A video capturing the precious moment a senior dog wakes up from a nap has taken the internet by storm, amassing an impressive 4.8 million views.
The video features MollyDoodle, an almost 19-year-old Italian greyhound mix, peacefully lying in bed. As she opens her eyes and lets out a little yawn, the caption reveals that she was being woken up for a “proof of life check.”
The Instagram video has melted the hearts of viewers with its endearing charm.
Owner Ryan Graney, hailing from the Finger Lakes region in New York, expressed:
“Being a caregiver for an old soul in their final chapter is the ultimate act of love and compassion.”
MollyDoodle has been Graney’s faithful companion since she was just 6 months old. However, with nearly two decades passing, Graney is aware that their time together may be limited.
In fact, MollyDoodle has already surpassed the average life expectancy of 14 to 15 years for her breed, according to The American Kennel Club (AKC).
The video, titled “She was sleeping a little too hard for my liking. Know what I mean?”, has collected over 343,000 likes since its posting on January 17.
Graney acknowledges the challenges that come with caring for an elderly dog. Dealing with illnesses and experiencing anticipatory grief can be overwhelming at times.
Medications and vet appointments may become a lot to handle.
Nevertheless, Graney remains steadfast, believing that every effort made contributes to the comfort of their beloved companion. For Graney, it’s all worth it.
The video resonated with many viewers who shared their own experiences in the comments.
One person humorously remarked, “I say PULSE CHECK! When I try to say her name and she doesn’t wake up because she’s pretty much deaf. Scares the c*** out of me!!!”
Graney also revealed that MollyDoodle’s journey from being an energetic pup, always running and jumping around, to her current state of developing cataracts and losing her vision is a common occurrence in elderly dogs.
According to the VCA animal hospital website, cataracts occur when the lens inside the eye becomes cloudy or opaque, impairing vision. This change is typical in older dogs.