Senior Dog Melts Hearts with Gentle Wake-Up Routine

Unlike humans who happen to value their sleep, dogs generally don’t hold a grudge when they get woken up, even if rudely so. Many dogs even see it as an opportunity to play, cuddle, or eat. This is especially true for Vandy, an 11-year-old Maltese whose daily wake-up routine has captured the hearts of many on social media.

@viva.la.vivi

Every day i cry 😭🥹💕 #maltese #dog #small

♬ congratulations by mac miller – Hannah

Vandy doesn’t mind being woken up because, to him, it means kisses and affection are on their way. However, owner Viviana Valeria understands the importance of not startling her senior dog when she returns home so she always approaches him carefully and quietly. According to animal well-being specialists, stroking or patting a sleeping dog can sometimes frighten them, particularly if they have a nervous disposition.

In a TikTok video posted on May 8 by user @viva.la.vivi, Vandy is seen pleasantly slumbering on his mini-dog couch. Valeria waits patiently and speaks softly to him, avoiding any abrupt movements. As Vandy slowly awakens, he processes who has come home, and his expression shifts from confusion to pure joy.

Valeria’s daily routine of gently waking Vandy never fails to delight her. His reaction is filled with unconditional love and excitement, making every return home a precious moment. The caption of the video reads: “Every day I cry,” reflecting the overwhelming affection Valeria feels. In the video, she softly calls Vandy “little boy” as he transitions from sleep to wakefulness. Once he recognizes her, his face lights up, and he eagerly jumps off the couch to greet her with a wagging tail and demands kisses.

Vandy’s endearing reaction is a daily occurrence, Valeria explains. Even the sound of her keys gently rattling is usually enough to wake him, although his senior age means it can take a few moments for him to fully register her presence. “It usually takes him a while to register,” Valeria said. “He’s usually in a pretty deep sleep. And once he does it’s over! His tail is wagging like crazy and he begs to be picked up and smooched!”

The video quickly went viral, amassing over 350,000 views and 68,000 likes. Viewers were charmed by Vandy’s sweet demeanor and Valeria’s gentle approach. “They sleep so perfect and when they wake up with smoosh face,” one viewer commented. Another added, “He sleeps like an angel,” while a third said, “He gets smoosh nap face like my baby girl! I love this gentle little wake-up for him.”

One TikToker aptly summarized the sentiment: “What a life he’s living. So cute!”

Valeria and Vandy’s heartwarming daily ritual is a testament to the deep bond between pets and their owners. It also highlights the special care required for senior pets, who may need a little extra time and gentleness as they age. Through her gentle wake-up routine, Valeria ensures that Vandy’s golden years are filled with love and comfort, capturing moments that resonate with pet lovers everywhere.

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