Ask someone about their impression of German Shepherds and they would probably answer: “Intelligent, loyal, and protective of their owners.” Well, Theresa de Silva will tell you her pet dog Zowie is all of these and more.
Even if Zowie is 13 and has slowed down considerably, she has proven herself to be a good, good girl to Theresa and her family. The idea that Zowie wasn’t Theresa’s first choice all those years ago seems so far-fetched now.
“I actually met with this breeder to pick up a pup named Pedro. But the breeder then told me he was going to downsize, and asked me to take in Pedro’s half-sibling Zowie as well,” the 62-year-old recalled.
That was how Theresa went home with not one, but two puppers!
She soon observed that Zowie was a gentle and passive dog – traits that became even more noticeable when Pedro passed away unexpectedly a few years later, and poor Zowie grew depressed.
Figuring it might do Zowie good to have a companion, Theresa eventually brought home a new four-legged family member, Closeau.
It initially took some time for Zowie to warm up to the mini Schnauzer, who had to be kept in a cage until the German Shepherd could grow accustomed to his presence.
“Closeau would always walk over to Zowie and try to get her to play with him,” Theresa recalled. “I think over time he cheered her up significantly with his persistence.”
Today, Zowie is often seen being entertained – or having to put up with – the antics of Closeau and his fellow mini Schnauzer, Pixie.
Theresa also lifted Zowie’s spirits up by bringing her on long walks, which is one of the pooch’s absolute favourite activities.
However, this is sometimes hindered by Zowie’s hip dysplasia, a common condition in dogs that results in the loosening of the hip joints, leading to dysfunction and pain.
“I give her doses of glucosamine for it, and have my veterinarian on call when things get bad for her,” Theresa told FMT. “Despite that, she still enjoys her walks with me, but she won’t push herself and will stop when it hurts.”
A major plus point for Theresa is that Zowie is not a fussy eater. The sweet girl enjoys meat in her diet, though her human is careful to control her food intake.
“She can’t put on too much weight or it would exert extra pressure on her joints and trigger her condition,” Theresa explained.
As with most pets, Zowie is treated as a valued family member, as proven by her large and comfortable bed in the living room, which she absolutely loves.
And while she is an intelligent hound, “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks”, Theresa said with a laugh, adding: “We did have a trainer’s help long ago, and thanks to him, she has been very obedient ever since.”
As Zowie ages, Theresa simply wants to ensure she is as comfortable as possible, and be there for her until the end of her journey.
However, don’t let those puppy eyes fool you, as the old girl is a certified “barbecued-meat thief”.
“If we are busy chatting with friends, she’d steal it off the table when we look away. Sausages are another favourite of hers as well!”
This article was written by Toon Kit Yi. Read more pet stories here.
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