14 Million People Stopped Scrolling for This Dog Shivering in the Rain
A heart-wrenching video of a PETA fieldworker comforting a chained “backyard” dog left shivering in the pouring rain has gone viral—with more than 14 million views across social media platforms. Learn more about why this clip packs such an emotional punch, and how you can help support this vital work.
Video of Dog Left Outside in the Rain Steals the Hearts of Millions
In just 18 seconds, the clip exposes the silent suffering of countless dogs forced to live outdoors. Alone, drenched, and desperate for kindness, this dog’s situation is all too common. This was 18 seconds of a typical day for PETA’s fieldworkers and a “backyard” dog, kept chained outdoors and forced to endure all weather extremes.
The viral clip also highlights the unwavering compassion of PETA’s Community Animal Project (CAP) fieldworkers. PETA’s team drives about four hours every day to help animals in rural Virginia and North Carolina and sees dogs just like her multiple times a day. No matter the circumstances, PETA’s CAP team makes sure someone is there to help animals in need.
PETA’s team works in areas where many people are unfamiliar with the idea of allowing dogs inside. We work where the law allows dogs to be outside, chained or penned around the clock—something we are actively lobbying to change. PETA fieldworkers do everything legally possible to make life more comfortable for the many dogs forced to endure long, grueling days outside. We plead with owners to bring their dog indoors or let PETA find them a family that will keep them inside, and we return time after time when we are refused.
When owners refuse to relinquish their dogs or bring them inside, PETA’s fieldworkers fill empty water and food bowls, apply flea treatment to stop relentless itching, bring toys to help reduce boredom, replace heavy chains with lightweight tie-outs, and offer the physical affection that so many are deprived of. For one dog, Rusty, it took nearly a decade of us begging. PETA’s team kept showing up for him until his owner agreed. Now he’s spending his golden years loved and respected in his new home.
18 Seconds Revealed a Glimpse of a Lifetime of Misery: How You Can Help
Millions of “backyard dogs” across the country face the same neglect as the dog left out in the rain did, every single day. No viral video can show everything they go through—but it can inspire action.
PETA works with people nationwide to advocate for tethering bans in their communities. An effective way to help “backyard dogs” is to work with elected officials to pass ordinances that ban or restrict chaining. To get started, see what current legislation on tethering dogs exists in your community.
Dogs should never be left outside unattended, but when they’re outside and deprived of access to water or shelter, the situation becomes an emergency—and you should contact local authorities right away. If they are unresponsive, contact PETA for help. Dogs’ well-being—even their lives—could depend on you.
