We all wish for a world without animal neglect, abandonment, or abuse, but the harsh reality is that many animals continue to suffer daily due to heartless actions. Abandoned dogs, left to survive on their own, are a sadly common sight. Even those with loving homes can carry scars from previous trauma inflicted by uncaring humans. In a heartbreaking example, a woman from Tennessee shared an emotional moment with her distressed dog, Max, in a car.
On September 17, 2024, TikTok user @hairbymariahjewell posted a video of herself comforting Max, who clung to her shoulder during the ride. Max’s visible anxiety was difficult to watch, and Mariah explained the tragic reason behind his reaction. The video quickly drew attention to the lasting effects of abandonment on animals and the deep emotions they carry.
The video states: “To the person that decided to leave him on the side of the road, scared and alone, he may have just been a dog to you, but this sweet boy deserves to enjoy car rides, but instead he is traumatized and scared,” Mariah wrote in the video. She continued with a heartfelt plea: “I am getting to mend a sweet spirit that never deserved to be broken, please do not leave them stranded and alone, they depended on you, take them to a [no euthanasia] shelter, let a family choose them.”
Her final words resonated deeply: “Do not let them go through this pain.”
A children's doctor had been evicted and had left items behind when she left. Among them was something alarming: a plastic storage bin, where a dog had been locked inside. If someone is this cruel to a small, defenseless dog, how can they continue to treat children as a doctor?
Captioned “My sweet Max,” the video quickly went viral, with viewers expressing both sorrow and outrage over Max’s trauma. Many commented on how much his pain moved them. Others expressed relief that Max ended up with such a caring mom.
One user summed up a common sentiment: “They are NOT just dogs!!! They are God’s way of making sure we always have a best friend! We don’t deserve dogs!!!” Another said: “The way he crawls up to cuddle closer to you. You’re his person now.”
This powerful video serves as a reminder that animals aren’t just pets—they’re companions who love deeply. Stories like Max’s not only bring awareness but hopefully inspire empathy, preventing others from facing a similar fate. And for those who treat animals cruelly, may justice hold them accountable.
Toledo, United States.
