Every dog deserves a caring and loving human companion, but unfortunately, many dogs endure neglect and abuse, leaving them without the affection they need.
Ziggy was one of these dogs, having experienced a lack of love despite her gentle and sweet demeanor.
Ziggy’s journey took a turn for the better when rescuers found her abandoned near a vacant house in Florida, along with three other dogs. It is believed their owners were evicted and left them behind without food, water, or care.
Ziggy was taken to Palm Beach Animal Care and Control, where she appeared frightened and bewildered by the loud noises and crowded shelter environment.
At the shelter, Ziggy was so fearful that she couldn’t even walk on a leash and had to be carried. Her anxiety suggested she might have been used for breeding, contributing to her depressed and anxious state.
Recognizing that the shelter’s environment wasn’t ideal for her recovery, staff sought out a foster home for her.
This is when Jess Katz and her boyfriend, Steve Leone, stepped in. Known for their patience and compassion in fostering many dogs, the couple welcomed Ziggy into their home.
They created a safe space for her to acclimate at her own pace, setting up a crate where she could retreat and feel secure.
Initially, Ziggy was particularly afraid of men, leaving her in a state of longing and hesitation. Katz and Leone made sure to ease her fears gradually by giving her space and gently encouraging her progress.
Eating was challenging for Ziggy due to her anxiety, but Katz would sit beside her, offering quiet reassurance until she felt comfortable enough to eat.
Leone also made efforts to bond by lying on the floor near Ziggy’s crate, speaking soothingly, and offering gentle cuddles when she was receptive.
Over time, Ziggy began to recognize that these humans were different; they simply wanted to show her love without causing harm.
As Ziggy’s confidence grew, she started enjoying time outside with the couple’s other dogs. For the first time, she experienced playing alongside other canines, who showed her the simple joys of being a dog.
Katz noticed Ziggy’s novelty with indoor life, observing her curious interactions with mirrors as if she had never seen her own reflection.
A particularly heartwarming moment occurred when Ziggy sought affection for the first time. Katz captured a video of Ziggy cautiously approaching Leone and letting him pet her.
This video, shared on TikTok, went viral, touching the hearts of thousands who celebrated Ziggy’s brave steps forward.
Accompanied by a caption from Katz, the video depicted Leone kneeling on the floor surrounded by their dogs, including Ziggy, who tentatively joined in for affection.
For Ziggy, this was a significant breakthrough, expressing pure happiness and feeling a sense of belonging for the first time.
This touching moment resonated globally, with many on TikTok praising Ziggy’s progress. Now, thriving in her foster home, Ziggy enjoys following Katz around and actively seeks affection.
Although Katz and Leone deeply cherish her, they are unable to adopt her permanently due to their commitment to fostering other dogs in need.
They are confident, however, that Ziggy will soon find a forever family who will cherish and care for her. After all the hardships she has endured, Ziggy is finally learning the true meaning of love, safety, and comfort.
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