Dogs might not speak our language, but their emotions are often heartbreakingly clear. One golden retriever named Wally has become the internet’s latest emotional icon, after a TikTok video captured his gut-wrenching reaction to his parents leaving for vacation.
The clip, posted by @wally.meets.world, quickly went viral, resonating with pet lovers everywhere. In it, Wally is comforted by his owner as he leans against her, visibly distressed. His golden head is bowed, eyes sorrowful, and the soft growls he emits feel like a canine version of a sob.
"So we have to sleep there for five sleeps."
— @wally.meets.world
"It's okay, buddy. You're going to have fun at Grandma's, okay?" his owner says gently, rubbing his back. She tries to reassure him, but his mournful gaze never truly lifts. The caption on the video says it all: "To be fair, this is how I feel about leaving him too."
@wally.meets.world To be fair this is how I feel about leaving him too 💔#goldenretriever #dogs #doglovers #dogsarefamily #cutedog #saddog #dogmom ♬ original sound - Wally Dog 🐾
The internet feels Wally’s pain
The video quickly racked up more than 5.5 million views, with the comment section turning into a collective hug for Wally. Many viewers saw their own pets—and their own emotional struggles—in his expressive face.
"He’s not even my dog but he’s got me canceling my own vacation."
— @farihahferrari
@colocquewisher predicted, “I think you should expect a very cold shoulder when you return. I’m sad for poor Wally.”
Others shared firsthand accounts of similar goodbyes. @tierneyw21 wrote, “I went to Hawaii last year and left my golden with my best friend, someone she loves. When I got back she would not look at me for a week.”
"The saddest eyes ever."
— @meredithnewton5
@meredithnewton5 added, “I cry every time I leave my parents' home because my dog watches me leave through the fence.”
A happy ending for a good boy
Thankfully, Wally’s story didn’t end in tears. In a follow-up video that amassed over four million views, the golden retriever is reunited with someone he adores: Grandma.
@wally.meets.world Replying to @KarenE🌞 he gets soooo excited when his grandma comes to pick him up for his mini vaca. A new toy always helps 😂 #goldenretriever #dogmom #dogdad #ilovemydog #cutedogs #funnydogs ♬ original sound - Wally Dog 🐾
The moment Grandma arrives, Wally’s mood lifts instantly. A new toy sweetens the deal, and soon he’s wagging his tail, proudly showing it off and visibly buzzing with excitement. Fans were relieved to see the joyful turnaround.
Wally’s brief heartbreak and happy rebound is a tender reminder of the love pets give—and the care they deserve in return. Whether you're heading on vacation or just leaving for work, don't underestimate how much your furry companion notices. And maybe, just maybe, pack an extra treat for Grandma's house.
Want to make sure your pet feels secure while you're away? Consider leaving a piece of clothing that smells like you, or scheduling video calls if your sitter’s up for it. And for those feeling Wally-level emotions about leaving their animals behind, maybe it’s time to plan a trip that includes them, too.
Because love like this? It’s always worth planning around.
This article originally appeared last year.
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Grieving couple comforting each other
This response to someone grieving a friend might be the best internet comment ever
When someone is hit with the sudden loss of a friend or loved one, words rarely feel like enough. Yet, more than a decade ago, a wise Redditor named GSnow shared thoughts so profound they still bring comfort to grieving hearts today.
Originally posted around 2011, the now-famous reply was rediscovered when Upvoted, an official Reddit publication, featured it again to remind everyone of its enduring truth. It began as a simple plea for help: “My friend just died. I don't know what to do.”
What followed was a piece of writing that many consider one of the internet’s best comments of all time. It remains shared across social media, grief forums, and personal messages to this day because its honesty and metaphor speak to the raw reality of loss and the slow, irregular path toward healing.
Below is GSnow’s full reply, unchanged, in all its gentle, wave-crashing beauty:
Why this advice still matters
Mental health professionals and grief counselors often describe bereavement in stages or phases, but GSnow’s “wave theory” gives an image more relatable for many. Rather than a linear process, grief surges and retreats—sometimes triggered by a song, a place, or a simple morning cup of coffee.
In recent years, this metaphor has found renewed relevance. Communities on Reddit, TikTok, and grief support groups frequently reshare it to help explain the unpredictable nature of mourning.
Many readers say this analogy helps them feel less alone, giving them permission to ride each wave of grief rather than fight it.
Finding comfort in shared wisdom
Since this comment first surfaced, countless people have posted their own stories underneath it, thanking GSnow and passing the words to others facing fresh heartbreak. It’s proof that sometimes, the internet can feel like a global support group—strangers linked by shared loss and hope.
For those searching for more support today, organizations like The Dougy Center, GriefShare, and local bereavement groups offer compassionate resources. If you or someone you know is struggling with intense grief, please reach out to mental health professionals who can help navigate these deep waters.
When grief comes crashing like the ocean, remember these words—and hang on. There is life between the waves.
This article originally appeared four years ago.