When Lauren, 33, met 5-year-old Peggy the dog at a rescue in 2024, she had no idea she’d found a companion that would become a huge part of her life.
Peggy, a Staffordshire bull terrier cross, was at Basildon Dogs Trust in the U.K. where she was taken after being rescued from Ireland where it is believed she was used for breeding.
“I don’t know much about Peggy other than she was used for breeding and was from Ireland,” Lauren, who didn’t give a surname, told Newsweek. “She had obvious signs of recent breeding when I initially met her. I had to wait for her to be spayed before she could come home with me.”
As a first-time dog owner, Lauren waited six months to be matched with the right dog. That patience paid off. “The Dogs Trust really found me the perfect dog because she has the most gorgeous temperament,” she said. “She absolutely loves all people and dogs.”
In 2024, approximately 5 million animals entered U.S. shelters and rescues, according to Shelter Animals Count—an increase of nearly 3 percent from 2023. By the end of the year, 103,000 more pets had entered shelters than had exited, contributing to an ongoing capacity crisis in U.S. shelters.
In a heartwarming video on TikTok, Lauren shared just how thrilled she is that they found each other. In the text overlay she said: “The universe really said we will give you the sweetest rescue girl and she will be obsessed with you and give you all the unconditional love in the world.”
The camera pans to show Peggy, sitting right next to her owner while she watches TV and staring up adoringly at her.
“She stares at me quite a lot. My parents tell me every time I walk around our home she watches me all the time,” Lauren said. “My favorite thing about her is that even though she was, I can assume used to financial gain, the love that she has provided me since I have brought her home, no money could ever put a price on that love I feel from her.”
The video gained thousands of views on TikTok and in the comments fellow pet lovers shared their joy at Peggy’s heartwarming staring.
“Her face! She’s perfect,” said viewer Jack. While another viewer said: “That beautiful little face is so full of love.”
“She’s a beautiful girl, and lucky to have been rescued by you,” said another TikToker.
“I share all of her life on TikTok and she seems to have a happy following of supportive people,” Lauren said. “The reaction to my latest photo has been lovely to see. Sometimes people can understandably be wary of dogs, but she honestly is just so loving and it’s lovely to see that people feel the same way about her through the video.”
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