has become apparent. These few months have made me realize how much I care for these sentient beings. Despite all the warnings given to us about the dangers of petting dogs, I did not listen. Throughout the program, I would give all my love to the dogs I met. My program leaders would watch disapprovingly, and my peers would poke fun at how I would most likely adopt all the dogs I see. There is something special about these dogs. They are not trained to walk beside you, yet they have made great company on my hikes or walks around town. They will sit with you, or lay by you as if they are your best friend. They are not just looking for food, because sometimes I try feeding them but they are too busy wagging their tails and wanting to be pet. These dogs have the power to brighten my day, and provide a unique form of love. They have been there during my worst days. It is an amazing feeling for a dog to be excited to see you. I have formed a unique bond with these dogs. They know me, and they seem happy to see me, just as I am happy to see them.

The dogs of India have formed their own sense of community. It is interesting to see how many groups of dogs live in their own territories, and rarely enter each other’s area. Yet with me, the dogs will walk and cross several places where they are “not supposed to be”. During my time in India, I have been surrounded by love. 

 

 -Shani