Pets live in a world of their own. Yes, they can meow or bark to their heart’s content, and we can sometimes surmise their meaning, but we ultimately have no idea what is actually going on inside their cute, furry heads. What do they think of their position and status in these environments that are forced upon them? Do they prefer wet or dry food? Who were they rooting for in the last season of Rupaul’s Drag Race? These were all questions that we were dying to ask, but, most importantly, we wanted to get their stories and find out how these animals found their adopted families.
We decided to get on all fours and do our best to put these perspectives into words (not just barks or meows), and examine the nitty-gritty details of these familial bonds. It was a lengthy and complicated process interviewing these companions, and we won’t bore you with the entire process, but Siri was a massive help with translating. For brevity’s sake, let’s just skip straight to the groundbreaking, if not miraculous, results.
Bluey Gillespie
I’m only four years old, but I am wise beyond my years. I’ve grown up surrounded by a beautiful, loving family that practices the peaceful self-defense art of Aikido. I remember that day four years ago when they picked me up. I was nervous, but leaped at the opportunity, immediately landing in six-year-old Isla’s bag and ready to go to my forever home. I have since been showered with attention and treats by the Gillespies.
The skills I have gleaned from constant Aikido training with Isla allows me to slip out of any prickly situation with ease. I reciprocate this tutelage with hours of cuddles and by being a trusted confidant and friend. Most people say that I act like a dog, but this little lady just brings these uncharacteristically canine attributes out in me. But, like a cat, I always land on my feet! This couldn’t be more evident than in my choice of the Gillespie family.
Luna London-Mason
Sup y’all! I’m Luna, and I’m the sassiest pup in Lianbao Garden. As an exotic mix of many sought after street breeds, I’ve been gifted with a particular je-ne-sais-quoi exterior that’s led to a moderately successful modeling career. Life has been good to me so far being a part of the London-Mason tribe. I was picked up at a shelter four and a half years ago by this lovely family, and have since become the go-to creature in the family for a quality cuddle. I’ve taken a liking to my human service team. When I’m not claiming couch space, or provocatively sprawled across an antique tribal kilim rug, I try to maintain a healthy diet that goes beyond the essential proteins and includes a healthy dose of cucumbers and carrots. When I go outside, you better watch out! Yeah, I’m talking to you, Ginger and Sarah! Just kidding. We just need to parley about a few things, but it’s probably best that we keep the leashes on just in case the peace process gets heated.
Toby and Princess Stewart-Yates
We began life in a complicated household, where our primary caregivers were often living abroad. Toby and I were left in the care of an ayi who was not committed to giving us the time and attention that we craved. It was difficult, but we were patient that our situation would soon improve. Luckily we were introduced to Janice, Nick, and Dylan, and decided it would be a fortuitous union. Since joining their family, they have given us a home filled with love and compassion, and we have tried to return their affection with loads of pleasureful grunts and slobbery pug kisses. We feel that we are pretty successful in this respect. Between cuddle sessions, we enjoy pulling out and cozying up with whatever cashmere items we are able to get our tiny paws on. Let us indulge in a slice of smoked salmon, and we will be best friends for life!
Ginger Sadie and Sarah Bridget Lindner
I’m Ginger, and this is my sister Sarah. We are a dynamic duo of twin teddy poodles and rule the yard of the Lianbao Garden compound with our ultimate cuteness and fierce (when we need to be) temperament. We may be tiny, but we are very mighty. We love our two compatriots, and partners in crime, Elliot and Monty. Together we run around the neighborhood in search of things to smell. Elliot and Monty don’t usually partake in the smelling, but often let us do our business without too much interference. When we are good protectors of our humans, we are rewarded with bones dipped in peanut butter. For some odd reason, giving us a dollop of this thick substance is humorous to our masters. That’s OK though, because Sarah leaves secret “number ones” in mom and dad’s bedroom, which is hilarious to us.
Baiselong
Hello, plebs. When I’m not maintaining my overlord status in my human/feline domain, I’m plotting my imminent return to power over the provincial cat kingdom. After my supreme power was taken from my family in a kitty coup, at two weeks old, I found myself living on the streets. But, luckily, when all hope was lost and I was hiding behind a pile of bricks about to resign myself to nature’s will, I was saved and adopted by Adam and Savy. It was through their tender care that I was able to recover my strength and start planning my rise to power. Although lately, I’ve been very content with my current post as the supreme leader of this quaint household. I am perpetually showered with treats and objects of affection. I think humans refer to these items as “toys.” Whatever they are, they are mine, and I don’t like to share. I respect Savy and Adam for their work adopting others of my species and helping kitties who are in need, as long as my authority is never questioned and my rule over this tiny realm not challenged.
This article appeared in the beijingkids October 2019 Family Foodies issue
