Author's angels, Jireh and Misha Layout by Chynna Basillaje
LIFE

Undas for a grieving dog owner

Abegail Esquierda

As they say, dogs are part of our lives, but for them, we are their whole life—a love so pure, unconditional, and loyal.

They also say that being a dog owner means facing the reality of detachment. Their lifespan and immunity are different from ours.

This Undas, people commemorate their loved ones who have passed away by returning to their provinces, bringing flowers, or lighting candles. But is anyone talking about flowers offered just from the backyard?

Flowers for those tiny paws that scratched our core.For those clingy cuddle moments that left fur not just on our shirts but also on our hearts.For those excited eyes that met our tired bodies every time we arrived home.For those playful moments that left passionate marks on our slippers, couches, or stuffed toys with their sharp teeth.For those memories that barked for a lifetime.

Flowers for the domestic dogs we called family or our fur babies.Flowers for the community dogs we fed and cared for together.And flowers, too, for the stray dogs who bravely wandered the streets and endured the changing weather

They, whom some call dirty creatures or bearers of disease, are also those who only ever wanted care and affection in their short lives.