How a Terrified Shelter Dog Found Healing and Happiness Through Bonding with Grandpa
A heart-melting video featuring a once-fearful shelter dog, initially terrified of men, has gone viral on TikTok as she shares a touching bond with her owner’s dad, lovingly referred to as “grandpa.” Candice Yates (@onthecanwithcandice) shared the heartwarming footage, which has amassed over 960,000 views since its posting on December 26, 2023, in Russell County, southwest Virginia.Throughout the video, the dog engages in various heart-melting interactions with grandpa, from lying on his chest to enjoying belly rubs and playful moments. The caption on the clip reads, “They say dogs have a way of knowing about people…I guess my dad gets the dog stamp of approval.”
This heartwarming moment underscores the profound impact of human interaction on shelter dogs, echoing the findings of a March 2019 study that highlights social isolation as a significant stressor for animals in shelters. The study suggests that human interaction can reduce stress hormones like cortisol in shelter dogs, with longer periods of interaction potentially yielding greater benefits.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals reports that 6.3 million pets enter U.S. shelters annually, emphasizing the need for adoption campaigns, spaying/neutering programs, and behavior rehabilitation to mitigate euthanasia rates. The 24Pet ‘Shelter Watch Report’ notes a rise in the number of dogs and cats taken in by shelters, reaching 46,807 in January 2023, compared to January 2022.
Touched by the video, TikTok users shared their emotions in the comments. One user noted, “Your dad seems like my dad. All animals and kids gravitate to him.” Another shared, “Not just a man but her grandpa, so she knows she’s safe.” Many users agreed that dogs have an innate ability to recognize good people, with one commenting, “Dogs know good people instantly.”
This heartwarming encounter serves as a poignant reminder of the positive impact love and care can have on animals. The once-terrified rescue dog finds comfort and companionship by bonding with grandpa in a truly touching and inspiring manner.