This rescue dog's gesture after being adopted is winning hearts: 'He's such a sweet boy'

Editor's note: This article was originally published on March 27, 2023. It has since been updated.

Loki, the rescue dog, has stolen the hearts of millions after a TikTok video posted by his new owner gained traction online. The one-year-old pup was adopted by Abigail Arellano from the Oconee Humane Society in Seneca, South Carolina. The brief clip captures Loki sitting upright in the passenger seat of Arellano's car and gazing at his new owner, with one of his front paws resting on her hand. Arellano added a note in the video's corner, "I just adopted this dog and he held my hand the whole way home. He's such a sweet boy."

The heartwarming video quickly gained people's attention on TikTok, receiving 6.9 million views in just six days. Many people were touched by the bond between Loki and his new owner, with some even admitting to shedding a tear or two. The video also brought attention to the Oconee Humane Society and the importance of adopting rescue animals.

According to The State, Arellano works as a veterinary technician for the clinic that aids the shelter where Loki came from. In a follow-up video, she explained that Loki was sick soon after arriving at the shelter and needed somewhere to go home. “He was on anti-nausea meds, everything like that. He needed somewhere to go home because he couldn’t stay at the clinic all the time … he was too sick to go back to the adoption floor,” she said.

Loki's story is a reminder of the incredible impact that adoption can have on the lives of rescue animals. When we adopt a pet from a shelter, we are not just giving them a home, but we are giving them a chance at a better life. Many rescue animals come from difficult situations, such as neglect or abuse and often require extra care and attention. But as Loki's story shows, the love and companionship we receive from these animals are immeasurable.

Adopting a pet is also a great way to combat the issue of pet overpopulation. According to the ASPCA, approximately 6.5 million animals enter U.S. shelters each year and around 1.5 million of them are euthanized due to a lack of space and resources. By adopting a pet, we are helping to reduce the number of animals in shelters and giving them an opportunity to find their forever homes. 

Moreover, it is pivotal to remember that not all rescue animals are sick or have behavioral issues. Many animals end up in shelters simply because their owners can not take care of them anymore. And just like Loki, they deserve a second chance at a happy and fulfilling life. If you are considering adopting a pet, take the time to research different shelters and rescue organizations in your area. By adopting a rescue animal, you will not only be saving a life, but you will also be gaining a loyal and loving companion.