Loyalty without conditions, love without demands

PARENTING A PET

Kamna Tripathi talks about her pet Labrador Gabbar, saying he is family and one of life’s most profound teachers

I never set out to become a dog parent, but life felt settled when Gabbar first came into our home in Nagpur. He arrived as a tiny Labrador pup, soft, curious and unsure of the world, with floppy ears and awkward steps that instantly filled the house with warmth. What I did not realise then was that he would soon become our most loyal companion through change, movement and new beginnings.

Soon after Gabbar joined us, my husband Ajay’s work brought a series of transfers.

Homes changed, addresses changed, surroundings changed, but Gabbar remained constant. From Nagpur to other places and finally to NTPC Unchahar, he travelled with us without complaint. Wherever we went, he made himself at home, teaching me that belonging is not tied to walls, but to people and love.

Each move came with its own challenges. New houses meant unfamiliar smells, different routines and moments of uncertainty. For Gabbar, adjusting came naturally; for me, parenting him meant becoming his anchor. I learned that reassurance could be offered through touch, patience and routine. He trusted us completely and that trust carried us through every transition.

Raising Gabbar was never about instructions or rules written in books. It was about learning his language—spoken through expressive eyes, wagging tails, and the gentle pressure of his paw on my hand. There were nights of interrupted sleep, especially in new places, when I would check if he was comfortable, if the move had unsettled him or if he needed quiet company more than anything else. Through Gabbar, I learned that care did not always need words. Presence was often enough.

Ajay often smiled at how Gabbar slowly became the centre of our lives. Our plans revolved around his walks, our homes were arranged with his comfort in mind and even short outings meant ensuring he would be at ease when we returned. Without effort, Gabbar became part of every decision. That is when I understood that parenting was not about control but about shared responsibility and unconditional acceptance.

Now, at NTPC Unchahar, Gabbar has truly settled. Our morning walks have become a ritual, the two of us moving together as the colony wakes up to a new day. He senses my moods even before I speak. On difficult days, he sits quietly beside me, offering comfort without questions. On joyful days, his enthusiasm multiplies the happiness, reminding me to celebrate small moments.

Seven years have passed since Gabbar first walked into our Nagpur home. A gentle touch of age now shows on his muzzle, but his devotion remains unchanged. He still waits by the door, still looks back during our walks to ensure I am there and still believes my return home is the best moment of his day.

Parenting Gabbar has been a quiet blessing. There are no certificates or milestones, only loyalty without conditions, love without demands and a companionship that gently teaches you how to be human.

Gabbar may be called a pet, but in truth, he is family and one of life’s most profound teachers.