WAS GAEAS YOUR "FIRST CHOICE"?

We initially didn't have the intention to adopt Gaeas because another dog (his other fostered 'sibling') we actually wanted got adopted. It took us a couple of months to get over the heartbreak before we decided to take a chance with Gaeas. The beginning was a little tough as we were first time dog owners but we're so glad we followed through with the adoption with the support of his fosterer and rehomers. Gaeas is a fast learner and is extremely food motivated. He has brought alot of joy to our families with his funny antics.

GAEAS' GREATEST LOVES & PET PEEVES

Gaeas just turned one and he's a local mongrel. He feeds on Fromm dry kibbles with the occasional toppers of salmon belly, minced meat or freeze dried raw. His favourite food can be almost anything! He loves elk antlers, balls, squeak toys and cushy surfaces. Gaeas is super affectionate in general but hates getting his paws wet, being carried or cuddled!

YOUR THOUGHTS ON BLACK CANINES

We'd say to reserve your judgement on black dogs until you actually interact with one! We think it is important to look past the colour of a dog and focus on his/her character and temperament instead to ensure a good fit. Black dogs are sadly overlooked during adoption drives and do not stand much chances at getting adopted as people are quick to pass them off as aggressive. Give them a chance, and who knows you might find that best friend you have been looking for! Bonus, they look good in whatever colours you dress them in.

HOW DID ONYX COME INTO YOUR LIFE?

My late dog, Bboy passed on in 2005. My Mom and me swore to each other that there'd be no more dogs for us. The pain of separation was just too much. Well, we kept that promise to each other for 9 years. In 2014, I saw a post on Facebook about a little black doggy for adoption. I dropped them a message and the rest is history. When I laid eyes on him, and looked into his beady little Steven Segal eyes....I could not say no.

IF YOU CAN DESCRIBE ONYX IN HUNDRED WORDS

Onyx's a 4 year old miniature schnauzer who's also affectionately known as Orhlulu, Nini, Sincere Eyes. He has a very gentle heart and is so, so sensitive. He is also a therapy dog with Therapy Dogs Singapore. He's currently on a two-meal a day diet. In the morning, he's on raw. And for dinner, he's on homecook food. Bak Kwa is one of his all time fave! He has a soft spot for all things soft and cuddley, especially plush toys and beds! And I'd love to get him the Washbar Smell Fresh Natural Daily Spritzers (Citrue & Manuka) . He does get annoyed when he's trying to sleep and there are noises keeping him up. He'll make sure you know that too!

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO SOMEONE WHO WANTS A DOG?

Black Dog Syndrome aka Dog Racism is real. As much as we hate to admit it, it's still happening in this world. Black dogs are just as wonderful companions as their light-coloured friends, and there is absolutely nothing unlucky about them. Adoption saves lives. The next time you're looking to adopt a dog, give them all a chance. Don't shy away from the black ones. Don't choose a dog based on looks or appearances, but look more into their temperament, energy-level and if he or she will fit into your lifestyle.

WAS IT MEANT TO BE WITH ZORA?

It was love at first sight. I had no intentions of getting a third dog. I met Zora at an adoption drive and since many people were filling out forms for her, I decided to walk away knowing she would likely get a good home. But somehow I couldn't get her off my mind, so I went back and who knows, I got shortlisted! She came on 26 August 2015 for her homestay and never left. I do want to say that she was behaviorally very challenging and I was so close to returning her. But I couldn't let her go because I loved her. I knew I had to work through her issues if I want to keep her. With a lot of training over 2 years, she settled in very well and has since blossomed into a stable and confident dog.

WHAT'S ZORA TO YOU?

EVERYTHING. She's perfect the way she is. She's a local mongrel coming to 2 years and 7 months old now. I call her Zesty Zora The Explora, otherwise known as Zora, Z, Zor, Rara. Her spatial memory is AMAZING, and she's great at scent detection! She is able to locate my house keys if I can't find them. She feeds mainly on raw and dehydrated treats that are mostly pungent in smell like tripes, kangaroo kidneys & hearts and cheese! I'd love for her to try The Honest Kitchen's Marvel (because it has limited ingredients and is easy to feed!). She is currently battling an allergic reaction and is on an elimination diet to determine the cause. She can get stressed out though when people or dogs come up to her too quickly, e.g. people reaching out to pat her over the head.

IF ZORA GAVE YOU HER VOICE, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY?

Never judge a book by the cover. Beneath that coat, there is just a dog --- the same as any other dog with white, brown, red, long or short fur. They play the same games and wag their tails in the same way. A black dog doesn't love any less and they can be as great, loyal, faithful and trainable as any other dogs! Let me give you a few more reasons. Black dogs:

1. Make you look tough
2. Look less dirty, especially when they are wet and muddy
3. Looks posh with a sleek black coat
4. Never go out of style; look great with any colored accessories