Pet Adoption & Pet Parenting: Tail-Wagging Truths with Suchitra Pillai

Forget fancy film sets and star-studded premieres—Suchitra Pillai’s real blockbuster moments happen at home, where a mischievous ginger cat thinks he’s a dog, a fearless pup finds family on the streets, and love has fur, paws, and a whole lot of personality. In this heartwarming and laugh-out-loud feature, we dive into the wild, wonderful world of Suchitra’s pet parenting adventures—from Loki’s death-defying (but very on-brand) escape act to the unexpected romance between two street-savvy doggos. But beyond the chaos, cuddles, and comic timing, there’s a deeper story—a love letter to adoption, second chances, and the unmatched magic of rescue animals. Because sometimes, the greatest co-stars in life don’t walk on two legs… they prance, pounce, and purr their way into our hearts.

"Looking for love that doesn’t judge and a friendship that doesn’t fade?

Adopt."

The Spark of Compassion: Annika’s Early Animal Encounters

Every great pet-loving story has a beginning, and for Suchitra’s family, it started with her daughter Annika’s innate connection to all creatures, big and small. “She was rescuing little kittens left, right, and centre!” Suchitra fondly recalled a childhood filled with tiny, often orphaned, furballs. This wasn’t just a fleeting childhood fancy but a genuine empathy towards their multi-pet household. Getting a family pet wasn’t a matter of “if” but “when.”

A child’s heartfelt desire can be a powerful force.

By the time Annika was seven, her persistent (and probably incredibly adorable) pleas finally won my husband over. “Straight away, our first thought was to go to an adoption centre,” Suchitra emphasized, her voice filled with conviction. “Definitely not buy it from somewhere.”

Enter Goldie... Wait for It... Loki! The Kitten Destined for Mischief

Their visit to ‘Animals Matter To Me’ in Mumbai was like stepping into a real-life Noah’s Ark, filled with hopeful meows and gentle barks. Amidst the flurry of furry residents, Annika was initially drawn to a more outgoing, multi-coloured kitty – tiny, mewing bundles with eyes barely open.

But fate, as it often does, had a different plan.

A ginger-tinged plan with a hint of Norse mythology. Suchitra’s husband first spotted him – a tiny, quiet ginger ball huddled in a corner. “Oh my god, look at that,” he’d exclaimed, unknowingly pointing to their future agent of adorable chaos. That was Goldie instantly captivating Annika. Adoption papers were signed, and Goldie was officially part of the Pillai clan.

“He has to have a Danish name because my husband is from Denmark. So, Loki, God of mischief, that’s what he is!” Suchitra chuckled, a knowing smile in her voice. Little did they know just how accurately their little ginger fluffball was named.

The initial days were pure, tiny purrs, clumsy pounces, and heartwarming snuggles that made you forget all your troubles. But then came the adventure that nearly gave them all matching grey hairs. Three days in, Loki channelled his inner mischief and decided to explore the great beyond their sixth-floor apartment. Picture a curious kitten, a momentarily open door, and a lightning-fast dash down five flights of stairs!

‘The cat jumped out!’ Suchitra recounted the house help’s voice with hers still scented in the initial panic. What ensued was a scene straight out of a slapstick comedy (albeit a terrifying one at the time). The maid frantically called, ‘Loki, Loki!’ as she chased him down the stairwell. But Loki was too energetic to cease. He ran right through the open grills of the lift shaft and plummeted five floors. “We had no clue whether this cat had survived or not,” Suchitra said, the moment’s gravity palpable. The frantic search that followed was a blur of adrenaline and whispered prayers.

Miraculously, they found him in the corner of the lift shaft, alive! “The God of mischief,” I told you! He’d somehow landed without serious injury, earning a stern (but loving) talking-to and a permanent indoor-cat status (mostly!).

Loki's Doggy Delusions and Heartfelt Connections

But Loki isn’t your average, aloof feline. Oh no, he’s a special cat – the kind that seems to think he's a canine in disguise. “He thinks he is a dog, but he is actually a cat,” Suchitra laughed. This isn't just a cute observation; it’s a fundamental part of Loki’s charmingly bizarre personality. He enthusiastically plays fetch, answers to his name with an almost dog-like eagerness, and even converses with Suchitra's husband in Danish! “My husband is talking to him in Danish, and Loki answers every question in a different tone! We’ve got videos of it!” she shared, still utterly charmed by their unique bond.

Despite his dramatic entrance into their lives and his occasional moments of mischief, Loki is a deeply affectionate companion. Considering his early trauma (being found during the loud and chaotic Diwali festival), his transformation into a loving member of the family is truly heartwarming. “Once he knows and loves you, my God, he is the best cat ever,” Suchitra said, her voice filled with genuine affection. He’s also incredibly intuitive, sensing when someone in the house is under the weather and offering his comforting presence. “He knows when I’m upset. He knows when somebody in the house is not feeling well, he will go and sleep with that person. They take away your negative energy. He knows.”

