Alexa Whittaker and her roommates discussed the idea of getting a pet, but the timing always seemed off, she told Newsweek.
Taking care of a dog is a big responsibility, requiring a person’s time and focus and with these roommates in college, they didn’t believe it was in the cards. But one fateful Tuesday they took a leap of faith when they found themselves with “extra time and energy to spare.”
The conversation that day turned into them researching, learning local animal shelters were in desperate need of foster families and reaching out to the Gulf Coast Humane Society in Florida.
“Knowing that we could provide a loving environment, it felt like the perfect opportunity to make a difference in an animal’s life while also enjoying the companionship of a dog,” Whittaker said.
Before long, the roommates welcomed home a pit bull named Remi. That spontaneous decision quickly led to precious memories for the roommates, which they shared in a February 18 TikTok video under the account @remi.birch.
While they found Remi had completed their home, the pup felt his life complete after finally getting out of the confines of the shelter. He was originally brought into the humane society in April 2023. Now, he’s living the life. He gets endless cuddles, naps and kisses from all the roommates.
“Every day spent with him is filled with laughter and warmth, as he eagerly greets me with tail wags and playful antics, instantly brightening even the toughest days,” Whittaker said.
Screenshots from a February 18 TikTok video of a group of three college girls fostering a dog who became “man of the house.”
@remi.birch/TikTok
Whittaker said that despite the negative stigmas often associated with pit bulls, Remi has been an “angel on earth” showing all the girls his unconditional love. His spirit and affection taught her about love, trust and the joys of companionship.
“Fostering Remi has been a transformative experience that truly changed my life for the better,” Whittaker said. “…He has filled my days with happiness and purpose, reminding me that true beauty often lies beyond appearances.”
For those interested in adopting Remi, or another animal, contact the Gulf Coast Humane Society for more information.
TikTok Users React
The TikTok video, which amassed over 1.5 million views as of Friday, quickly brought people to tears.
“Crying at 1 am bc he looks so appreciative for all of the love. What a good boy,” one TikTok user wrote.
Another user commented: “Only man of the house you need.”
And a third added: “Fostering is the best way to get that doggie love without the commitment and financial constraints! You’re saving soo many lives and they get to hang out with some cool kids.”
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
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