8 Questions with Sia: Discovering the Heartwarming Story of Hichew the Chihuahua
People who have pets at home know that pets are not just animals—they are family and friends who share our lives. Each type of animal has a different lifespan, and it’s always heartbreaking to say goodbye to them. Today, I’d like to take a moment to share the story of a very special Chihuahua named Hichew, and her beautiful bond with her owner, Sia. I’m deeply grateful to Sia and her partner, Tin, for ordering pet portraits of Hichew to remember and honor her.
Next, I will share a conversation where I interviewed Sia about her Chihuahua, Hichew.
What’s your dog’s name? How did you come up with it?
Because when my oldest sister first saw Hichew, she sneezed 🤧 and immediately said, “Your name will be Hichew from now on!” 🤣
When did she become part of your family?
I was 20 years old, working at a clothing store near the Nanya Night Market in Banqiao. During dinner break, I saw Hichew in a glass display. Despite looking sad, Hichew’s eyes gave me a deep sense of comfort.
Every day, I went to see Hichew until one day, I finally asked the staff about the price to take her home. I even brought my middle sister to see her too. After that, we started dropping hints at home that I wanted to have a dog, but Dad said no—because my oldest sister already had three dogs.
My middle sister and I decided to secretly adopt her. Before work, I’d hide her in the wardrobe (with plenty of air space). She was so good—never made a sound. One day I came home to find her out and about—my oldest sister had discovered her and let her out.
My oldest sister stood up for me and told Dad, “Since she’s already home, let our little sister keep her. I trust she’ll take good care of her.”
Is there a memory that stands out from daily life?
Hichew was so intuitive—she always knew how to comfort me. When I was feeling down, she would keep stretching in front of me because she knew I loved it—I always said “aww” whenever she did. And if that didn’t work, she’d roll around on the bed, reach out to me with her paw, and do whatever she could to cheer me up.
Does she have any unique habits or preferences?
She loved locking eyes with people and—oddly enough—really loved my saliva 🤣 After baths, she’d roll all over the towel. If no towel was ready, she’d go straight for my blanket. She always chose to sleep on my worn clothes, especially when I wasn’t home and She loved plushies and was a total foodie—a little glutton!
What do you think she taught you?
Hichew reminded me I was never truly alone—there were always ones who cared for me, especially her.
If you could describe her in one sentence, what would it be?
A little sunshine angel—bringing light to those in the dark.
What’s something you wish everyone knew about her?
Once, on my way to work, I suddenly felt unwell and came home. I forgot my keys and couldn’t get in. I rang the bell and knocked, but no one came—only Hichew was inside, pawing at the door and whining. Barely conscious, I whispered through the crack of the door, “Hichew, go wake up my sister!” Moments later, my sister opened the door. She said Hichew had been jumping on her, pawing at her, whining nonstop—even pulling her hands away to wake her up.
If she could hear you now, what would you say to her?
Sweet baby… I miss you so much! I love you so, so much… If possible, would you come be my baby again?
I’m so grateful for the opportunity to share their story with you. Thank you again, Sia, for opening your heart and letting us in on such a personal journey.
謝謝珈和球球找到了我，讓我有機會畫啾啾，認識啾啾。我相信，她一定會再回來妳身邊，當妳的小寶貝的。
(Thank you and Tin for finding me and giving me the chance to paint Hichew and get to know her. I truly believe she’ll come back to you one day and be your sweet baby again.)"
