Life with a pet

Ahead of National Pet Day on April 11, NT BUZZ asks pet parents how their furry companions have become an integral part of their family

Honestly, I don’t like calling them ‘pets’—they’re my babies. Like many from our generation, I’d pick pets over kids any day. I’ll hesitate before buying something for myself, but never when it comes to my two cats. I love spoiling them—they’re such a big part of my life. What truly sets them apart is how they sense my emotions. When I’m feeling low, they quietly sit by me, giving comfort without a word. That kind of unconditional love is rare and special.”

Sharlaine Menezes, Margao

We had two pets—one of them is no longer with us. I remember once we were all out late after a function, and my mom called me saying, “Order food for them, you can eat outside.” My dad’s a pure vegetarian, but he still goes to the chicken shop, cooks for them, makes sure they eat well, and even washes all the utensils after. Twice a day, without fail—he’s their personal chef. And whenever there’s a festival or special occasion, our pets are part of everything—from the rituals and prayers to the ‘prasad’.”

Sudesh Salgaonkar, Porvorim

My dog has become an emotional pillar for me. She senses when I’m feeling low and will quietly cuddle up or stay close. Sometimes, I’ll be lying on the floor listening to music, and she’ll join me—it’s one of those moments that really deepens our bond. Even when I’m practicing music, she’s always around. She’s been by my side through so much that I can’t imagine life without her.”

Kiyara Da Costa, Nuvem

My home feels like a mini animal kingdom. We share it with hens and chicks, two dogs, a cat, a parrot, a cockatoo, and an aquarium of fish—including hunter and mini sharks. I grew up learning to care for the hens from my grandmother. This included collecting eggs, feeding them, and securing the coop each evening. Our parrot, Mittoo, mimics my tone, often leaving the family wondering who’s speaking. The cockatoo whistles every time I enter. Sundays mean beach trips with our dogs, Lassy and Popsy, who drag us into their playful chaos. Kitty, our newest member, mostly eats and naps, while I feed the fish every morning. Amid busy routines, it’s the birds’ chirping, soft meows, fluttering hens, and joyful barks that bring our quiet home to life.”

Austin Fernandes (8), Anjuna

Mykaa, our pet dog, came into our lives because my wife and son are passionate about animals. I wasn’t really into pets, but I decided to go along with it. Though it felt unfamiliar at first, everything changed once she came home. Over time, she grew on me and is now very much part of our family—we treat her like our baby girl. We even postponed travel plans until she was old enough to stay at a boarder. She’s well-fed with boneless chicken and a variety of fish, and we take her for walks twice a day, which also works as good exercise for us. She has a collection of toys that we add to on special occasions, and her birthday is always a celebration. Mykaa has brought us so much joy, peace, and laughter.”

Roger Figueiredo, Chicalim

My dog was the best birthday gift I’ve ever received. For nearly 12 years, he’s been my constant companion—always by my side, whether I’m moving around the house or doing chores. His joy lies in simply being near me, and if we’re apart, he cries until we’re together again. In his younger days, he was my alarm clock. Over time, he’s become my biggest comfort, especially during tough times. Sensitive to conflict, he steps in gently during arguments—sometimes even leading someone away by softly holding their hand in his mouth. When I’m unwell, he just curls up at my feet.

Resha Naik, Camurlim

I still remember the day my colleague placed a nervous, three-month-old puppy with blue eyes in my car. We were coming back from Rustic Farm in Valpoi—that’s how she got the name Rusty. My husband and I love her like our own child. It’s amazing how dogs understand not just our words but also our actions. Rusty often knows what we’re going to do next, and her face shows exactly how she feels. She has been the best way to relax and brings so much comfort. She’s also my son’s best friend—they share all their treats. When I think about our time with her, I realise how much dogs teach us—patience, love without condition, enjoying simple things, and most of all, being loyal. Not a single day goes by when Rusty doesn’t welcome me with a wagging tail after work.”

Anju Pai Bhale, Porvorim

My day begins and ends with my dog’s cheerful “woofffff”—his way of saying, “Let’s go for our walks!” He knows when I’m stepping out without him and gives me the saddest look before I even leave.  And when I’m back, that wagging tail and happy jumps instantly lift my mood. We play, share snacks, i.e. I share and he devours, and sometimes just sit together in silence. He’s my baby brother, my parents’ youngest, and the most pampered. Every Raksha Bandhan, I tie a ‘rakhi’ on his paw—he’s my little protector. At night, he waits for everyone to be home, staying up beside whoever’s still awake like a silent little guard. He has to be involved in everything—folding clothes, cutting vegetables, or just sitting near me while I work. He’s not just a dog—he’s love in its purest form.”

Durva Pagi, Canacona

I’ve been a cat person since childhood, but I love all animals, even my Kombu, the rooster. Our mornings begin with Kombu’s crowing, followed by meows from our cats, especially Tiger. We also have a 17-year-old Portuguese Hound called Rusky. At night, the cats sleep on my bed. Caring for pets means vet visits, grooming, keeping them safe, and even looking for them when they go missing, with help from kind neighbours. Even after moving to the U.K. recently, I feel connected to them. Their affection was and still is a comfort to my family. I once had 25 cats, rescued, abandoned, or born at home. Losing Bushu, my favourite rescue, after I moved was heartbreaking. Now, I feed squirrels in the park, watch foxes in the backyard, and pet animals when I can. I hope to have one again someday. Everyone should experience having a pet at least once—you won’t regret it.”

Susan Bright, from Nagoa and currently based in the U.K.