Chosen Blessing

A BEAUTIFUL BEGINNING AND STORY OF HOW CHOSEN WAS “CHOSEN”

In the heart of Singapore, Elsa, a compassionate daughter and the main breadwinner for her family, embarked on a remarkable journey of love and commitment by adopting Chosen, one of Mercylight’s senior dogs. Living with her parents and elder sister, Elsa has always been a dog lover, deeply touched by the plight of abandoned animals. Her story with Chosen is one of perseverance, dedication, and the undeniable bond between a human and her furry companion.

How did you decide to adopt a dog, and what motivated you to choose an older dog like Chosen?

I love dogs. I am one of those who couldn’t watch movies where the dog dies. About one to two years ago, I was doing research on which shelter to donate to. During this search, I stumbled upon Mercylight's website and came across Chosen's profile. Chosen had been adopted as a puppy but was returned and had since spent nine long years in the shelter. I was moved by Chosen's story and knew immediately I had to adopt her. After reading an article in the Straits Times about dogs who spend their lives waiting to be adopted, I felt an urgent need to give Chosen a forever home.

Initially, my application was rejected because I already had a dachshund named Luppy. Sadly, our beloved Luppy passed away in October last year. In February this year, while clearing my inbox, I found the rejected application by chance and took it as a sign to try again. I resubmitted my application, and thus began the home trial process for Chosen. I visited Mercylight to meet Chosen and get to know her. This led to three home trials: a three-day trial, followed by a week-long trial, and finally a three-week trial.

How did your family situation and your father's health issues affect your decision to adopt Chosen?

My decision to adopt Chosen was deeply influenced by my family situation. During Chosen's home trial, a family member, who already had health issues, experienced a severe decline in his condition. Our family had to manage additional responsibilities, including hospital visits and medical expenses. Despite these challenges, I remained committed to adopting Chosen. I discussed my situation with Kelly from Mercylight to see if the shelter could provide some support so I could continue the adoption while still managing my family’s predicament. Kelly agreed, ensuring that I could care for both my family and Chosen. Managing the care for both family and Chosen has been challenging, but my mother, an experienced dog caregiver, has been a great support. Kelly from Mercylight has also been a reliable support, even volunteering to care for Chosen during a work trip I had to Shanghai.

What were some of the initial challenges you faced with Chosen's adoption, and how has Chosen integrated into your family, especially with elderly parents?

During the home trials, Chosen was initially nervous and stayed on her bed, deeming it her safe space. Understanding dog behavior, I knew this was normal and patiently helped Chosen adjust. By the third home trial, Chosen was more comfortable and began to explore her new home. It was an incredibly heartwarming moment seeing her step out of the bed and start sniffing around the house. Seeing Chosen increasingly feel safe and secure in her new home reinforced my decision to adopt her. Over time, Chosen has grown more confident and comfortable, becoming a beloved member of the family. Always up for a treat, Chosen has brought lots of joy and new stories to the family, such as the time she knocked off and ate a sea cucumber that was being dried in the house. This incident endeared Chosen even more to our family.

The adoption process, although rigorous, was essential for me. I had read about the adoption procedures in Singapore and appreciated the thorough vetting process by Mercylight. I did not feel burdened by the steps required, such as home visits and shelter visits, as I believed they ensured responsible pet ownership and were needed as much by my family too, to confirm we are a fit for Chosen and vice versa. I could tell each dog was very loved by Mercylight and there was great care to find a fitting home for them. As a fellow dog lover, I empathized with this.

How has adopting Chosen impacted your life, particularly as the main breadwinner and caregiver for your family?

Adopting Chosen has profoundly impacted my life. As the main breadwinner and caregiver, I found joy in giving an elderly dog a loving home. I wanted Chosen to experience the comfort of a home in her twilight years. I firmly believe that adopting an elderly dog is a rewarding experience, as they are often calmer and more affectionate. Chosen is the best work companion when I work from home, laying down at my feet and offering the best snuggles between meetings for some dog therapy! One would think I was giving her the ultimate: a home, but in fact, she gave my family and me just as much love and joy. We trade Chosen stories every day and bond over them.

What advice would you give to others considering adopting a senior dog?

Elderly dogs are very calm and more relaxed. If you are at a stage in your life where you don’t have the time to train a puppy or handle that much energy, then an elderly dog would be very suitable for your household. Chosen, for example, is calm and mellow, allowing her to fit with my elderly parents and hectic work schedule very well.

Some could be concerned about vet bills when it comes to senior dog adoption. While there’s some truth in this, realistically, regardless of a young or senior dog, a care support system and financial commitment towards medical expenses are prerequisites of pet ownership. There are also puppies who run into medical problems at a young age, and certain breeds are just inclined towards certain diseases; so in the end, any dog owner has to be ready for vet costs, it’s really just part and parcel of caring for a dog. Hence, do consider your situation and have an open discussion with the shelter on the dog’s health condition first. Elderly pets are as affectionate and endearing as young dogs. I would really recommend considering giving them a home as well.

What message would you like to share with others about adopting older dogs or dealing with unexpected challenges during the adoption process?

With respect to unexpected challenges, in my experience, I took stock of the situation and assessed the additional support needed to continue with adoption. Then I discussed openly with both Mercylight and my family to address these needs. I would advise open communication and options assessment first.

There are certain misconceptions towards senior dog adoption. For example, ‘a senior dog is already broken in; I can’t train them anymore’, or that ‘senior dogs won’t bond with new owners’. Chosen certainly debunked these myths, she is obedient, no further training required. She’s also super affectionate and attached to my hip. While my experience remains mine, eventually, I believe it’s about finding the right dog for us, not the right age.

Adopting a senior dog is akin to giving them a chance at a happy life. The immense joy of giving and having their love in return is beyond words. You’ll have to try it for yourself!

Q3 2024