A dog has left the internet teary-eyed after he cuddled up to his senior dog brother who is in his “final chapter.”
Hannah Moosvi (@teenytoby) ,from New Jersey, shared emotional footage of Toby, a 7-year-old Chihuahua, cuddling up to his 18-year-old senior dog brother, Huang’er. The touching footage has amassed 51,300 likes and 334,200 views.
“Huang’er has been receiving treatment for congestive heart failure for the past year. The condition is really taking its toll. Huang’er can’t walk much and needs more daily assistance,” Moosvi told Newsweek.
In the video, Huang’er is seen lying on the floor, breathing heavily, while Toby lovingly snuggles up beside him. The caption reads: “When your little pup can sense his senior brother is nearing his final chapter.”
@teenytoby/@teenytoby
Moosvi described the moment as “bittersweet.” She shared: “I am sad knowing Huang’er is getting older but it’s also sweet to see them so bonded. I’m glad Huang’er has someone to watch over him.”
Congestive heart failure (CHF) in dogs occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently, leading to a buildup of fluids in areas like the lungs, chest cavity or abdomen.
According to website CareCredit, there are common signs when a dog is nearing the end of life. These include a decrease in activity, appetite, and interest in usual activities. Huang’er, much like many senior dogs, has shown these signs as his condition progresses.
Additionally, introducing a younger dog into a senior dog’s life can bring benefits to both pets.
According to Bayside Animal Hospital, puppies bring new energy and enthusiasm, which can help a senior dog feel more active and engaged in its remaining years.
Moovsi explained: “Toby and Huang’er have a unique connection. Toby can’t be too far away from Huang’er and will check in on him regularly.
“Toby is almost 10 years younger and I believe Toby kept Huang’er ‘young’ for a while too. Now, Toby has become quite the caretaker. He alerts us whenever Huang’er has an issue. They really do everything together.”
@teenytoby/@teenytoby
The video has resonated with many viewers, who shared their own experiences of senior pet care. “We are facing the final chapter with our senior girl. If I could give up years of my life to have her forever, I would,” commented one user, Maggie.
Another user, Elle, wrote: “The way he leans his head in—lost it. I’m so glad your baby has a steady companion through the end. Wish my dogs had this bond.”
The emotional connection between Toby and Huang’er also struck a chord with other viewers: “And how they grieve…. it’s one of the hardest things to witness. One of our beloved furkids just left behind his little doppelgänger… and he is so lost without his buddy,” shared another commenter.
“Huang’er has been part of my life for almost two decades,” said Moosvi. “He’s gone through so many changes with me, but, on the inside, has always stayed the sweet little puppy who loves everyone. He is still part of everything we do.”
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