There’s nothing quite as heartwarming as witnessing a rescue dog find their forever home and thrive. Take Theodore, for example—a spirited one-eyed dog who has captured hearts across TikTok. At 12 years old, Theodore defies the typical image of an elderly dog, showcasing playful, puppy-like energy that has enchanted viewers worldwide.
A video of Theodore, shared by his human @care1249 on September 7, has gone viral, amassing over 550,000 views. In the clip, Theodore’s antics are likened to those of a “baby gremlin,” highlighting his youthful spirit despite his age. His human describes how Theodore, while older, demands attention with his playful antics and toy-fetching requests.
Theodore’s journey to happiness is particularly poignant given his background. This vibrant Yorkshire terrier mix was rescued from euthanasia, emphasizing that he wasn’t ready to give up. Now, he’s thriving in his new home, demonstrating the power of love and second chances.
Sadly, Theodore’s story is not the norm for many shelter animals. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), approximately 390,000 dogs and 530,000 cats are euthanized each year. While this number has significantly decreased from around 2.6 million in 2011, the need for adoption remains critical. Many people are choosing to adopt from shelters, but senior dogs like Theodore often face neglect.
