Eli came to me in the most unexpected ways, after the Singapore COVID lockdown, when I suddenly found myself single again. As work had converted to working out of my home, minus a partner who had issues with owning a dog, I decided it was the perfect time to fulfil my lifelong dream of having a best friend, who sticks with you through the thick and thin, the good and the bad, takes all your crap and loves you nevertheless.

It was the lifestyle of spending lazy evenings in front of the TV with a puppy cosying at my feet or on my lap. Going for long, nature walks with a dog who would explore the most remote trails with you, giving you his loyalty and love, and adores you unconditionally, 24 by 7.

No standoffs, no cold wars, no judgment, no condemnation, no yelling, no smashing, no stealing, no lies, no physical violence except for playful nips on your sleeves and hands. 

In Dec 2022, a friend of mine sent me pictures of a little pup that her son had bought from Switzerland to breed in Singapore. He had started a kennel of papillons, and was looking to grow the pup into a champion. My friend brought him over to my place for a few visits and I instantly connected with his insatiable appetite for curiosity, independence – and food. At that time, I was looking to own a yorkshire terrier, and thought papillons were too pretty for my liking, and that their coat would be impossible to manage. After a few meetings with Eli, my innate connection with him grew into adoration and when my friend asked if I would like to adopt Eli with some contractual clause allowing her son to groom and bring him for competitions, I agreed. 

Since then its just been a wonderful journey of love, joy, rewards, bonding, and friendship that’s incredible and filled with surprise, wonder and mutual reliance each day.