Life with Gucci and Timmy in Dubai: The joys of having Maltese pets at home

Dubai: There’s something magical about coming home to a wagging tail, bright eyes, and the unmistakable sound of little paws racing to greet you. For pet lovers—and especially for me—nothing compares to the pure, unconditional love of my two Maltese companions, Gucci and Timmy.

I've had them by my side for over five years, and every single day, they continue to bring joy, comfort, and laughter into my life. The Maltese breed is known for its intelligence and affectionate nature, and these two embody it perfectly. Whether I'm moving from room to room or simply stepping outside for a moment, they are always close behind—loyal shadows who never want to be apart.

Tiny guardians with big hearts

What truly amazes me is their emotional sensitivity. When I leave for work, they don’t bark or fuss—they just sit quietly, watching with the saddest eyes, as if silently asking, “Why can’t we come too?” But the moment I return, the whole house erupts in joy. They bounce at the door, bark excitedly, and practically launch themselves into my arms, clearly saying, “We missed you!”

And it’s not just about their excitement—it’s their empathy. When I’m feeling under the weather or emotionally drained, they somehow know. They curl up beside me, staying still, gazing at me as if to say, “We’re here for you.” That silent companionship lifts the weight of the world off my shoulders.

Little rituals, big love

Mealtimes in our home are nothing short of sacred. Gucci and Timmy have even learned to pray before eating—yes, really! Before every meal, I tell them, “Thank God for giving us the food and for keeping us healthy. Amen.” At the sound of Amen, they bow their heads, wait patiently, then dive in with delight. Their favorite dish? Chicken with liver, gently boiled with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil—far preferred over store-bought biscuits.

Of course, it’s not always perfect. They aren’t trained to use a litter box, so I do end up cleaning after them quite a bit—and even hire a professional cleaner weekly. But honestly, it’s a small price to pay for the love and laughter they bring.

Why pets are the best stress-relievers

Owning a pet isn’t just about cuteness (although Gucci and Timmy have plenty of that!). It’s about the emotional balance they provide. Studies show that pets can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness. I feel this every day—especially when I look into their eyes and feel all my worries melt away.

They are my protectors too. At the slightest unfamiliar sound, they bark—not aggressively, but alertly—as if to say, “Don’t worry, we’re watching over you.”

Thinking of getting a pet? Here's my advice

If you’ve never had a pet, I wholeheartedly encourage you to adopt one. Whether it’s a dog, cat, or another companion animal, the love you give comes back tenfold. Pets are loyal, intuitive, and genuinely become part of the family. As the saying goes, dogs are man’s best friend—and Gucci and Timmy have proven that true every single day.