Drew and Ruthie Johnson Smith weren’t sure what to make of the growing hole in the ivy that blanketed their backyard fence. Normally, the thick green vines created a lush barrier between their yard and the neighbor’s — but lately, a small section had been mysteriously cleared away.
Each day, the gap widened. Perplexed, they watched and wondered what could be behind it.
Then one morning, while Ruthie was out watering the garden, the mystery unraveled. She caught their young pup, Caamp, in the act — pulling away leaves with surprising determination. But he wasn’t being destructive just for fun.
He was making room to see someone special.
Through the clearing stood Owen, the elderly dog who had recently moved in next door. Unbeknownst to their humans, the two pups had been having daily “visits” through the fence — tails wagging furiously as they exchanged silent hellos. And each day, Caamp had been carefully removing the ivy so they could see one another more clearly.
Moved by their dog's persistence and sweetness, Drew and Ruthie recorded one of the fence-side greetings and shared it on Instagram. The video quickly went viral, and soon, people all over the world were rooting for Caamp and Owen’s friendship.
“Please let them meet!” one commenter begged.
“Knock that fence down and give the people (and pups) what they want!” another joked.
Inspired by the outpouring of love, Drew and Ruthie reached out to Owen’s family, who had no idea their dog had become an internet star. The two dogs had met briefly once before on leashes, but it was time for a real playdate.
When the big day finally came, it didn’t disappoint. Caamp and Owen hit it off instantly, with happy tail wags and playful energy despite their age difference — Caamp being less than a year old and Owen a dignified senior.
“Owen had his helicopter tail going,” Drew said. “You could tell he recognized Caamp from their fence meetings. He immediately perked up.”
Their story has done more than just melt hearts online — it’s sparked a real-life connection, too. The dogs’ bond helped bring the two families closer, turning neighbors into friends.
“It’s been such a wholesome experience,” Drew shared. “We’re hoping Owen can pass on some of his wisdom to our goofy little pup.”
Now, Owen and Caamp enjoy regular playdates, and their friendship continues to blossom — all thanks to a determined dog and a tiny hole in the ivy.
To follow their sweet adventures, check out @caampstagram on Instagram.
