“I still remember the day I found Simba, my furry companion, in a small passage way behind my college. It was my first year of college (UG), and I was on a walk with my friend after practice. We stumbled upon a bunch of adorable pups playing on the street, and our hearts melted. But then, I saw him – a tiny, weak pup with a scratch on his head, almost invisible in the darkness. His sparkly eyes caught my attention, and I knew I had to help him.

I picked him up gently and held him close, and it was love at first sight. My friend commented on how weak he looked, and I couldn’t agree more. He was just days old, covered in fleas and ticks, and in a terrible condition. But there was something about him that drew me in.

As I held him close, I knew I had to give him a chance at a better life. And that’s how Simba became a part of my journey. It’s been an incredible ride ever since, filled with laughter, tears, and unconditional love. He’s more than just a pet – he’s my companion, my confidant, and my little bundle of joy.

The journey wasn’t easy, though. I had to convince my parents to let me keep him, and then there were the countless vet visits, the sleepless nights, and the constant worrying. But Simba was worth it all.

Since he looked like he was only days old and we thought it was such a bad condition he was in. With fleas and ticks all over his face. I don’t know what reflex was it of me to do so, but I picked him up and he was about my palm size. I said “I’m taking him home” my friend couldn’t believe it. She said “just like that?” I said “YES I cannot see him like this.” We tried searching for his parents but since he was partially blind in the other eye we thought they just abandoned him. It just felt like a divine connection with Simba as though I already know him as a soul. In one eye I saw the oceanic dream and in the other, innocence and fear. Dramatic, I know. I took him home on an Uber bike. Even the driver was amazed and asked how are you holding him in your pocket? I said “itna chota hai aur bahar bhot thand.” And I, as a professional chatter box, told him the story of the great rescue. He told God bless you,may the world have great humans like you around.

Upon reaching home, I proceeded to give him a bath, patiently combed out all the fleas and wiped the dirt stuck on his skin. Took him to the vet next day morning and got him vaccinated,groomed and fought with my family to keep him. Eventually everyone around him fell in love with him because he never seemed to stop loving us either. Now all of us have a reason to come back home every day and that’s Simba. He’s the sole reason my mental health had improved from being in the most horrible condition including my physical health and my happiness. That is what I owe to him. He’s my true soulmate,the love of my life.”