India, April 11 -- For actor Alaya F, her three-year-old Maltese, MJ - short for Magic Junior - is far more than just a pet. He's a tribute to her late dog, Magic, and undoubtedly the centre of her universe.

Having grown up surrounded by animals, Alaya always had a soft spot for pets. But when she moved into her own space four years ago, she decided to hold off on bringing one home. "When I moved into my own house four years ago, I decided I will not get a pet. They are like babies and it would be a big responsibility. I didn't want to take it up since I had to manage everything alone," the 27-year-old tells us.

However, once a friend who was heading out of town asked Alaya to look after his dog temporarily. "The pet was comfortable wit...