Every pup deserves a human who will care for them with patience, love, and kindness.
Unfortunately, that is not the reality for many dogs. Those who come from neglectful or abusive homes often grow up never experiencing what true affection feels like.
Ziggy was one of those unfortunate souls. Despite her sweet and gentle nature, she never received the love she craved in her previous home.
Her story took a hopeful turn when rescuers found her abandoned near a vacant house in Florida, together with three other dogs.
It is believed that their owners had been evicted and left them behind without food, water, or care.
A Frightened Pup At The Shelter
Ziggy was brought to Palm Beach Animal Care and Control. The moment she arrived, it was clear she was terrified. The loud noises, the crowded space, and the stress of the shelter environment only deepened her trauma.
She was so frightened she couldn’t even walk on a leash. Staff members had to carry her from one place to another.
Her caregivers also suspected that she had likely been used for breeding, which may have explained her anxious and defeated demeanor.
Knowing Ziggy would not be able to recover in such a setting, the shelter staff began searching for a foster home.
That’s when they reached out to Jess Katz and her boyfriend, Steve Leone. The couple had fostered countless dogs over the years and were known for their patience and compassion.
They immediately said yes, arriving at the shelter ready to give Ziggy a safe space. At home, they set up a crate where she could retreat and start adjusting at her own pace.
Struggling To Trust Again
It didn’t take long to notice that Ziggy was especially afraid of men. She wanted to be close but fear always held her back, leaving her frozen between longing and hesitation.
Katz and Leone decided to take things slowly. They gave her space, encouraged her gently, and celebrated even the smallest progress.
Gentle Care And Small Breakthroughs
Mealtimes were especially difficult. Ziggy was too anxious to eat on her own, so Katz would sit beside her, quietly reassuring her until she felt comfortable enough to take food.
Meanwhile, Leone made his own efforts to bond with her. He would lie on the floor next to her crate, speaking softly and offering gentle cuddles when she allowed it.
Over time, Ziggy began to realize that these humans were different. They weren’t going to hurt her. They only wanted to show her love.
Her confidence grew as she started spending time outside with the family’s other dogs. For the first time, Ziggy experienced the joy of playing alongside canine companions.
The other dogs became her teachers, showing her what it meant to just be a dog: running, playing, and enjoying life without fear.
Katz noticed that Ziggy seemed completely new to life inside a home. She stared at mirrors in confusion, as though she had never seen her reflection before. Every little discovery became part of her journey to healing.
Feeling Loved
One of the most touching moments came when Ziggy finally found the courage to seek affection.
Katz captured the milestone on video: Ziggy cautiously walked up to Leone and let him pet her for the very first time.
She later shared the clip on TikTok, where it quickly went viral. Viewers were overwhelmed with emotion, celebrating Ziggy’s bravery.
“Watch how my foster dog gains confidence to approach my boyfriend when she sees how the other dogs feel safe with him,” Katz wrote in the caption.
The video showed Leone kneeling on the floor, happily showering the couple’s three dogs with affection.
Ziggy, who had been watching from across the room, began inching forward. It was as if she was asking, “Is it okay if I join too?”
Leone extended his hand gently, petting her while continuing to love on the other dogs.
For Ziggy, it was a breakthrough. Her face lit up with happiness, and for the first time, she experienced what it felt like to be truly included.
The moment touched hearts worldwide. Thousands of TikTok users left comments praising her progress and sending encouragement for her continued journey.
Now, Ziggy is flourishing in her foster home. She adores following Katz around the house and often seeks affection on her own.
While Katz and Leone love her dearly, they already have three dogs and plan to continue fostering others in need. This means they won’t be able to keep Ziggy permanently.
Still, they are confident she will soon find the perfect forever family who will cherish her for the rest of her life.
After everything she endured, Ziggy is finally learning what love, safety, and comfort truly mean.