For most pet parents, leaving for a trip always feels like a big deal. It is especially true in the case of a dog being left behind is a rescue pup who suffers from separation anxiety. Cactus, the rescue pup in this video, really relies on his favorite person, Michael Henry, for everything. His dad shared a moment @cactustherescue that shows exactly how deep that bond goes. Henry is heading out of town for a wedding. But he is leaving something behind to help with Cactus’ separation anxiety — a worn shirt.
Rescue pup sleeps with owner’s old shirt while he’s away
The video starts in the living room with a donut bed ready on the floor. These beds are known to reduce anxiety in dogs. The dog dad then bends down to drop a lilac-grey shirt right on top of it. Cactus steps right onto the fabric. “I’m gonna leave you my shirt while I’m gone,” Henry says, and Cactus just starts sniffing. His tail is wagging fast, and then he decides to lie down and nuzzle his snout into the fabric.
He can definitely tell his owner was wearing it. He looks happy to have that scent right there.
Henry asks him if it smells like him, and Cactus just keeps nuzzling. It is a smart move. Dogs feel a lot calmer when they can smell their favorite person. The scent is familiar and safe. “A well-loved shirt can help ease separation stress and make the house feel a little less empty,” the caption explains.
It makes sense for a rescue pup who might worry about being left. And Cactus seems to understand the idea immediately. The next part of the video cuts to him fully curled up. The shirt almost wrapped around him while he rests his head on top. Michael adds a small caption: “I think he likes it,” and over 108k people agree.
Then the clip shows him totally fast asleep. The shirt is tucked nicely underneath him. One person commented that the way he rubs his face is just too much. Another said it is the most thoughtful gesture. Someone else joked that the trip should be canceled immediately after seeing Cactus’ adorable reaction.
The post Video: Rescue Pup Sleeps With Owner’s Shirt While He Is Not Home appeared first on DogTime.
