I love dogs. This has nothing to do with their anatomy nor with my state of origin. It was not love at first sight either. It is a bit complicated.I will explain.
When I was growing up, dogs were used as sacrificial offering to the deity and later consumed by human (It is rather ironical how deities never benefit from sacrifices offered to them). My contact with them was hopelessly limited to seeing them tied down with their destinies staring them in the eyes. It was cruelty at a primeval level to canine that are fiercely loyal and extremely friendly to man.
Each time I had this experience, I always felt I owe these domesticated animals the duty of liberation. Technology and the gospel however came and relieved me of what would have been a daunting responsibility. The use of dogs as sacrifices have since reduced as deities have upgraded their taste buds and no longer hunger after rare steaks!
I tried to show my love and attention for dogs in Nigeria as a friend and neighbour gave me a puppy of rare breed. My family fell in love with the tiny specie and named him Oscar. Just as we were getting to know one another; he fell ill and Nigeria health delivery system failed us and Oscar died. My friends suspected foul play but I know nothing about its death. Anyway, I promised my kids another opportunity of having a pet when we get to a saner clime.
Saner clime however has its challenges. Health care delivery for both human and animals is top notch here, so also is the attendant costs. Forget Obamacare. The fact of the matter is that dogs don't eat left overs here, and are also not expected to fend for themselves as they do in my town! As at my last calculations, it is cheaper raising a kid than having a dog as pet.
So, my love for dogs remains intact but suspended.
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