Owner Takes Healthy Dog To Be Euthanized, Reason Why Has Everyone Outraged
A senior dog on the verge of euthanasia has been saved after a last-minute intervention, with the circumstances behind the decision sparking outrage online.
An April 7 TikTok video posted by user @ohmyope showed Peep, an 11-year-old Chihuahua, walking through a grassy field in his foster home after rescue efforts saved him from euthanasia and gave him a new chance at life. His previous family surrendered him to an animal shelter, wanting him to be euthanized, despite no reported medical issues. Instead, the owners stated that he did not get along with their new dog.
The shelter began contacting rescue organizations in hopes of finding a placement for Peep, which is when Chihuahua Rescue Indiana stepped in. A regular foster parent with the rescue, Brandie Schroeder, welcomed Peep into her care on April 7, but the distress caused him to physically shut down.
“He didn't want to leave his crate, shaking constantly, and had horrible diarrhea,” she told Newsweek via TikTok. “He was refusing to eat and drink.”
Worried that something more serious might be wrong, such as a blockage, the foster family rushed Peep to an emergency veterinary clinic on his first night in their care. Peep spent the night for testing and received fluids.
Fortunately, tests ruled out a life-threatening condition. Instead, veterinarians determined Peep's symptoms were caused by severe stress.
From there, Peep's recovery began gradually. Over the next several days, the senior dog started to show small but meaningful signs of improvement. He ventured around the house and yard, which Schroeder said he loves being outdoors. He ate and drank, and regular bowel movements returned.
Peep has since undergone a neuter and dental procedure, during which veterinarians extracted three teeth. Schroeder noted that he is missing several additional teeth, which causes his tongue to occasionally hang out of his mouth-a harmless quirk that has only added to his charm.
Complications following the neutering surgery included a hematoma, but Schroeder said it has been improving with treatment.
Despite everything he has been through, Peep is now thriving in foster care. His personality is beginning to shine through as he settles into safety and routine.
“He loves to wander around and burrow himself into his bed like a taco,” she said. “We think he may be losing sight and hearing, but it doesn't stop him at all.”
Peep's story has also taken a hopeful turn: he has officially been listed for adoption. She posted him as available for adoption on Sunday and has since received two applications. She’s hopeful he will be adopted by the weekend, but noted the process can take time as it includes a veterinarian or reference check, a meet-and-greet and a home visit.
While Peep will likely soon receive his well-deserved happy ending, TikTok users flooded the comment section with their outrage over the circumstances and appreciation for the rescue saving him in time.
“I am too angry to write what I want to,” said a viewer, while a second echoed: “I'm sorry people are so selfish!”
Someone else commented: “More people need to realize that a dog is a lifetime commitment, NO MATTER WHAT.”
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This story was originally published April 21, 2026 at 6:38 PM.