Pepper as he was aptly named was a really feisty, independent and intelligent little devil. Born into this world in a dingy construction site, he seeked greener pastures by daily crossing the bridge from the construction site and sitting at the bus stop opposite the site !
Though his antics may seem endearing, we were really worried about his daily routine and his ease and innocence with mankind. All it would take would be a single complaint from an irate member of the public and he would be wiped out from this earth, just another statistic in the never ending cycle of culling...
And so we endeavoured to find him a foster home where he could be safe temporarily, but he was such a bundle of energy that the many families that came to view him felt they could not handle him.
And when Aline came along, we thought it was going to be the same old story … Environment wise, hers was ideal, as she had a compound for Pepper to run his heart out, but more importantly was whether the family could handle and accept him. And so discussions ensued and after much hesitation on our part and much persuasion on their part, Pepper went to the Poh family.
The few months that followed were apprehensive ones as they reported Pepper eating their plants and attempting to eat their fish, barking at their neighbours … fortunately, the family were patient and tolerant and with time and training, Pepper calmed down and became the protector and darling of the family.
In a year and more, Pepper has matured into a handsome and majestic canine with very distinct husky markings and is very affectionate and people friendly. The family loves him a great deal and he has been a bundle of joy to them.
To see his transformation from a street dog to a family pet is indeed heartwarming and we hope there would be more people like Aline and her family who would care for their dog like they would their family !