A heartwarming dog has touched hearts after expressing gratitude to her owner for offering her a fresh start. Owner Kayleen Tebon explained how she began fostering Heidi, an 11 year old labradoodle, on December 31.
It wasn’t long before the lovable pup secured a place in her heart, prompting her to adopt her permanently.
Sadly, Heidi was rescued from a backyard breeder – and has probably endured a difficult life where she was deprived of everything a dog finds rewarding.
Kayleen, from Arizona, US, told Newsweek: “She was in terrible condition. Super skinny and very skittish and afraid of people.”
Following weeks of attempting to earn her trust, Kayleen was finally able to get near enough to give her a kiss on the head on January 23 – and Heidi’s response filled her heart with delight.
She has been given a second chance at life (stock) (Image: Getty)
In the footage, Heidi is shown standing beside Kayleen and even moves a step closer to her after receiving the kiss, almost as though she is expressing appreciation for her compassion.
She added: “I was surprised by her reaction I didn’t think she would take a step closer to me, just because she has been so shy and scared. It really warmed my heart.”
According to research, dogs develop an understanding of what kisses signify by observing their owners interact with each other.
They come to recognise it as positive affection even though it isn’t part of their natural behaviour. Nevertheless, dogs who have suffered abuse, neglect or have never known human kindness can struggle to comprehend what they mean.
Pet product firm Hepper, which collaborates with specialists to enhance animals’ wellbeing, explained: “Most domesticated dogs who have found a home in loving households seem to understand that human kisses are associated with affection, attention, and gentleness.
“This can be seen in how dogs often start wagging their tail, cuddling with you, and looking you in your eye when they are receiving human kisses.
“Dogs who have received human kisses from an early age are especially prone to these positive body movements, such as tail wagging and licking.
“All of these behaviours express reciprocated affection and relaxation in dogs, showing they understand they are receiving some sort of positive attention when you kiss them.
“Pet owners can encourage their dogs to appreciate kisses through various methods – beginning early, taking a gradual approach with older dogs and by adopting a soothing tone.”
The statement continues: “Since human kisses are associated with gentle behaviour, dogs tend to love human kisses and are quick to respond positively to them.” Reacting to the TikTok clip, one viewer commented: “She said, ‘What was that, that felt so nice.”
Another viewer remarked: “Awww, she got closer like, ‘OK, you are allowed to do that again’.” Meanwhile, a third viewer observed: “The head tilt says it all – she’s found her mama.”