Every now and then, a rescue dog captures the hearts of thousands in the most unexpected way. For Tink, a Chihuahua about the size of a hamster, that moment came as soon as her story was shared online. Despite her age, health struggles, and complete lack of teeth, Tink has become a star — proving that even the smallest, feistiest seniors deserve a spotlight.
When Tink first arrived at Skiatook Paws and Claws Animal Rescue (SPACAR) last month, staff and volunteers couldn’t believe just how tiny she was.
“She is the size of a hamster,” said SPACAR board member Paige Bodden. “She’s so small.”
Her petite frame wasn’t the only thing that stood out. Tink’s condition made it clear she was a senior dog, estimated to be around nine years old. A vet visit revealed more about her health — she has no teeth at all and lives with a heart murmur that requires careful monitoring.
A Spunky Spirit in a Tiny Body
You might expect such a fragile-looking pup to be a quiet lapdog, happy to curl up and nap all day. But Tink quickly showed the rescue team that she has a very different personality.
Instead of being sweet and submissive, Tink is lively, independent, and completely set in her ways. She knows exactly what she likes and isn’t afraid to express what she doesn’t.
“Tink has got some spicy spunkiness and we love to see it,” SPACAR wrote on Instagram.
Currently, Tink is staying with a foster mom. Even in her new temporary home, she has made it clear that she’s not the type to be smothered with cuddles. Instead, she prefers space, freedom, and the chance to rule her little world on her own terms.
“She’s definitely an older, set-in-her-ways granny Chihuahua, who just wants to exist at someone’s house and do whatever she wants,” Bodden explained.
An Honest Post That Went Viral
Because senior dogs often struggle to find homes, Bodden decided to post about Tink on SPACAR’s Instagram in hopes of sparking some interest. Instead of trying to sugarcoat her quirks, she leaned into them with honesty and humor.
The caption read: “She is 9 years old. She has no teeth. She has a heart murmur. And she is an absolute menace.”
To Bodden’s surprise, that simple post exploded in popularity. Within days, it had received over 14,000 likes and hundreds of comments from people declaring their love for Tink.
“Not to be dramatic, but I would do anything for Tink,” one commenter wrote.
The reaction showed that people weren’t just charmed by perfect puppies — they were falling in love with a tiny, toothless, grumpy old lady dog.
Hundreds of Families Want Her
What started as a playful Instagram post quickly turned into something life-changing for Tink. Instead of struggling to find a family willing to take in a senior dog with health issues, she suddenly had more potential homes than most rescues could ever imagine.
“I have, like, 207 applications on her alone,” Bodden said. “That’s an unimaginable amount for just one dog.”
Of course, SPACAR will carefully review the applications to make sure Tink finds a home that can meet her special needs. Once she receives proper treatment for her heart murmur, she’ll be ready to move in with her forever family — one that understands her sass, respects her space, and can give her the medical care she deserves.
A Win for Senior Dogs Everywhere
For the team at SPACAR, Tink’s viral fame is more than just a happy accident. It’s proof that senior dogs, even those with health challenges, can capture just as much attention as the youngest and fluffiest pups.
“She’s a crotchety old Chihuahua,” Bodden laughed. “I had no idea that everybody would just fall head over heels for her.”
While Tink may be tiny in size, her impact is huge. She’s not only on her way to finding a loving forever home but also helping shine a light on senior pets everywhere. Her story reminds us that every dog, no matter how small, toothless, or sassy, deserves a chance to be loved.
And as for Tink? She’ll continue to live life exactly how she wants — with a little spunk, a lot of independence, and an entire fan base cheering her on.
