Certain life events leave a lasting impression. Earning a degree, tying the knot, welcoming a child; these are unforgettable milestones. And buying a new home certainly deserves a spot on that list.
Though moving is a major occasion on its own, sometimes an unexpected twist makes it even more memorable. That’s precisely what unfolded for Matt Garcia and his wife after they got settled into their new Tennessee home.
They were already excited about the house, but the furry surprise that greeted them made the moment truly extraordinary.
A Sleepy Stranger At The Door
When Matt and his wife arrived at their new house in Tennessee, they expected the home itself to be the highlight. Instead, they were greeted by an unexpected visitor.
“I found something today, in our planter that kind of came as a little surprise,” this photographer from Lewisburg, Tennessee said on TikTok, referring to a ginger pup whom he found near the entrance of the house.
A Basset Hound had curled up beside their door, looking completely at peace, as if he belonged there. Though Matt and his wife are both dog lovers, they were left wondering what to do next.
“We found this little buddy in our planter, just kind of sleeping. He’s fine, but we don’t know what to do with him. We fed him, we gave him water. there’s no tag on that collar though… unfortunately.” Matt said.
“What should i do with this sweet ol dog????” he asked in the caption of the video he posted via his TikTok account @mattdotgarcia.
Viewers quickly responded with suggestions.
“Get him scanned at a local vet for a microchip 🤷🏼♀️” one user wrote.
“Put a bed on that porch for that baby,” another added.
And the third quipped: “CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR NEW DOG AND HIS HOME.”
Matt soon replied to that last comment with a simple message: “Update posted!”
The Mystery Is Solved
Just days after sharing the first video, Matt returned with a follow-up to update his followers.
The dog wasn’t lost or abandoned. He lived just across the train tracks, a few miles from Matt’s new home. His name was Copper.
The news that Copper had a home comforted many viewers, though some worried about his journey across the tracks.
One viewer offered a thoughtful tip: “If you don’t already, put a ring camera. That way you will know when he stops by and can give him treats.”
Matt mentioned that Copper hadn’t come by for a few days and that he missed seeing him. Fortunately, Copper returned not long after.
In Matt’s latest TikTok video, he was clearly happy to see Copper again. Viewers shared in the joy.
One person commented: “He needs a forever home and regular food and love. he needs YOU!”
Still, Matt had a ready answer: “So far, he seems to have himself a pretty good routine from what we can tell… he comes by and gets pets and loves + water & a little food- then he usually falls RIGHT to sleep.”
And really, what more could a dog ask for?