Odie's Story

Hardly any drama about Odie's life. Just the pre-requisite story of how Odie became a part of our family.

Our stepdad's friend gave us a puppy when I was 13. He was dominantly a Shih Tzu mixed with other breeds I didn't bother to ask. At the time, I just wanted a puppy, and we lovingly named him Godzilla.

Godzilla's last photo

He was a medium-sized furball who loved hugging our legs, licking our hands, and just making us melt with his crazy antics. He was generally sweet, cuddly, and chill. Ten years later, on July 16, 2012, my sister found Godzilla frozen in an awkward position in the front yard a little past midnight. We didn't anymore ask the cause of his demise, we just took it as it was, and said goodbye. I still clearly remember that night, and the morning when he was buried. Remembering it still brings tears to my eyes. After all, he was our first ever pet who stayed with us for that long, and my biggest regret was not spending time with him on his last day. The entire household shed lots of tears for Godzilla. Even neighbors and our former househelp who took great care of him cried when they learned the news.

At the time, hearing our neighbors' dogs barking was painful. Our home became cold and quiet, and my siblings and I felt that there's a need to fill a void.

I was all set on getting a pure-bred Shih Tzu. I was all about furry dogs until my brother became vocal about getting a Beagle. He even presented me loads of YouTube videos and convinced the family that we are capable of handling and caring for a Beagle. Less hairy, crazy, ADD-nosed happy hyper dog? YES! I would love to raise that baby! 

We went to Tiendesitas to try holding Beagles, but I didn't want any animal from there. Sure, we buy supplies in Tiende, but I was very hesitant about buying those thin, sick-looking puppies. I looked (still online) for a reputable breeder who showed us photos of his 8-week old Beagle litter. Love at first sight on Male #2, who had a very prominent mask. I knew he would be the perfect baby to bring vibrance back into this home. 

Odie at 8 weeks, when we could carry him with one hand.

He cried the first two nights, probably missing his litter mates, but he very easily adapted to our environment, and learned the "sit" command on his third day here at home! He was, and still is, very VERY hungry for adventure, sniffing and eating almost everything in sight. His attention span is also terribly short. He would fetch a tennis ball one out of five times, because the ball would land near a bush which he'd suddenly find interesting, and because sometimes, a butterfly would go near him. It's crazy!

I can't deny that we still miss our little Godzilla, and I hope he's having lots of fun in doggie heaven. My sister and I even say goodbye to him at his grave whenever we'd leave the house! However, we have also been enjoying the company of Odie immensely. He's added so much happiness in this home, and is taking pride in being the baby of the bunch.