Man Posts Photo Of His New Dog Online, Leading To Police Calls From Concerned Viewers

Note: This story is being republished, originally reported in June 2020.

Adopting pets can bring immense joy to everyone involved—new pet owners, onlookers charmed by the cute animals, and, of course, the pets themselves. In Waterford, Michigan, a touching photo of Dan Tillery with his newly adopted dog, Diggy, went viral, delighting thousands with their joyful expressions. However, amid the overwhelming positivity, a few nosy neighbors stirred up trouble, leading to an unexpected run-in with law enforcement.

These individuals claimed that Diggy resembled a pit bull terrier, which contradicted local regulations regarding dangerous dogs. Despite Diggy’s journey from the streets of Detroit to 100 days at the Detroit Dog Rescue—where he was lovingly nicknamed Sir Wiggleton—Dan and his girlfriend faced another obstacle.

After years of renting in pet-restricted homes, the couple had just moved into a new house, thrilled to finally have a pet. Their excitement quickly turned to dismay when police arrived at their door due to concerns over Diggy.

However, Diggy’s lovable nature shone through as he greeted the officers with tail wags and affectionate licks. Dan presented the adoption papers indicating Diggy’s breed as an American bulldog, but the officers remained skeptical. They issued a ticket and gave Dan just three days to find a new home for Diggy, threatening a hefty fine or even jail time.

But the community rallied around Dan, leading to over 10,000 signatures on an online petition asking for Diggy to stay. Dan also gathered supporting documents from his vet, the City of Detroit Animal Control, and the shelter, all confirming Diggy’s breed. After months of legal challenges, the case finally went to court, where the judge dismissed all charges against Dan and Diggy. Elated, Dan shared the news on Facebook, saying, “We get to keep our boy. He’s a good boy.”

This heartwarming story highlights the power of community and compassion in pet adoption. Dan’s determination, along with the backing of his neighbors, ensured that Diggy found his forever home. It serves as a poignant reminder that the bond between pets and their owners should be celebrated, not hindered by unnecessary regulations. Ultimately, justice prevailed, and Diggy’s joyful spirit continues to brighten the lives of everyone around him.

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