A touching video of a rescued pit bull named Chico reacting to his owner’s loud voice has captivated over 2 million viewers on TikTok, tugging at many heartstrings.
Posted by 26-year-old Alexis Brianna (@aalexis_brianna), the clip features Chico barking while his owner Christine, 46, questions him, “Why are you upset?”
Brianna shared that they found Chico tied to a tree, covered in ants and looking unwell. “He seemed sad and sick, so my mom started talking to him,” she explained.
Although Chico began wagging his tail during the conversation, his scary appearance led them to call animal control, which never arrived. Brianna added, “My mom decided to take him back with her to work, but no one wanted him because of his size and breed.” He spent his last hour at the office showcasing his friendly nature, which convinced Christine to bring him home.
Afterward, she reached out to local shelters and the police for any lost pet reports. Following a vet visit to check for a chip and vaccinations, they waited three days before officially naming him.
‘Anxiety-Based Behavior’
Brianna noted, “His reaction may suggest trauma, though it’s often a sign of anxiety. We usually need more information about rescued pets to pinpoint exact causes.” She also shared insight from a pet behavior expert.
According to the expert, the first step in helping Chico is a medical evaluation, as discomfort can heighten sensitivity to sounds. Then, it’s crucial to create a calming environment to minimize stressors before gradually exposing him to louder noises. Consulting a behavior specialist for anxiety-related concerns is also recommended.
TikTok Community Response
Users quickly flooded the comments section, sharing their thoughts. One commenter remarked, “Oh sweet baby. He probably connects loud noises to past trauma.” Another added, “He might think you’re yelling at him because of his past experiences.” The community’s empathy and understanding reflect how deeply Chico’s story resonates with many.