6K Views 2 years ago

Senior Dog’s First Night in New Home Captures Hearts: ‘Thinks I’m His Mom’

Author Bio

Rachael Renee has been a professional freelance writer since 2000. In that time she has... Read More

Get ready to grab some tissues! A heartwarming slideshow of a senior dog named Taro adjusting to his new home has gone viral, bringing worldwide tears to viewers’ eyes.

Shared on TikTok by @marushaxr, the video documents Taro’s first night after being adopted, showing the sweet moments as he quickly bonds with his new human, Marusha, in their Austrian home.

Marusha shared with Newsweek, “We had three family dogs before, but after the tragic death of our last dog, my mom decided to stop having dogs because she couldn’t bear the heartbreak when they die. I felt really empty without one and decided to have my first own dog in January.”

Determined to give a home to a dog that might otherwise be overlooked, Marusha found the 11-year-old Taro through a rescue organization that saves dogs from dire situations in Romania. Initially named Degal, Marusha renamed him Taro, which means “older brother” or “first child” in Japanese.

Taro had a rough start in life with an abusive human. “When it was finally time to pick Taro up, he was super scared. But I gave him time to sniff me before signing the adoption papers, and we brought him home,” Marusha said. The viral slideshow captures Taro’s quick transformation as he realizes he’s finally safe and loved.

“I could see relief in him; he was immediately extremely cuddly and chose me as his owner,” Marusha shared. Despite his initial fear and stubbornness, especially about walking and navigating stairs, Taro adapted quickly. Within days, he responded to his new name and basic requests in German. Their bond deepened further when Marusha got a seasonal illness soon after adopting Taro, allowing them to spend uninterrupted time together at home.

“Since then, he has become very attached to me. He follows me everywhere, even into the bathroom when I shower,” Marusha said.

The Humane Society of Macomb explains that many animals are surrendered due to various circumstances, such as behavioral issues, changes in living situations, or financial constraints. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals reports that about 6.3 million pets enter U.S. shelters annually, and roughly 920,000 are euthanized each year. Efforts to promote adoption and reduce euthanasia rates include spaying and neutering programs and behavior rehabilitation.

Despite Taro’s challenging past and health issues related to his age and previous lack of exercise, Marusha’s dedicated care has transformed him. “He loves to walk, cuddle, and play. He’s still scared of men but is incredibly loyal and loving towards me and my family. My mom always says that he’s smiling.”

Because Taro used to be kept in a cage and couldn’t walk for the entire day, he now has terrible joints. Luckily, Marusha’s aunt is a veterinarian, ensuring Taro gets the necessary treatments to improve his health.

The video has become a hit on TikTok, garnering over 211,200 views and 33,500 likes. One TikTok user, Shoshanna, commented: “Thank you for finding him… you are an amazing person and he knows you are the best 100 percent.” Another user, Sea.blue.percy, wrote, “He’s exactly like my German shepherd.. professional drama queens.”

Taro’s story is a beautiful reminder of the joy and love that adopting a senior pet can bring, proving that it’s never too late for a fresh start and a loving home.

We encourage everyone thinking of getting a pet to only adopt instead of shopping and use this amazing pet adoption search tool by WildWatchers to find shelter animals near you!