Mum, Dad, my brother Michael: everyone in the family got more affection from our ridgeback-staffie cross. And guess whose bed she used to poo on…
I think the tone was set when Ella threw up over me on the way back from the Dogs Trust. She was three months old, rolling around on the back seat between me and my twin brother, Michael (we’d just turned seven), and wasn’t enjoying her first trip in a car. She could have been sick anywhere – over the seat, over the floor – but for some reason she decided to climb on to me first.
It was the start of a beautiful but strangely one-sided friendship. Ella, a ridgeback-staffie cross, was the perfect dog: playful, energetic, naughty and tolerant. She would let us poke and prod her without complaint, turn her ears inside-out or dress her up in T-shirts or the thick woollen poncho my Greek Cypriot grandma knitted her for the British winter. And she was endlessly loving, at least to the other members of the family. Me? Too often it was as if I didn’t exist. If Michael and I were sitting on the sofa, she’d bound up to him. If I came home after a day out with my dad, he was the one she’d jump at. If I tried to take her for a walk by myself, she’d drag her feet and insist that I fetch my brother.
To add insult to injury, about once a year she would do a poo in the house. Not just anywhere, though: she’d climb the stairs to my room and leave it in a neat pile on top of my bed.
I can’t pretend I wasn’t offended by Ella’s attitude – I loved her just as much as anyone. But it took me a while to realise that in her eyes we were both bitches fighting for our place in the pack. I read that dogs are 98.8% wolf, even yappy little chihuahuas. Ella was a definite she-wolf and my mother (she who opened the tin of dog food every night) was the undisputed alpha female. Ella could handle that fact, but she didn’t want to be the omega female. That was me.
Working out the reasons for Ella’s lack of sisterhood, understanding that her indifference was atavistic and not just casual, didn’t make me any less jealous of my brother, who always took great pleasure in the fact that Ella seemed to prefer him. But I resigned myself to the situation. And then one day (happy ending, anyone?) everything changed. I must have been 16 or 17, we’d been away for a fortnight in France, and when we got back it was me she ran up to first, whining and twisting with pleasure at seeing me again. After that it was like all those years of competition had never happened. We were best friends for ever, or at least for the couple of years she had left. Ella finally loved me.
“Milestone Moments: Celebrating Our Furry Friend’s 12th Birthday with Love and Gratitude”
Today is a remarkable day for us as we celebrate our furry friend’s 12th birthday. We are overflowing with love, happiness, and thankfulness as we look back on the wonderful journey we’ve shared so far. We invite you to join us in commemorating this special occasion and creating unforgettable moments with our beloved dog.
Our dog has been an endless source of joy and unconditional love since he came into our lives as a cute little pup. He has now become an indispensable part of our family, providing constant companionship and support through every triumph and setback we faced. His devoted loyalty and gentle demeanor have profoundly touched our hearts and souls beyond words.
As we mark our furry friend’s milestone 12th birthday, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the bond we’ve formed with him. Our dog has brought us endless joy, from his playful antics to his calming presence by our side. Whether it’s a long walk in the park or snuggles on the couch, every moment spent with him is precious and unforgettable.
As we reminisce about his puppy days and all the milestones he’s achieved, we’re reminded of the cherished memories we’ve created together. Watching him grow from a tiny ball of energy to a wise and loving companion has been a privilege. We can’t help but feel lucky to have him in our lives and to celebrate his special day with him.
Let’s show our four-legged friend all the love and attention he deserves on this special occasion. Let’s indulge him with his favorite treats, plan a playdate with his furry buddies, and fill the air with laughter and wagging tails. We’ll capture these priceless moments on camera to ensure this birthday becomes a memory we’ll always cherish.
Let’s take a moment to mark our furry friend’s 12th birthday and show appreciation for the undeniable happiness and unwavering love that he has brought into our lives. Our dog is more than just a pet; he’s a cherished member of our family who has enriched each day with his presence. Today, we wish him good health, abundant joy, and countless more years of shared adventures.
Happy 12th birthday to our faithful and beloved pup! We’re grateful for your unending love and companionship. Here’s to another year of wagging tails, cozy belly rubs, and treasured memories created together.
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