National Pet Day: Shivam Khajuria aka Prem of Anupamaa reveals his pet dog Kiwi has changed his life

Actor Shivam Khajuria, who is currently seen in Rajan Shahi and Deepa Shahi’s show Anupamaa, is a pet-lover and says that life would not be the same without his two pets. The actor, who has a mini poodle called Kiwi, says that his day is filled with his love.

“Kiwi came into our lives in March 2023, so it’s been just over two amazing years of chaos, cuddles, and cuteness. I’m usually out for 12 to 14 hours a day, so when I walk in, it’s like a full red carpet welcome—wags, jumps, kisses, and an immediate demand for belly rubs. The guy literally waits at the door every day and somehow knows when I’m about to reach. Smarter than most humans, I swear!” he says.

He adds, “We have a little ritual—café hopping! I sip on my coffee, munch on a croissant, and he laps up the attention from strangers like a pro. He’s a total social butterfly and thrives on people watching and being watched (laughs).”

Ask him if his pet has ever accompanied him to a shoot or outdoor location, and he says, “Not yet, but the plan is definitely brewing. If I ever get to shoot at a beautiful outdoor location where he can run around freely, Kiwi’s coming with me, no second thoughts!”

Kiwi came into our lives in March 2023, so it’s been just over two amazing years of chaos, cuddles, and cuteness. I’m usually out for 12 to 14 hours a day, so when I walk in, it’s like a full red carpet welcome—wags, jumps, kisses, and an immediate demand for belly rubs.

- Shivam Khajuria

Talking about how he unwinds with his pet at home, he says, “Just being around him makes everything better. We cuddle, he demands belly rubs, gives me slobbery kisses, and then it’s game time—fetch, tug-of-war, or chasing each other around the house with his toys.”

Celebrating occasions with Kiwi is also something that the actor loves. “For his last birthday, I went all out with a little doggy party—invited some of his furry friends, baked a dog-friendly chicken and paneer cake, and even got him a gift hamper with a fancy new leash, harness, and treats. Safe to say, he was the star of the day.”

The actor says that having Kiwi around means the world to him. “No matter how long I’m away, Kiwi always greets me like I’m his whole world. No expectations, just pure love, joy, and tail wags. Whenever I’m feeling low or overwhelmed, Kiwi somehow knows. He’ll quietly come and sit by me, just offering silent comfort. It’s like his eyes do all the talking.”