Man Thinks Wolf Has Broken In, Ends Up With New Pet

One family's routine took an unexpected turn when a man going outside to feed his chickens encountered what he thought was a wild wolf in his backyard. Little did he know, the encounter would lead to the heartwarming tale of a new family member.

Flint, who lives in Orange County, California, with his partner Xilo, told Newsweek that the moment he stumbled on the animal. "I had our 90-pound shepherd mix Stella with me, and when I turned from the coop back to the house, I saw what I thought for a moment was a wolf or a coyote standing in our garden," Flint said. "He kept his distance but let out a big, long husky howl."

Realizing the potential danger of the unknown animal, Flint retreated back to the house and told Xilo about the mysterious visitor. "The two of us spent the next few hours getting him to trust us enough to get close with food and treats," Flint said. Despite their efforts to let him leave, the dog showed no inclination to do so.

The couple started trying to find clues about where the mysterious dog had come from. "He didn't have any tags, the vet didn't find a chip, we asked around the very sparse and rural neighborhood, and we posted about him, but we haven't been able to learn anything," Flint said.

The pair named the dog Balto, and began to speculate that he had been abandoned by his owners; the rural location has previously seen other people drive unwanted animals out to leave them. "Our neighbor who's been here for 30 years says that people dump dogs like him out here every once in a while," Flint said.

For Flint and Xilo, the decision to take Balto into their home was instinctive. "It wasn't even a question," Flint said. "Xilo and I have rescued all of our animals and we believe very strongly that, if we have the space and the resources to give an animal a healthy and loving life, it's an obligation and a privilege to do that."

Since his arrival, Balto has become an important part of the family, albeit with some mischievous tendencies. "He has already destroyed a remote and my favorite Crocs," Flint said. "It's easy to forgive him. He's just a puppy, and we've got time and patience to spare."

Flint shared Balto's story on TikTok where it has gained more than 2.6 million views. Comments flooded in from people delighted by the heartwarming story and the kindness of Flint and Xilo.

"Dogs are catching on to the cat distribution system," wrote one commenter, while another viewer posted : "'lol [laugh out loud] suckers' - balto, knowing he's made it."

"I love this. Thank you for being loving," commented a third viewer, praising the couple for their kindness to the lone dog.

Another commenter was thrilled to see they had found each other: "He chose your farm because he knew he'd be safe and loved," the poster wrote.

One thing is for sure, Balto found the right home when he went wandering that day. After starting the day shivering and afraid, he spent that evening eating breakfast in bed in a safe and warm home.

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