My Furry Brothers & Sisters: A Lifetime of Memories with My Dogs

I’ve always loved animals, especially dogs. Growing up surrounded by them, they weren’t just pets; they were my brothers and sisters. Even though many of them have passed away, I still miss them every day and can recall every single one of their names.

The Early Years: Tub and Dodo

The first dog I ever knew was Tub. He was a big dog my family owned since before I was even born. Being only 1 or 2 years old at the time, I didn’t play with him much. One day, I noticed he was gone and asked my grandpa where he was. He told me Tub had passed away of old age. At that age, I didn’t cry; I just felt a quiet sense of “oh… okay.”

Then there was Dodo, a friendly and playful Thai breed. He was great friends with Gigi (whom I’ll mention later) and would always jump for joy when I got home from school. I still feel a deep sense of regret when I think of him; my mom used to tell me he was “dirty,” so I didn’t interact with him as much as I should have. When he passed, I didn’t cry then, but I carry that regret with me now.

Gigi and Mama

Next was Gigi, a Beagle my cousin (whom I call my sister) brought home. He was a cute black-and-white dog who loved sitting by my dad’s side during his coffee breaks. Gigi had a persistent ear odor that no amount of bathing or vet visits could fix. I still remember the time my uncle found Gigi being ganged up on by stray dogs-he was so furious he almost took matters into his own hands!

Then came Mama (named after the instant noodle brand), a mix between a Thai Bangkaew and a Golden Retriever. He wasn’t the friendliest with me, but I loved him regardless. When he passed away, I didn’t cry much, but the house felt emptier without him.

The Bangkaew Duo: Kaipalo and Kaitom

While Gigi and Mama were still around, we got Kaipalo and Kaitom, two playful Thai Bangkaews. Kaipalo was Gigi’s buddy, while Kaitom stuck with Mama.

Kaipalo was a “hugger”-he loved being carried even after he weighed over 10 kg. In 2017, after a brief illness, I found him lying still and frozen. The feeling of his stiff body is a sensation I can still feel today. Kaitom, on the other hand, hated being carried but loved being petted. He once bit me on the belly but looked so guilty afterward, as if he were trying to apologize. I accepted his “apology,” and he never bit me again until he passed in 2019.

The Current Pack: From Kaidown to Mhee Kao

Later, I welcomed three more: Buta (a Pomeranian), Kaidown (a Shih Tzu), Kimji (French Bulldog) and Panda (a Shih Tzu mix).

Kaidown was the first female dog I had ever owned, and she was a total sweetheart. Whenever I sat on my bed, she would always come to rest her head on my lap. Sadly, she passed away in 2023. Kimji also left us last year (2025); despite his tough appearance, he was one of the most playful dogs I’ve ever known.

The final member of the family is Mhee Kao (White Noodles), an energetic female Jack Russell. She is pure lightning! When she’s let loose, she runs so fast I can’t catch her.

Even though they have their occasional scuffles, Buta, Panda, and Mhee Kao are a family. They remind me every day that no matter how many I’ve lost, the bond I share with them is forever.