It is almost impossible to imagine a dog spending nine years on this earth without ever knowing the simple joy of a squeaky toy or a soft bed. That was the heartbreaking reality for Bruce, a senior rescue who spent nearly a decade confined to a small shed in a puppy mill. The family at @seniorboybruce shared a video that beautifully documents his journey from a terrified, shut-down survivor to a confident family member.
Golden Retriever builds a special bond with ‘lamb chop’ toy in video
When this Golden Retriever first arrived at his new home in Fort Wayne, he spent a full week ignoring every plaything offered, clearly having no concept of what they were for. But everything changed the day his parents brought home a plush Lamb Chop toy. It was essentially “love at first sight” for Bruce. For a breed that is evolutionarily wired to carry things gently in their mouths, this plushie provided a much-needed outlet for his natural instincts.
Once Bruce realized the plushie was his to keep, his entire personality shifted. He began carrying it everywhere — around the living room, out on his walks, and even tucking it between his paws for naps. As his owners put it, “The story of Bruce & Lamb Chop” became one of healing, with the toy acting as a literal security blanket that helped his confidence soar.
The transformation is visible in the footage. Bruce goes from wedging himself into tight corners out of fear to happily surveying a growing collection of Lamb Chops in various sizes. While he still deals with some lingering anxieties from his past, having his toy nearby makes the world feel much safer. His wagging tail is proof.
Over 154,000 people have liked the video, with many fellow rescue owners sharing that their pups also use these specific toys as emotional support babies. It seems like Bruce is making up for those nine lost years by surrounding himself with as many Lamb Chops as the couch and floor can possibly hold.
