As dogs age, they tend to sleep more and their senses might decrease, making it important for owners to know how to wake them up gently. In a viral TikTok video, a 14-year-old golden retriever named Barney was gently awakened by his owner after returning home. Due to his decreased sense of smell, Barney needed some extra encouragement to wake up. The video, posted by user @barneysharland, shows Barney’s adorable reaction to his owner’s gentle wake-up call, with his tail wagging and a big smile on his face.
The TikTok video quickly went viral, garnering over 2.7 million views, 248,100 likes, and 379 comments. Viewers were touched by Barney’s reaction and his clear affection for his owner. As dogs enter their senior years, they may sleep up to 18-20 hours a day, and their senses may decline. It is important for owners to approach waking them up with care to avoid startling or agitating them. This may include using a soft touch, avoiding sudden movements or bright lights, and being mindful of their hearing and vision limitations.
Owner should be aware of the changes that come with their dog’s aging process and adjust their care accordingly. As dogs grow older, they may require more rest and may experience changes in their senses. Knowing how to wake an elderly dog gently can help ensure their comfort and well-being. It is important to approach a sleeping senior dog with a delicate touch and use gradual and gentle methods to wake them up.
In the TikTok video, Barney’s owner used a soft touch and a familiar smell to gently wake him up, resulting in a heartwarming and affectionate response from the senior dog. The video serves as a reminder for all dog owners to be mindful of their pet’s needs as they age and to provide them with the care and attention they deserve. As always, it is crucial to approach waking a sleeping senior dog with tenderness and consideration to ensure their happiness and comfort in their golden years.
If you have funny or adorable videos or pictures of your pet, you can share them with Newsweek for a chance to have them featured as part of their “Pet of the Week” lineup. By showcasing the special moments shared between pets and their owners, Newsweek aims to celebrate the bond between humans and animals and highlight the joy and companionship that pets bring to our lives. Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground, including the special relationships we share with our beloved pets.
