In the heart of our family story, there is a special chapter dedicated to Njeki, our loyal and dignified dog. His journey with us, marked by joy, mystery, and an eventual poignant farewell, remains etched in our hearts, illustrating the profound bond between humans and their canine companions.
A Mysterious Arrival
I have no clear memory of when or how Dad brought Njeki into our lives, nor do I recall the origin of his name. But I do remember Dad proudly bringing him home, his collar fastened securely around his neck. That collar, a symbol of his place in our family, intrigued me as a child. I vividly remember figuring out the mechanism of the hook and chain by myself, a small triumph that filled me with pride. Mr. Miringa, our neighbor, referred to the collar as a “kibandi,” suggesting it was a form of ID—an indication that Njeki was special.
A Noble Presence
Njeki was a striking mix of brown and black, his presence commanding respect. Unlike the “mobi” dogs in the neighborhood, Njeki did not scavenge for food or engage in undesirable behaviors. Mr. Miringa’s observation that Njeki was not a “mobi” was reassuring to my mother, and indeed, it made Njeki stand out. Our neighborhood was plagued by stray dogs, many of which were left to fend for themselves. Githeri, a common meal of dried and boiled corn grains, was a staple that even dogs would not touch. Yet, Njeki thrived on the care we provided, and his powerful, authoritative bark was a rare but awe-inspiring sound.
The Pride of Our Family
Njeki was more than just a pet; he was a symbol of our family’s pride and the envy of our neighbors. We restricted his movements to our farm, except for trips to the river. The journey to the river was arduous, passing through dense forest and steep valleys, but it was worth it for the pristine, cold mountain water we fetched. My mother, always cautious, took Njeki with her on these early morning trips, finding comfort and protection in his presence.
A Guard and a Friend
Visitors, especially children, would call out from a distance to ensure Njeki wouldn’t attack them upon arrival. Despite his imposing demeanor, Njeki never bit, attacked, or even chased anyone. He was discreet, even in his natural habits, never soiling our home compound. His loyalty and discipline set him apart from other dogs, who often roamed freely, causing mischief.
A Heartbreaking Disappearance
One day, Njeki went missing. We called and whistled for him, but there was no response. Our concern grew as days passed. Some farmers used poisoned baits to protect their crops, and my mother feared Njeki might have fallen victim to one. Deer traps also posed a threat. When Njeki finally returned, he was weak and sick, his eyes reflecting a sorrowful farewell. Soon after, he disappeared again, and we found him lifeless under a bush near our house. I buried him, a task that filled me with a deep sadness, though I did not cry. His absence left a void in our lives.
The Mystery of His Final Days
I often wonder about Njeki’s final days. It was common to see packs of male dogs pursuing a female, a chase that could last for days. Perhaps Njeki had joined such a pursuit, winning the competition with his strength and power. Yet, this victory might have led to his downfall. During mating, sometimes dogs get stuck together for a time. In such situations they were often stoned by boys, unable to defend themselves, flee or find food.
A Lasting Legacy
Njeki’s story is a testament to the bond between humans and dogs, filled with moments of joy, pride, and profound loss. His legacy lives on in our memories, a reminder of the loyalty and love that a canine companion can bring into our lives. Njeki was more than just a dog; he was a cherished member of our family, whose presence and eventual absence left an indelible mark on our hearts.