A Growing Family: Welcoming Veeru and the Shy Charm of Basanti

The Pillai household’s capacity for love knows no bounds. Enter Veeru, a sweet stray dog who wandered into their lives late one night. “My watchman’s son was standing there with this little black puppy in his arms with a docked tail and everything," Suchitra recounted, her immediate reaction a resounding, “Oh my god!” Despite already having a young and energetic Loki, they couldn't turn away. Veeru found his place downstairs, complete with his own bed and the freedom to roam.

And then there's Basanti, Veeru’s “girlfriend” (as Suchitra affectionately calls her). Basanti, another rescue, appeared one day and decided to make their building her home. She has her own cozy spot, enjoys regular meals, and has a soft spot for Veeru. However, her past experiences have left her wary of human touch. “She will not allow us to touch her,” Suchitra shared with a touch of sadness. “She’ll smile, wag her tail, and jump, but you go to put your hand, and she'll run.” Basanti’s story is a reminder of the invisible scars some rescued animals carry and the immense patience and gentle love required to help them heal.

The Heart of the Matter: Why Adoption Always Wins

For Suchitra and her family, the decision to adopt has never been a question but rather an inherent belief in giving deserving animals a second chance. Having grown up with pets and witnessing the immeasurable joy and companionship they bring, the thought of seeking out a breeder never crossed their minds. “It wasn’t even a thought to go to a breeder,” she reiterated with a firm nod. Their unwavering support for animal welfare organisations, including the remarkable Kalote Animal Trust (which houses an incredible array of rescued animals, from cats and dogs to monkeys and even donkeys!), speaks volumes about their commitment to this cause.

Suchitra is determined to debunk the myth that rescued pets are ‘damaged goods’ compared to purebreds. “Rubbish!” she declared with her characteristic passion. "On the contrary, they are looking for love even more! They don't have their nose in the air like these pedigrees… all they’re looking for is love and a family. And if you have both of those things to give, why not open your door and your heart?”

A Changing World for Furry Friends: Progress in Pet Adoption

Suchitra has observed a significant and heartening shift in India's pet adoption landscape. "There's a lot more of it now," she noted with genuine pleasure, attributing much of this positive change to the power of social media and the tireless dedication of animal rescue organizations. While adoption processes have become more thorough and responsible (a crucial step in ensuring these animals find safe and loving homes forever), the fundamental message of offering a second chance to a deserving creature remains strong.

She also touched upon the ongoing challenges, particularly the fear and hesitation some people still have towards stray animals. “People are always scared to approach dogs or cats on the street,” she acknowledged. While caution is understandable, Suchitra believes that more people can overcome their fear and potentially offer help with empathy and a willingness to understand animal behaviour.

Myth-Busting with Suchitra: Separating Fact from Furry Fiction!

We couldn't resist a fun round of myth-busting, and Suchitra was more than happy to set the record straight with her trademark humour and heartfelt honesty:

• Rescue dogs are always aggressive or have behavioural issues?

False! Absolutely false!

• Do Big dogs need big homes?

Yes, ideally, true.

• You can’t teach an old dog new tricks?

False! You absolutely can!

• Rescue dogs can bond as strongly as puppies?

That is most definitely true! Sometimes, they are even stronger because they know they’ve been given a second chance.

• Cats are not affectionate?

False, false, false! Cancel that myth right now!

• Black cats bring bad luck?

Absolutely not! My childhood cat was midnight black with the most beautiful green eyes. He was pure love!

• Milk is suitable for cats?

On the fence... leaning towards false. Regular milk isn’t good for them. I don’t give Loki milk.

• Spaying or neutering pets makes them weak?

No! It makes them healthier and happier! Loki is neutered, and he’s as strong as an ox. He may be a little rounder because I might overfeed him with love!

• Indian stray dogs aren’t as good as foreign breeds?

That’s ridiculous! Look at my Veeru and Basanti – they are the sweetest souls! Their eyes tell a million stories.

• Is adopting a young puppy/kitten better than a senior because they adjust better? 

Young ones adjust quickly, yes. But it’s incredibly rewarding to give a loving home to a senior animal who might have been abandoned. They might take a little longer to adjust, but the love they give back is immense.

• You must give away a pet if you get pregnant.

Absolutely not! That’s an old wives’ tale. With proper hygiene, there’s no reason to give up a beloved pet.

• One person can’t make a difference?

Oh, my god, that's so wrong! One person can make a HUGE difference! Look at Ratan Tata’s incredible work with animals. And even in my own small way, my daughter has rescued so many kittens—every single rescue matters.

To Open Hearts and Homes

If you are looking for a life brimming with laughter, unconditional love, and quirky adventures only a rescue animal can bring, don’t just consider it – open your heart and home. “Just look into those eyes,” she urged, “and you’ll know that you’re meant to give them the loving home they so deserve.” Your Loki (Veeru or Basanti!) is waiting to bring “paw-sitive vibes” into your world. Then, what are you waiting for?