When Clay first saw Tappie, she was rummaging through garbage near one of his job sites in North Georgia. Workers would toss scraps of food her way, but she remained skittish, avoiding any interaction with people. Determined to help, Clay began bringing her treats several times a week, hoping to build trust and get her off the streets. Although Tappie appreciated his kindness, she kept her distance, still wary of him.
Clay continued to leave food for her, sitting on the ground, speaking to her in a gentle voice, and encouraging her to approach. Slowly but surely, Tappie began to realize she could trust him. She moved closer but was still hesitant to fully engage. Then, one day, she finally approached Clay, took a treat from his hand, and lay down beside him. In that moment, she showed him her trust, and Clay felt overjoyed. He lay next to her, showering her with affection, and knew then that he was taking her home. CONTINUE TO STORY BELOW
Gently, he lifted her into his truck, and as soon as she settled in with Clay and his fiancée, Jenny, Tappie felt safe. Her heart brimmed with gratitude for her new caregivers. Things began to change quickly. “She opened up really fast. Within a couple of days, she started cuddling with us on the bed,” Jenny shared with GeoBeats Animals. The couple took Tappie to the vet for a checkup. She had no microchip, but since the vet confirmed she was spayed, they suspected she once had owners. Jenny searched shelter websites and social media and found a photo of Tappie taken just a month before Clay met her.
They felt heartbroken to learn that Tappie had been adopted briefly but then neglected. “She is one of the sweetest, smartest souls I’ve ever met, and it breaks my heart knowing she was once neglected,” Jenny posted on Instagram. CONTINUE TO STORY BELOW
Clay and Jenny formed a strong bond with Tappie and decided to keep her forever. The couple plans to marry in June 2025 and wants Tappie to be the heart of their family. Once a scared and neglected pup, Tappie is now a happy and healthy dog living her best life in North Georgia. Her parents adore her, and she revels in every moment spent cuddling with them.
Tappie even has her own Instagram and TikTok accounts, where she and her beloved mom share updates about her daily adventures. A heartfelt thank you to Clay for dedicating so much time to building trust with Tappie and restoring her faith in humanity. She is truly lucky to have such wonderful parents. CONTINUE TO STORY BELOW
