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A routine day at a Tennessee dog daycare turned unexpectedly emotional when a Golden Retriever named Lincoln found himself waiting alone after his usual pickup time. What followed was a quiet but deeply moving moment, now seen by millions, that offered a glimpse into just how much our dogs feel when we’re not there.
Lincoln, a bright and affectionate pup, has been a regular at Pleasant View Pet Spa and Country Boarding Retreat. His schedule is consistent: play sessions on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and family time on the days in between. On this particular afternoon, things started off like any other. He arrived, greeted the staff with his usual enthusiasm, and spent the day playing with his dog friends under the supervision of caregivers he knows and trusts.
As the day wore on and other dogs were picked up by their families, Lincoln stayed behind, unaware that a short work delay had caused his mom, Meghan, to be late. Typically, she arrives just after five. But this time, she was running a bit behind. While a delay of a few minutes might seem insignificant, for Lincoln, the emptying room and the absence of familiar faces quickly shifted his mood.
With only a staff member named Holly still by his side, Lincoln’s demeanor changed. Security footage showed him sitting quietly, slowly lowering his head, and resting against her in a clear display of sadness. There was no whining, no pacing. Just silence and stillness—a quiet moment that captured something many pet owners understand all too well.
The footage was shared on TikTok and almost instantly struck a chord. Viewers flooded the comments with personal stories and empathetic jokes. “I know his pain,” one user wrote. “I used to hate being the last one picked up in kindergarten.” Others imagined Lincoln’s internal monologue, laughing through tears. “Mom, you seeing this? I’m terribly traumatized by being left behind.”
When Meghan arrived shortly before closing, Lincoln’s entire mood shifted. His tail wagged furiously, and all was forgiven in an instant. At home, Meghan made it up to him with his favorite treats, a pup cup, and plenty of cuddles. That evening, Lincoln was back to his happy self.
Lincoln’s life with Meghan began in late 2022, joining her household as a puppy. He was guided by the family’s older dog, Oliver, who has since passed. Under Oliver’s influence, Lincoln learned quickly and grew into a loyal and loving companion. Whether visiting lakes or lounging in the backyard, he’s a dog who thrives on connection, especially with the humans he loves most.
The short video of Lincoln’s sad wait may seem like a small moment, but to many, it’s a reminder of the emotional depth animals experience. For Lincoln, being the last one left at daycare wasn’t just about waiting. It was about missing someone he loves.
And for the rest of us, it was a gentle nudge to remember that our pets feel our absence more than we often realize.
