Some dogs look a little different, but that doesn’t make them any less worthy of love. That was the case for one poor shelter dog, who lost his ears due to an injury, and his carers feared it would keep him from getting adopted.
But one thoughtful vet tech found an adorable way to give the dog new ears — which will hopefully help him on his search for a new home.
Back in 2023, a 2-year-old dog named Willy Wonka arrived at the Sacramento SPCA, after he became stuck in a fence and attacked by dogs from a neighboring home. It all ended pretty badly, as you can see in the photos.
Due to the injuries, emergency vets had to perform surgery on his ear flaps.
Vet tech John Holmquist helped care for the dog at the shelter and managed to get Willy back on his feet again — but there was one thing he’d be missing for good: his ears. John saw that Willy was a sweet boy, but worried that his scars and lack of ears might put off potential adopters and keep him from finding a home.
So, John went home and crafted up a gift that would make Willy Wonka as adorable as any dog in the shelter.
He crocheted a hat with its very own floppy ears: “When you lose both of your ears after a dog attack, but your vet tech knits you new ones,” the SPCA captioned their post.
Holmquist told KCRA that Willy didn’t exactly love his new hat, but he was undeniably adorable in it, and photos soon went viral.
After some months, Willy became available for adoption. The SPCA hoped that Willy’s viral fame would help him find a home.
“Despite Willy’s ruff start, his personality shines through, and he’s happy to see everyone he meets! (He even seems to still enjoy the company of dogs, which we are thrilled about!),” the organization shared on the pup’s adoption profile.
After a while, it was reported that Willy had been adopted, but sadly, his stay didn’t last long — the family’s other dog hadn’t appreciated his arrival.
Despite the setback, the Sacramento SPCA didn’t give up hope. They were confident that the perfect family was still out there for this sweet, resilient pup. Willy was lovingly described as a “couch potato” with experience living around children, and a great match for other dogs who could appreciate his outgoing personality — and his slightly “different” look.
And finally, in June 2023, Willy Wonka found his forever family — one that was ready to give him all the love and care he deserved.
And just look at him now — he couldn’t be happier!
This heartwarming story truly lifted my spirits. If it touched yours too, feel free to share it with someone who needs a smile today.