A young boy has simultaneously warmed and broken the hearts of social media users after trying to save his pet puppy.
In an emotional tale gripped social media, a 12-year-old boy named Andrés left his pitbull puppy outside an animal shelter in Michoacan, Mexico, complete with a stuffed animal and a moving letter.
As reported by CNN, the reason behind the act was that Andrés wanted to protect his furry friend from the harsh treatment of his abusive father.
The local dog rescue group immediately shared Andrés's poignant story on its Facebook page.
In his handwritten note, Andrés explained: "My name is Andrés and I am 12 years old.
"My mom and I decided to leave my dog in your hands, hiding it from my dad because he is thinking about selling him. But he mistreats and kicks him. One day he kicked him so hard that he hurt his tail. I hope you can help and take care of him."
The puppy was found alongside a heartbreaking note. Credit: Refugio Xollin
"I left him a stuffed animal so he won’t forget me," one particularly heartbreaking line read.
Rene and his stuffed animal. Credit: Refugio Xollin
After originally going viral in 2020, the public's response was immediate and overwhelming.
The post garnered more than 300 requests from people all over the country who wanted to adopt the puppy - named Rene - as the heartrending story not only touched the lives of many but also shone a spotlight on the importance of animal welfare and adoption.
While the outpour of love for Rene was incredible, the rescue group took the opportunity to remind the public that they have 120 other dogs also in need of loving homes.
Rene fortunately found a loving home eventually. Credit: Refugio Xollin
"If everyone opened their heart and their home like this little dog, they would have adopted all our dogs from the shelter," the rescuers noted in a follow-up Facebook post.
As for Rene, he went on to receive medical care from the shelter - including deworming and treatment for his injured tail - and made a healthy recovery, all thanks to Andrés's brave and selfless act.
In a world full of bad news, Andrés' heartbreaking yet uplifting act stands as a testament to the kindness that still exists.
And while Rene eventually found his forever home, it is important to remember that many more animals are in desperate need of the same love and care. So why not get in touch with your local shelter today?
