Most people grumble about alarm clocks being too loud or persistent, but dog owners know there’s an alternative that can be even harder to ignore: their pets. Unlike a phone or bedside clock, a determined pup won’t stop ringing, can’t be snoozed, and certainly won’t take excuses. A new video shows exactly that, featuring a rescue puppy who has taken over morning duties so reliably that his owner hasn’t needed a traditional alarm clock in more than a year.
Zealous rescue puppy wakes owner up every morning ahead of time
Cactus, a young rescue puppy, has become much more than a pet to his owner, Mike Brown. Rescued from the deserts of California, the pup now enjoys a happy life in Miami, Florida, with dog dad and his girlfriend. His journey from stray to cherished family member has been well-documented on Instagram, where his account, @cactustherescus, has grown to more than 539K followers. Fans tune in daily to see the little dog’s adventures, quirks, and affectionate bond with his new family.
A new video posted to the page captures Cactus’ unique role as Brown’s personal “alarm clock.” The clip opens with Brown filming himself in bed, explaining to viewers that this is how he has woken up for over a year. Off-camera, the sound of insistent howls and whines fills the room.
The camera then pans to reveal Cactus at the corner of the bed, seemingly eager for his morning meal. Brown asks if he wants “foodies,” and the dog’s ears perk up instantly before he trots off toward what is presumably his breakfast spot. In the caption, the pet parent jokes, “No reason to use an alarm clock when you have a hungry dog.”
The comment section quickly filled up with people sharing their own versions of canine alarm clocks. One viewer imagined Cactus’ voice, writing, “Get up Dad, I’m hungry, time for breakfast.” Another chimed in with a story of their father’s Shih Tzu, who reliably wakes him by sitting on his chest at 6 a.m. sharp and breathing into his face. Someone else joked, “Super cute alarm clock. Where may I purchase it?” while another dog owner admitted, “I have four alarm clocks… days of sleeping in are nonexistent.”
