Lily is more than just a pet; she is the beloved Tibetan Terrier who has become the absolute heart of our home. Known for their affectionate nature and lively personality, Tibetan Terriers make wonderful companions, and Lily is truly no exception to this rule. She is smart, funny, full of character, and always remains close by, whether she is supervising us in the studio or curled up peacefully at our feet. This tribute is dedicated to her incredible journey—from her early, mischievous puppy days to her proudest training achievements and the joy she brings us every single day.
The Story of Lily’s Arrival
We sadly lost our previous rescue dog, Tom, at only five years old in June 2013. In the weeks following his passing, I initially did not want to think about getting another dog. However, as time went by, I knew that if we were to open our hearts to another companion, it had to be a different breed and a girl dog to ensure a fresh start.
One day, while out for a walk, I told Nicholas that I wanted a puppy and, for reasons unknown, I insisted on calling her Lily. We began searching for a girl puppy of any small to medium breed, but were unsuccessful until we stumbled upon a family who had recently had a litter of Tibetan Terrier puppies. Out of the three remaining puppies, one was a girl registered as “Blue Velvet.” We knew we had to visit her.
Lily’s Early Days and the Name Coincidence
Upon arrival at the breeder’s house, we were introduced to the puppies, who had just finished their very first bath. The breeder, Linda, told us that while they had registered names, her grandchildren had given them various pet names. When I asked about the little girl puppy, she told me, “Her name is Lily.” I was absolutely stunned, as I had chosen that exact name without knowing it was already hers. I felt instantly that it was meant to be, and from that moment on, she was ours.
Adjusting to Life at Home
Bringing an eight-week-old puppy home for the first time is a nerve-wracking experience for everyone involved. Lily was understandably nervous about leaving the safety of her mother and siblings, but she quickly began to settle into our routines. She would often follow me around, even finding comical spots to rest, such as nestled between my slipper boots while I worked in the kitchen.
We quickly learned that life with a Tibetan Terrier puppy was a whirlwind of energy. When she wasn’t napping, she was into everything. We spent the first few years on the go, transitioning from short walks to much longer adventures as she grew stronger. She might have been small, but she possessed a spirited attitude that kept us constantly entertained.
Training Achievements and Smarts
As Lily grew, we enrolled her in dog training classes, where she truly thrived. She demonstrated incredible intelligence and an eagerness to please that made training a joy. She successfully navigated the Kennel Club’s Good Citizen Dog Scheme, achieving her Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards with flying colors. These accomplishments are a testament to her clever nature and the bond we built through consistent, positive training.
Life with a Tibetan Terrier
Lily continues to provide us with endless laughter and companionship. Whether she is returning from a snowy adventure looking like a little “snow yeti” or patiently waiting through her grooming sessions, she remains a constant source of joy. Tibetan Terriers require dedicated grooming to maintain their beautiful double coats, and while Lily isn’t the biggest fan of bath time, she tolerates it with patience.
Beyond her personality, she has always been gentle with other animals. We have always kept chickens in our garden, and Lily was known for keeping a respectful, curious watch over them, forming a surprisingly harmonious relationship with our garden residents.
Conclusion
At 12 years old, Lily remains the centerpiece of our lives. Her journey from that tiny puppy we found by total coincidence to the accomplished and spirited companion she is today has been a privilege to witness. She reminds us daily of the immense happiness a well-loved dog brings into a home. We are so grateful to have her by our side, and we look forward to many more happy memories with our wonderful girl.
If you enjoyed reading about Lily’s life, be sure to explore our other articles on pet care and animal companionship!