Some rescue stories hit you right in the chest, especially when they involve a dog who has never known anything but fear and survival. Tom Collins, a Beagle with zero human interaction in his past, spent his life sleeping on a cold garage floor and avoiding people because he never learned the world could be kind. When shelter staff first took him in, they warned his foster family that he would not eat if anyone watched. They told them to place his bowl down, walk away, and give him space, because Tom Collins believed being seen was unsafe.
But everything changes once he arrives at his foster home. In the touching video, his foster dad quietly opens the crate door and steps back. At first, he hesitates, peeking out with wide, uncertain eyes. Then, with slow and careful steps, he walks out into the warm room. Instead of running or hiding, he moves toward the sofa, carefully jumps up, and gently curls into the cushions like he cannot believe softness is real. The moment his body relaxes, you can see something shift. He is not just resting. He is realizing, maybe for the first time in his life, that he is safe.
This video was uploaded to the TikTok account @eric.and.joey, and the caption reads, “A big moment happened this morning… he came out of his crate all by himself! A new chapter has opened for Tom, and he’s beginning to learn what it’s like to live! Tom is available for adoption @Border Tails Rescue in Northbrook, IL.”
One person in the comments suggests, “Keep talking to him. Even if you’re getting a glass of water, “Hey Tom, I’m going to the kitchen to get a drink. Want me to bring you anything?” Stuff like that.”
Related: Rescued Dog at the Groomer Keeps Checking to See If His Mom Is Still There
Someone else noticed, “He kept looking for reassurance, making sure he was allowed on the couch.” Another person added, “You said you are so proud of him. You should be very proud of yourself. Well done, mate.”
Viewers are saying things like this is the first day of his real life, and seeing him choose the couch made me tear up. It is the kind of transformation that unfolds in tiny steps, but each one matters.
If you are considering fostering a dog this holiday season, and what a wonderful thing to do, keep reading for tips.
How To Make a Foster Dog Feel Secure
Helping a fearful foster dog settle in starts with giving them control over their space. Offer a crate or quiet corner where they can relax without anyone approaching. Keep early interactions calm and let them come to you instead of reaching for them. Use soft voices, gentle movement, and consistent routines around meals and potty breaks. Avoid crowded rooms or overwhelming environments in the first few days. Many dogs, especially those with no human experience, build trust slowly through patience, stability, and the freedom to explore at their own pace. Over time, small moments like choosing the couch or accepting a treat become signs that they finally feel safe.
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This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Nov 26, 2025, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.