Pet parents who adopt abused animals often go through a lengthy process of gaining their trust, but one owner discovered that another dog's touch could help make the rescue feel more comfortable.
Kelly Atwood, known on TikTok as @thekellyatwood, rescued a dog, Stuart, from an abusive situation he endured at just 8 weeks old. She told Newsweek that he was "very shut down," exhausted and scared. As he was just a puppy, she wasn't worried about him getting along with her other dogs, Ryker and Shadow. It was more about making sure he was comfortable despite his trauma.
Ryker, however, took him under his wing and helped him decompress in just a matter of days. Stuart started opening up, forgetting all the hardships he experienced during his first eight weeks of life. Stuart, thanks to Ryker, learned how to play, listen to humans and be part of a pack.
Atwood explained in a July 20 TikTok video the special relationship between Ryker and Stuart and how the two instantly became "attached at the hip." The clip shows them now, nearly two years since she brought Stuart home, and the love is pouring out between them. They're sitting across from each other, exchanging kisses, which is nothing new for them.
"They sleep next to each other, they cuddle with each other, they drink from the water bowl at the same time," Atwood said. "...Their love for each other is adorable!"
Atwood was slightly surprised by Ryker immediately forming a bond with Stuart because he wasn't like that when she brought home Shadow.
"They enjoyed each other's company but seemed fine without each other and never snuggled or did things together like him and Stu do," she said.
But for some reason, Ryker knew to pay special attention to Stuart, which Atwood appreciated because she believed it helped Stuart feel comfortable and become socialized.
"He was weaned too early from his mom and we noticed very early on some minor behavioral tweaks," Atwood said. "Ryker was instrumental in showing him the ropes, teaching him how to play, and modeling great behavior for him."
Viewer Reactions
The TikTok clip amassed more than 17,700 views, 1,748 likes and 80 comments as of Tuesday with hearts melting over the sweet interaction between the dogs.
"They are now brothers and will protect each other for life," said a viewer.
A second added: "Best thing for a rescue dog is a dog friend."
Another commented: "Love is definitely the biggest healer love can heal any broken heart."
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