In a heartwarming testament to the bond between humans and animals, a Kolkata family is redefining what it means to be a family. Sreenanda Shankar and her mother, Tanusree Shankar, share their home with four dogs they lovingly refer to as their children.
Our Four Dogs Aren't Just Pets – They're Our Children
Sreenanda Shankar, who recently moved back to her Kolkata home from Mumbai, brought along her two dogs, Dodo and Diva. They joined her mother Tanusree's pets, Tango and Teddy, creating a lively household of four canine companions.
"In ways I cannot put into words, they have always been there for me," says Sreenanda, expressing the deep emotional connection she shares with her pets. Her mother echoes this sentiment with equal passion: "I've experienced this before with six dogs, but feeling it again is just as magical, maybe even more."
And Then There Were Four!
Tanusree Shankar describes their home as filled with love and harmony. "It's a relief that with every tail wag and cuddle, they got along so well," she says, reflecting on how seamlessly the four dogs integrated into one family unit.
For Sreenanda, the transition from Mumbai to Kolkata was remarkably smooth. Dodo and Diva already knew her mother and the house staff, Laxman and Debu, having grown up socializing with various people. Meanwhile, Tango and Teddy – accustomed to meeting Tanusree's dance students – welcomed the newcomers without hesitation.
"They just sniffed each other and became friends," Sreenanda recalls with a smile.
From Mumbai to Kolkata via Train
Sreenanda's recent move from Mumbai to Kolkata with Dodo and Diva involved a train journey that proved more comfortable than anticipated. "A first-class ticket gave them the space and calm they needed, and travelling with two trusted members of our house staff helped them feel secure," she explains.
Upon arrival in Kolkata, there was no adjustment period needed. "It felt like they had always belonged," Sreenanda says. "Having grown up around people and constant affection, they settled in effortlessly."
Meet the Four-Legged Family Members
- Tango (8 years old): A gentle Labrador who loves food and everyone he meets, carrying lots of warmth in his demeanor.
- Teddy (1 year old): A rescue Spitz who carries traces of a difficult past but is deeply loving and learning to trust humans again.
- Diva (6 years old): A Shih Tzu who serves as the pack's strong leader, affectionate and fond of curling up on laps.
- Dodo (4 years old): A loving Labrador who enjoys staying close to his humans and receiving cuddles.
Unconditional Love That Transforms
Sreenanda reflects on the profound impact her dogs have had on her life: "No matter how difficult the moment, they find a way to make me smile. Their love asks for nothing, expects nothing and yet gives everything. It is pure and unconditional."
Tanusree offers advice to fellow pet lovers: "Love your pets like family – talk to them, make them feel they belong. They return it with unwavering love that changes you."
Sreenanda emphasizes their family philosophy: "In our home, there are no leashes, or chains, or sense of limitation. This is their space as much as it is ours. They are not separate, they are family."
A Dog Mum's Guide to Kindness for Strays
As an experienced dog owner, Tanusree Shankar has developed insights into showing kindness to stray dogs. She believes it begins with something very simple: respect and patience.
"I never rush toward them or try to touch them immediately; instead, I let them come to me when they feel safe," she explains. "I try to leave out fresh water and food whenever I can, especially in harsh weather, and I speak to them gently so they recognize warmth, not fear."
She advises that if a stray is hurt or unwell, it's best to reach out to local rescuers or veterinarians. "They deserve care just as much as any pet at home," Tanusree asserts. "Kindness is not just about feeding them – it's about making them feel that they are not alone in this world."
This Kolkata family's story serves as a beautiful reminder of how animals can become integral members of our families, offering unconditional love and transforming our lives in the process.
