lodge dogs
If it isn't obvious by now, we are true animal/nature lovers and our affection for dogs is no exception. Bali is an island filled with four-legged friends. As you travel around, we know it can be heartbreaking to see some of them in such bad condition. There are so many wonderful rescues across the island, doing great work in education to help strengthen and support the health of local dog populations.
While we cannot save them all, we have chosen to focus our support on our dear friends at Gaia Island of Dogs. This is where we were lucky enough to find Bronto. If inspired to donate, they can use all the help they can get.
https://gaiaislandofdogsbali.org/
Bali dogs are a truly ancient breed, one of the oldest in the world. They're cultural significance is complicated at best, and their protective instinct toward their owners is something to behold. We feel lucky to share our lodge with several of these gorgeous, intelligent, and hilarious little beasts. While we have three of our own, there are several here on our road who have discovered Jiwa as a place to play with friends, receive lots of lovin'...and certainly grab an occasional treat.
Bronto
Our first rescue, Bronto had a pretty tough beginning chained up down in Canggu. Without food, water, or shelter, he was fortunate enough to have a local angel take him to a rescue center in Tabanana, where he chose Tedd to be his new papa. He's happy to be one of our four-legged ambassadors and loves his new life up on the mountain.
Uni
Uni was born across the road and belonged to the land owners with her mother, Umi. She and Bronto were fast friends when the two were puppies. As the project progressed, we noticed her health declining. She began sleeping on our porch. Quite honestly, she kinda gave us no choice, so we took her in to complete the trio.
Dodum
Dodem is a sweet boy from up the road and belongs to our neighbors, Pak and Ibu Jero. Before we knew his name, he was known as "Scruffy Dog." We made fast friends on our walks up through the forest and he comes to visit most days. Like all Bali dogs, he is very protective of his property, but he is lovable, sweet, and can't wait, to welcome you all to Jiwa.
Pepper
Pepper was number two. The smallest of about seven stray puppies, all from different litters, she was living in the jungle across the ridge. After feeding the little posse every time we drove by, Val fell in love and decided she'd make a great sister for Bronto.
Umi
While not officially our dog, Umi lives across the road and frequents the property to play with her friends. She is super sweet and well taken-care-of by Nanek and Kakek. If you encounter her during your stay, feel free to give treats and scratchies...she'll love them both.
Dobal
Previously referred to as "Hitam," which means 'black' in Indonesian, Dobal lives on the road between Jiwa's two properties and will likely be encountered when you walk down to the restaurant each day. While he makes a loud bark and pretends to act scary, he's a really good boy at heart. He's warming up, but is very dedicated to his job of protecting his Ibu and their property. A noble instinct in a canine, so unless you are a true magician of a dog-whisperer, it's best to simply speak kindly to him, but avoid physical contact with our friend, Dobal.
