Over the years, Tuffey, my cousin’s retriever, has become closer to her than anyone else in her family. He acts like a fierce bodyguard, protecting her from everyone, especially men who might not have good intentions. Tuffey brings her comfort, making her laugh and feel less lonely. One day, when we visited my cousin’s house in Panchkula, a golden Labrador named Tuffey charged at us when we rang the doorbell. He seemed aggressive, so we suggested my cousin tie him up. But she smiled and said, “I’ve never tied my adorable Tuffey.”
As we entered the house, Tuffey sniffed us and wagged his tail. He soon calmed down and allowed us to relax. When my cousin sat on one side of the bed, Tuffey jumped up and lay down next to her. My cousin explained, “It’s his space; he sleeps here at night.” While she went to the kitchen to get snacks, Tuffey watched us closely, his eyes sparkling as he listened to our quiet conversations and giggles.
ALSO READ: Discover the unique places in India where Raavan is worshipped on Vijaya Dashami
ALSO READ: NASA mission to create first human-made meteor shower: turning imagination into reality
Despite not being a dog lover, I found myself changing my mind about Tuffey on the way back home. My cousin faced many challenges after losing her husband when their son was only two years old. To get her son’s job, her mother-in-law turned against her, leaving her alone. Luckily, good neighbors helped her fight a legal battle, and she got the job.
Her son later brought home Tuffey, the Labrador puppy, even though she wasn’t keen on it. Tragically, a road accident took her son away. Now, Tuffey is all she has left, a reminder of her son and a loyal companion who supports her through every hardship. Their connection shows that true companionship needs no words, just love and loyalty.