Rescue Dog's Reaction to Surprise Visit From Gran Melts Hearts: 'Pure Joy'

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Grandparents are best known for spoiling their grandchildren and it seems this unwritten rules applies to dogs as well.

In a viral TikTok video shared to @annatherescue, a Pitbull terrier mix rescue dog couldn't be happier to see her grandma as she immediately jumps up with joy and spins around twice.

Owner Ava, 25, told Newsweek: "Anna and my mom have such a special and unique bond!"

The heartwarming clip has amassed 1.8 million views in just 24 hours and people cannot get enough of Anna's zoomies. At one point, it even sounds like she says "hello."

Dog screenshot
Two screenshots showing Anna's reaction when she saw her owner's mom. She can barely contain her excitement and manages to do two zoomies despite suffering with mobility issues. Ava/TikTok/@annatherescue

Ava, who lives in Connecticut said: "I rescued Anna from OKC Animal Welfare in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

"She met my mom when I brought her home and they instantly connected despite Anna being shy and reluctant towards most others at the time."

The on-screen text reads: "Anna's reaction to being surprised by her Grandma."

Previously, Newsweek spoke to veterinarians to find out what signs indicate that you are your dog's favorite person. And it seems like grandma is certainly one of Anna's, as she displayed two of the eight signs during the short clip.

Anna, who is 3 years old, immediately locks eyes with her grandma and continues to keep eye contact with her, which is a huge sign of trust. She also wiggles her body and can't stop wagging her tail which is a clear sign of affection, according to Kait Hembree, a veterinary behavior nurse. Other tell-tale signs include:

  • They are relaxed around you
  • They show affection
  • They follow you everywhere
  • They want to sleep near you

It is noticeable that Anna doesn't move from the sofa, despite being delighted by her guest's arrival. This is most likely due to several health complications that she has been suffering from since March 2023.

After multiple X-rays and CT scans, she was diagnosed with degenerative joint disease which refers to arthritis and hip dysplasia, meaning one or both of her hips grew abnormally when she was a puppy. She also suffered bilateral cranial cruciate ligament tears that affect the knee joint.

Ava told Newsweek: "Anna has been struggling for the past few months with her mobility, and my mom has been with us for every step of the way, which only made them grow closer.

"My mom has such a caring, uplifting, yet gentle soul, which I believe is the reason Anna absolutely adores her and instantly felt safe with her. Anna's grandma always surprises her with delicious snacks and treats. Anna's favorite is my mom's homemade turkey meatballs. She definitely spoils her!"

On October 24, Anna underwent major surgery in a bid to fix her health issues and give her another shot at life. The owner couldn't have done it without Anna's kind-hearted followers as they helped raise $7,500 to foot the vet's bill.

The viral video captioned: "Anna was surprised by her Grandma before surgery tomorrow morning and she was soooo happy. We will keep you all updated as best we can tomorrow," has racked up 310,000 likes.

Many comments wished the canine the best of luck for the surgery.

"The pure joy of seeing her grandma," said one user.

"And people try to tell us animals don't have emotions. Good luck on your surgery, little one!" said another.

Another comment with 13,500 likes said: "Awwww her controlled zoomies."

Update 10/26/23 4:28 a.m. ET: This article has been updated with comment from the OP and original content.

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.

About the writer

Lucy Notarantonio is Newsweek's Senior Lifestyle and Trends Reporter, based in Birmingham, UK. Her focus is trending stories and human interest features ranging from health, pets and travel. Lucy joined Newsweek in August 2022 and previously worked at Mercury Press and Media and other UK national newspapers, the Australian Women Magazines and The New York Post. My focus is human-interest stories ranging from relationships to health, fitness, travel, and home. I am always on the lookout for relationships that go against the "norm" such as age-gap ones along with incredible weight loss stories aimed to inspire and motivate others. Languages: English She is a Derby University graduate You can get in touch with l.notarantonio@newsweek.com.


Lucy Notarantonio is Newsweek's Senior Lifestyle and Trends Reporter, based in Birmingham, UK. Her focus is trending stories and human ... Read more