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There was much in Varanasi that broke my heart, not the least of which being the numerous strays and their sad pups; the dogs there were the most undomesticated I've ever encountered.

Much like I imagine wild packs would behave, these dogs were territorial and actually quite terrifying at night – as though they owned the ancient city after sundown. I witnessed vicious dog fights almost daily...often what appeared to be disputes between feuding packs and aggressive males having their way with very distraught females.

As such, there were puppies everywhere – scrawny little creatures covered in fleas and sores soon after being born. I tried not to let it get to me, as evidence of human suffering was equally prevalent and my heart could only take so much.

Knowing I couldn't save them, I'd trained myself to just keep walking, but this lil' guy was hellbent on following me. He was in better shape than most and crushed me with those pleading eyes. I finally paused and gave him as much love as I could, wishing I could bring him back to the guest house with me, yet knowing that wasn't possible.

He was so sweet and photogenic, and didn't try to follow when I finally made to leave. Perhaps all he really needed was a little kindness and warm attention.

^{(yes....I'm wearing wool socks with flip-flops – I was thoroughly unprepared for how cold it would be and had no alternative footwear!)}

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^{camera: Canon EOS 5D Markii
lens: 35mmf1.4L Prime
specs: ISO 400 - f1.4 - 1/125 sec
date / location: 14 January 2010 / Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India}

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