A rescue pit bull named Tonka has become an internet sensation after a TikTok video showcasing his extended slumber garnered over 4 million views. The clip features Tonka, a brown-and-white dog, comfortably nestled in a blanket on his bed. Text on the screen reveals that he “refused to get up and pee” before his owner left for work, prompting her to rush home at 10 a.m. to check on him. Upon her arrival, she finds Tonka in the same cozy position, and when she asks, “are you still sleeping?” he lazily lifts his head, yawns, and rolls onto his back, signaling that he has no plans to rise just yet. This adorable moment has resonated with viewers, earning more than 680,000 likes.
The follow-up video from Tonka’s owner reveals more about his backstory. Abandoned in Detroit, he was found in a critically poor condition before being rescued. This context adds depth to Tonka’s current lifestyle, highlighting the importance of rest for rescue dogs.
Understanding the Importance of Rest for Rescue Dogs
In the comments section, the owner noted that Tonka is older and battling cancer, which likely contributes to his fatigue. Excessive sleeping can also indicate a dog’s adjustment to a new, supportive environment after facing trauma. A study conducted in 2016 observed 15 shelter dogs over five days, revealing that dogs generally slept less during the day than previous research suggested. While their nighttime sleep consisted of shorter periods, those that spent more time resting exhibited signs of improved welfare. These dogs displayed less repetitive behavior, seemed more relaxed around staff, and made more optimistic choices in judgment tests.
In busy and stressful shelter settings, the ability to rest could serve as a significant indicator of how well a dog is coping. Tonka, now secure and surrounded by love, is clearly embracing this newfound opportunity for rest.
Social Media Response to Tonka’s Charm
The TikTok post featuring Tonka has attracted over 1,600 comments. Viewers have shared humorous anecdotes about their own pets, with one commenting, “Mine will go 14 hours easy; if it’s raining, he’ll pretend he’s sleeping to avoid going outside.” Another user quipped, “He doesn’t understand why you woke him up so early,” while Tonka’s owner humorously responded, “Acting like he didn’t just sleep 13 hours.” A third viewer jokingly remarked, “And the Oscar for outstanding sleepy performance goes to.”
As Tonka continues to capture hearts online, viewers are reminded of the resilience and spirit of rescue animals. His story not only entertains but also sheds light on the importance of providing a nurturing environment for dogs who have experienced hardship. Newsweek attempted to reach out to Tonka’s owner via TikTok for further comment but could not verify the details of his case.
