Mike Brown, who runs the account @cactustherescue on Instagram, recently shared a video of his rescue puppy, Cactus, reacting nervously after a candle was lit at home. The video opens with Brown’s girlfriend showing the candle on a table and explaining to viewers that she believes Cactus may be afraid of fire. She mentions that she has just lit the candle, but what happened next quickly took her and Brown by surprise.
Rescue puppy goes to owner for cuddles after a candle was lit
As the video progresses, the camera pans over to Cactus. The timid puppy has climbed straight into Brown’s arms on the couch, pressing close as he receives gentle cuddles and reassurance. Brown can be heard calmly soothing him, telling Cactus that it’s just a candle and that it isn’t going to hurt him. Still, the puppy remains tucked against his body, clearly seeking comfort.
In the caption, Brown explained that candles and matches have now joined a growing list of things that startle the sensitive pup. While Cactus has been around lit candles many times before, this was the first time he had been close enough to see and hear a large match being struck. That sudden moment was enough to spook him, prompting an immediate dash into Brown’s arms.
Brown also clarified in the comments that the candle itself wasn’t the issue. According to him, it was the act of lighting it with a match that caught Cactus off guard. Once he settled down, the rescue dog quickly relaxed, which is why the candle was not blown out right away. The moment, Brown noted, was brief but revealing of how much the puppy relies on him for safety.
Some users joked that Cactus might not be scared at all and simply enjoys any excuse for extra cuddles. Others pointed out the way his face was pressed against Brown’s, calling it irresistibly sweet. Several commenters shared that Cactus clearly sees Brown as his “protector.” Many agreed that the puppy’s sensitivity only adds to his charm and makes his story even more endearing.
