There are some rescue dogs who carry the weight of their past with them, where every moment outside their safe spot requires a massive act of courage. Tom, the Beagle, is an example here. In the clip shared by @eric.and.joey, we see him trot in from the living room — quick little steps, ears slightly unsure — straight toward Eric.
The video is part seven of foster dog Tom’s journey after he and dozens of other dogs were pulled from hoarding cases. And because Eric and Joey are known for transforming the lives of shelter dogs, it already feels like we’re watching a turning point for a pup who’s only just started learning what safety actually feels like.
Foster fog ‘chooses courage’ and reaches new milestone in video
Tom’s story has drawn in over 174K likes and deserves many, many more. After all, it’s about witnessing a small win that means everything. The video flashes back to the early days when Tom barely left the corner of the couch, tucked into one spot, and trembling anytime someone moved. Eric’s voice is soft as he pets him: “It’s okay, you’re a good little guy… just takes some warming up, yeah?” It’s the kind of reassurance that dogs from tough situations cling to.
Then we see a more recent moment in the kitchen, Tom on leash, taking hesitant steps while Eric jokes, “Make some eggs?” The on-screen text reads, “But today something changed…” and you feel it instantly. Eric decides to unclip the leash just to see what Tom might choose on his own. “I’m expecting him to go run onto the couch,” he says — the safe zone.
Instead, Tom heads toward the living room, glances at his familiar corner… and then pivots right back to Eric. That tiny detour says everything. “Look at you. You came back,” Eric reacts, half shocked, half proud.
As the video goes on, Tom sticks close, following Eric step for step around the kitchen. “He could’ve chosen his safe spot,” the text reads, “but he chose courage.” And that becomes the theme of the whole clip. Tom eventually settles beside Eric, curled up but still alert, taking comfort in soft pets and gentle words: “We’re just buddies hanging out, yeah?”
The final shot shows him hopping onto the couch with noticeably more confidence is tear-jerking. And the text sums it up nicely: “This is Tom realising he’s finally safe.” Judging by the comments, everyone watching felt that shift too.
