A rescue pit bull named Tonka has garnered significant attention on social media after a TikTok video showcasing his lengthy slumber attracted over 4 million views. In the widely shared clip, Tonka is seen curled up on a bed, snugly wrapped in a blanket. The video reveals that he “refused to get up and pee before I left for work,” prompting his owner to return home at 10 a.m. out of concern that he may have had an accident indoors.
Upon arrival, she finds Tonka in the same position, seemingly oblivious to her presence. As she gently approaches him, she asks, “are you still sleeping?” Tonka responds by slowly lifting his head, yawning, and rolling onto his back, clearly indicating he has no intention of moving anytime soon. This charming moment has resonated with viewers, earning the post over 680,000 likes.
The Journey of Tonka
In a follow-up video, Tonka’s owner details his backstory, revealing that he was abandoned in Detroit “on his death bed” before being rescued. This context has led many to reflect on the importance of rest for rescue dogs like Tonka.
In the comments section, the owner elaborated that Tonka is older and has cancer, which likely accounts for his excessive tiredness. However, it is also possible that his extended periods of rest are indicative of his adjustment to a loving home after a tumultuous past. A 2016 study involving 15 shelter dogs observed over five days found that these animals slept less during the day than previously reported, with many experiencing short sleep periods at night. Interestingly, daytime behavior did not strongly correlate with sleep patterns.
Dogs that spent more time resting—regardless of actual sleep—demonstrated notable signs of improved welfare, including reduced repetitive behaviors and a more relaxed demeanor. The ability to rest in a busy, stressful shelter environment may be a crucial indicator of how well a dog is coping, highlighting the complexities of sleep and well-being.
Now, Tonka enjoys a safe and loving environment, fully embracing the comfort of rest in his new home.
Public Reactions and Engagement
The TikTok post has sparked more than 1,600 comments from viewers, showcasing a blend of humor and empathy. One user quipped, “Mine will go 14 hours easy; if it’s raining, he’ll pretend he’s sleeping so he doesn’t have to go outside.” Another commented, “He doesn’t understand why you woke him up so early,” to which Tonka’s owner responded, “Acting like he didn’t just sleep 13 hours.” A third user humorously suggested, “And the Oscar for outstanding sleepy performance goes to.”
As the story of Tonka continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder of the resilience of rescue dogs and the profound impacts of love and care in their lives. The heartfelt moment captured in the video not only entertains but also raises awareness about the challenges faced by animals in shelters.
Newsweek has reached out to Tonka’s owner via TikTok for further comments but has yet to receive a response.
