Mabel is a Golden Retriever—just don’t tell her that. This devoted pup has taken on the roles of watchdog, nurse, and best friend to her human dad while he undergoes cancer treatment. Determined to help her favorite person heal, Mabel hasn’t left his side since his first chemotherapy session. She’s more than man’s best friend; she’s a loving caretaker who instinctively knows when her humans need extra comfort and support.
This sweet video crossed my TikTok feed and stopped me mid-scroll. The caption alone, “My husband is on Day 2 of chemo and she hasn’t left his side,” immediately brought a lump to my throat. Then came the footage of Mabel clinging to her dad’s chest as he rested in his chair, and the emotions hit hard. If Mabel isn’t proof of the healing power of dogs, it’s hard to imagine what is.
Judging by the comment section on the now-viral video, I’m not alone.
“She is a blessing,” wrote one commenter. “She senses it. She smells it. She will love on him and feel like she’s healing him.”
Another added, “Our golden does the same with my husband who’s getting chemo as well!!”
“Dogs are angels without wings!!!!” shared another.
Related: Bernese Mountain Dog Sweetly Watches Over Brother With Cancer Like the Best Caretaker
How Dogs Sense When Their Humans Are Sick
Mabel may believe she can heal her human dad, but can she really? Not exactly—but she can tell he’s sick. Dogs can sense and even smell changes in the human body associated with illness, including cancer. Highly observant by nature, they also pick up on shifts in mood, energy, and behavior. When something is off, many dogs become extra attentive, often sticking close to provide comfort.
Mabel isn’t a doctor, but she offers something just as powerful: unwavering love and emotional support. If this video is any indication of her devotion, she’s fully committed to making sure her human is never alone on his road to recovery.
Related: Zebby the Golden Retriever Savors a Head Massage and the Internet is ‘Literally Melting’
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This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Jan 2, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.