Laika And Me

 

When Laika Walked Into Our Lives

Four years ago, something beautiful happened—something that forever changed the rhythm of our lives and the dynamics of our little family. At just 45 days old, she came bounding into our hearts with her floppy ears, soft brown eyes, and a wagging tail that had the power to erase every ounce of stress in an instant. That day, our family of three—me, my husband, and our daughter—became four. And just like that, we were complete.

We named her Laika, after the first dog to travel to space. I felt that a name that marked courage, exploration, and history was perfect for this tiny furball who was about to create her own little universe in our home.

To say she brought change would be an understatement.

At that time, my husband was struggling with hypertension. Ironically, he had always had an aversion to pets. “Too messy,” he’d say. “Too much responsibility.” But I saw something missing in our lives—something only a loyal, four-legged companion could bring. So despite his reluctance, We brought Laika home.

What followed was nothing short of magic.

Not only did Laika sneak her way into his heart, but she also lowered his blood pressure, both literally and metaphorically. Her calming presence, her playful nudges, the quiet company she offered—it was as if she instinctively knew what he needed.

Then there was our daughter, who had always been terrified of dogs. I’ll never forget the initial hesitation in her eyes when she first met Laika. Fast forward to today, and you’ll find the two of them inseparable. They play together every day—chasing, cuddling, laughing. I see in my daughter a carefree joy I hadn’t seen before. Laika transformed her fear into friendship, and that’s a bond I cherish deeply.

For me, Laika is like the baby I never knew I needed. Our days revolve around feeding her, walking her, talking to her (yes, we have full conversations!), and just soaking in her presence. She listens like no one else. She’s the therapist who charges nothing, the baby who doesn’t grow up, and the best friend who never judges.

Through her, we found new routines, deeper love, and lighter hearts. She didn’t just complete our family—she healed it, revived it, and filled it with fur-covered happiness.

This is just the beginning of our journey. There are countless stories to tell—some funny, some heartwarming, some plain chaotic. But they all revolve around one little Labrador who came, saw, and conquered our hearts.

Stay with me as I unfold the tales of life with Laika—our furry bundle of love.