SPCA's longest-serving staff member recalls how he started out on the job with a fear of dogs

Key Concepts:

• SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)
• Fear of dogs
• Kampung (Malay/Indonesian word for village)
• Love for pets
• Emotional attachment to animals

Karan's Initial Fear of Dogs:

Karan recounts his initial fear of dogs stemming from his childhood experiences in a kampung. He describes how he would run away whenever a dog barked. This fear was a significant factor when he first considered working at the SPCA.

Joining the SPCA:

After a brief stint at a shipyard following his army service, Karan was offered a job at the SPCA by a friend. He was unfamiliar with the organization at the time. His first experience at the SPCA's Orchard Road location was startling, as he was immediately greeted by a group of unleashed dogs, causing him to instinctively hug his friend out of fear.

Motivation for Staying at SPCA:

Despite his initial fear, Karan has worked at the SPCA for 45 years. His primary motivation for staying so long is his love for pets.

Emotional Balance and Attachment:

Karan emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy emotional distance from the animals. He uses the example of liking a cat too much, explaining that excessive attachment can lead to sadness when the animal is adopted. However, he ultimately finds joy in knowing that the cats and dogs are going to good homes.

Happiness in Animal Adoption:

Karan expresses that the greatest satisfaction comes from seeing the animals adopted and going to their new homes. This is a source of happiness for him and his colleagues.

Conclusion:

Karan's story highlights his personal journey from being afraid of dogs to dedicating 45 years of his life to the SPCA. His love for pets, coupled with the ability to find joy in their adoption, has been the driving force behind his long and fulfilling career. He emphasizes the importance of emotional balance in animal care, acknowledging the sadness of separation but ultimately prioritizing the animals' well-being and happiness in their new homes.