A dog who was repeatedly used to breed new litters was finally adopted over the summer, and is now grateful for every second of freedom.
When dog-lover Hannah, from Milton Keynes, U.K. went to pick up her new West Highland Terrier puppy, Heidi, in 2022, she had no idea that she would soon be rescuing another. Hannah recalls seeing the mom of the litter, named Matilda, looking forlorn and exhausted, and it was clear that she too needed a loving home.
When Matilda was finally retired from breeding in August of this year, Hannah adopted her and welcomed her into the family. It hasn't been easy for the six-year-old dog to adjust to her new life, but Hannah told Newsweek that "she was terrified of the world and needed us just as much as a puppy would."
It has been a beautiful experience for Hannah to observe Matilda's progress and watch her grow in confidence with each day. Walks have become a highlight of both their days, and Matilda can't help but take a moment to appreciate her surroundings and soak it all in.
"Matilda had never seen beyond her kennel, so walks were initially overwhelming for her, and she would refuse to move," Hannah said. "We carried her until she got more comfortable, and now she trots, sniffs, and fully engages with the world around her.
"Moments like this are a reminder of the progress she has made. She's not the overwhelmed dog she used to be, she's confident, inquisitive, and happy. The times she has stopped to look at the view, or to take in the scents, she would stay forever if she could."
A 2023 study looking at the behavior of dogs who were rehomed after being used for breeding found that difficulty training the dog was reported by 34 percent of owners, and house-training issues were noted by 18 percent of new owners.
The findings highlighted that increased sociability in the kennels created less fear and better training ability once the dog was adopted. In order to improve a dog's long-term welfare, and ease the transition into retirement, breeders are encouraged to try reward-based training and gentle handling with their dogs, to help them interact with people and show the importance of regular positive training.
Although she's only six years old, it's believed that Matilda had around 27 puppies over the last five years, so breeding was all she ever knew. Fortunately, she's now thriving in her new home alongside one of her pups, Heidi.
On November 2, Hannah shared a clip of Matilda on her TikTok account (@heidi_and_matilda), showing the moment the pooch breathed in the fresh air during her daily walk. Alongside the precious moment, the caption read: "Our rescue likes to stop and take it all in sometimes. It's so new. All she's ever known is the farm and puppies."
The outpouring of love for the video, which has more than 8,000 views and 500 likes so far, has been heartwarming for Hannah to see. "People have messaged to thank me for taking her on, but the pleasure is all mine," she told Newsweek.
"She's an absolute gem, she wiggles in excitement when I return, after even five minutes in a different room. Plus, she is incredibly grateful and tells us all the time with kisses and cuddles. I would absolutely encourage everyone to consider adoption, it's so rewarding to watch vulnerable dogs transform into beautiful happy little creatures."
Many TikTok users have commented on Hannah's post to share their gratitude that Matilda is living a happy life now. One comment read: "So happy and sad for her all in one emotion!"
Another person responded: "She knows she is blessed and loved now. That's a happy dog."
"This is so beautiful," wrote another social media user.
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
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