An Interesting Animal

Question 12: Describe an interesting animal you’ve encountered. You should say:

      – What type of animal was it?

      – Where did you encounter it?

      – What made it interesting?

      – How did you feel about the encounter?

Model answer by Lifestyle Training Centre

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I was never particularly fond of dogs growing up. In fact, I always considered myself more of a cat person, preferring their independent nature over the constant attention that dogs seemed to demand. However, my perspective completely changed when I met a Siberian Husky at my friend’s place in Bangalore.

I had visited my friend on a cool evening, as Bangalore’s weather is known to be relatively chilly, which was perfect for meeting a dog like a Husky. My friend had recently adopted a Siberian Husky named Shadow, and I was curious but cautious about how I would feel around him. Huskies are known for their striking appearance, with their thick, double-layered coats and piercing blue eyes that give them a majestic, wolf-like look. I remember feeling a little intimidated at first by his size and energy, but that soon faded as Shadow greeted me with enthusiasm and curiosity.

What truly surprised me was how affectionate and intelligent Shadow was. Unlike the aloof dogs I had encountered in the past, Shadow was friendly, well-trained, and very responsive to commands. He knew several tricks, including “sit,” “stay,” and even “roll over,” all of which he executed effortlessly. His playful nature and the bond he shared with my friend made me realise that my perception of dogs had been quite narrow.

However, I also quickly learned that owning a Siberian Husky is not a simple task. Huskies are bred for colder climates, and despite Bangalore’s generally cool weather, Shadow needed to be kept in air-conditioned rooms most of the time. The maintenance of such a dog, with the constant need for climate control and the high cost of proper care, was something I hadn’t considered before. My friend mentioned that keeping Shadow comfortable, especially during warmer months, was expensive and required a lot of attention to ensure he was in the best health.

Despite these challenges, my encounter with Shadow made me realise that I would love to own a Siberian Husky in the future. The idea of having such a loyal, intelligent, and playful companion is something that now excites me. Of course, I would need to ensure I could provide the right environment for the dog, including an air-conditioned space and the necessary resources to care for such an active breed.

In conclusion, my encounter with Shadow, the Siberian Husky, completely changed my view on dogs. It made me appreciate the companionship and joy they can bring, especially a breed as unique and intelligent as a Husky. While owning one in the future would require careful consideration and investment, I now look forward to the possibility of having a Husky as part of my family.

List of vocabulary used:

  1. Particularly fond – Especially liking or showing affection for something.
  2. Independent nature – The quality of being self-reliant and not needing constant attention.
  3. Perspective – A point of view or attitude towards something.
  4. Siberian Husky – A breed of dog known for its thick fur, blue or multicoloured eyes, and wolf-like appearance.
  5. Piercing blue eyes – A vivid description of strikingly intense blue eyes.
  6. Majestic – Having a grand, impressive, or royal appearance.
  7. Affectionate – Showing fondness or tenderness.
  8. Intelligent – Quick to learn and understand.
  9. Well-trained – Properly taught or disciplined.
  10. Playful nature – Being lively and full of fun.
  11. Climate control – Maintaining a specific temperature for comfort or health.
  12. Maintenance – The process of keeping something in good condition.
  13. Companion – A pet or person who shares experiences and provides company.

Phrases and Idioms:

  1. Never particularly fond of – A phrase indicating a lack of strong liking for something.
  2. Constant attention – Continuous care or focus.
  3. Completely changed my perspective – A phrase highlighting a significant shift in attitude or opinion.
  4. Striking appearance – A phrase used to describe someone or something that is remarkably noticeable.
  5. Faded as Shadow greeted me with enthusiasm – A vivid way of describing how initial fears diminished with a positive interaction.
  6. Bond he shared with my friend – Refers to the strong connection between the dog and its owner.
  7. Quite narrow – Limited or restricted in scope.
  8. Not a simple task – A phrase implying that something is challenging or requires effort.
  9. Look forward to the possibility – Expressing excitement about a potential future event.
  10. Part of my family – A phrase indicating emotional closeness and inclusion.

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