{
  "id": 2267039,
  "title": "Scruffy, the little dog who left a lifetime of memories",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/21/scruffy-the-little-dog-who-left-a-lifetime-of-memories",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-21T01:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Free Malaysia Today",
    "slug": "free-malaysia-today-freemalays",
    "url": "https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/08/21/scruffy-the-little-dog-who-left-a-lifetime-of-memories"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "For nearly two decades, Scruffy was the beloved companion of Lysha Tan, serving as her personal watchdog, baby monitor, and doorbell. The long-haired Chihuahua, who lived to the grand age of 19 and a half, left behind an immeasurable void in Tan's life. Tan's husband, initially hesitant about dogs, eventually accepted Scruffy into their family after the initial secret reveal. Scruffy was an irreplaceable member of the household, always keeping his family entertained with his quirky antics. During the pandemic lockdowns, the dog's comforting presence was invaluable. As Scruffy aged, he faced numerous health challenges, but Tan attributed his long life to a balanced diet and abundant love. Despite his failing health, Scruffy remained a cherished figure, even as his hearing faded. In his final days, the family made the difficult decision to let him go peacefully at home. Scruffy's ashes are now interred in a biodegradable urn beneath a mandarin orange plant, near his favorite spot on the balcony. Tan fondly remembers her unique, comical, and endearing friend, who was a true blessing in her life.",
  "summary": "For nearly two decades, this long-haired Chihuahua filled Lysha Tan’s home with lots of barks, laughter and companionship.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Free Malaysia Today",
        "title": "Scruffy, the little dog who left a lifetime of memories",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/21/scruffy-the-little-dog-who-left-a-lifetime-of-memories-2270296",
        "published": "2026-08-21T01:00:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}