One man & his dogs

It was hate at first sight when former director in charge of ITC’s hotels, travel and food businesses, Habib Rehman first laid eyes on a small white Spitz adopted by his wife Sukhi 15 years ago. The dog-loving Rehman had an aversion to small dogs, so he banished Gori to the servant’s room and ignored her every time he spotted her. But in the best Bollywood tradition, one stormy night brought about a change in his relationship with Gori, which has finally culminated in Rehman’s first book – a memoir about Gori – just released by Roli Books on July 29.

Puppy Love
A Home For Gori documents Rehman’s love for his pet. He explains, “Gori’s story will help me share my joy and sorrow of owning and loving a pet with other animal lovers.” Recalling that occasion when he caved in, Rehman says, “One night, I let my wife get Gori into our room. She jumped up on our bed and snuggled inside the comforter, next to my legs. That’s where she slept for the rest of her life.”

Indeed, as his relationship with Gori developed into mutual love and respect, Rehman says he realised that apart from her size, Gori was all heart and loyalty and affection – the same as any big dog or more. “I treated her with disdain,” recalls Rehman. “It wasn’t an equal setting. But this book is about our love, not our guilt.”

Full report here Hindustan Times