Willy Wonka may look a little different from other dogs, but his heart is just as full of love — and thanks to one caring vet tech, he now has something extra special to help him stand out.
In 2023, the 2-year-old pup arrived at the Sacramento SPCA in rough shape. He’d been caught in a fence and attacked by dogs from a neighboring yard, leaving him with severe injuries.
Emergency vets managed to save him, but his ear flaps couldn’t be — they had to be surgically removed.
While his body began to heal, the concern lingered: would anyone be willing to adopt a dog with no ears?
John Holmquist, a veterinary technician at the SPCA who helped nurse Willy back to health, wasn’t going to let that happen.
He knew Willy was sweet, resilient, and full of charm — and he wanted the world to see that, too. So, he grabbed his crochet hook and got to work.
The result? A custom-made hat complete with big, floppy ears.
“When you lose both of your ears after a dog attack, but your vet tech knits you new ones,” the SPCA wrote on social media, sharing photos of Willy in his new look.
Though Willy wasn’t thrilled about wearing his hat, he became a social media sensation overnight. The photos quickly went viral, touching hearts everywhere.
A few months later, Willy was cleared for adoption. Despite his scars and unique appearance, his vibrant personality shone through — he was a gentle, happy-go-lucky pup who still loved other dogs and people alike.
At one point, it seemed he had found his forever home. Sadly, the fit wasn’t quite right; the family’s other dog didn’t adjust well to Willy’s presence, and he was returned.
But the SPCA wasn’t discouraged. They knew the right match was out there — someone who would see beyond his appearance and embrace his big, lovable personality.
And they were right.
In June 2023, Willy finally found his perfect family — one that loved him exactly as he was. With a soft bed, a warm home, and all the love he could ask for, Willy’s days of struggle were behind him.
Now, he's not just surviving — he's thriving. And thanks to the thoughtfulness of one vet tech and a pair of crocheted ears, his story reminds us all that every dog deserves a second chance — no matter how they look.
This heartwarming story truly lifted my spirits. If it touched yours too, feel free to share it with someone who needs a smile today.
