One sunny day in Oceanside, California, along the popular coastal path known as The Strand, Caitlin McGowan sat down on some granite steps to enjoy the ocean view — but what caught her attention wasn’t the waves.
Just a short distance away sat an older man, quietly enjoying the sun. He seemed to be alone, soaking in the peaceful moment. But there was something curious about him: he was holding a bag of dog treats.
It wasn’t long before McGowan discovered the heart-melting reason why.
The man wasn’t waiting for anyone in particular — he was there to greet every dog that passed by, handing out treats and making new four-legged friends.
“Protect this man at all costs,” McGowan wrote in a TikTok post that quickly went viral.
Locals in Oceanside quickly recognized the mystery man. He’s become something of a beloved regular along that stretch of beach, a quiet dog lover who finds joy in giving love and snacks to the pups passing by.
Shaun Simpson and his dog Shiloh have met him more than once. “He immediately picked my dog out of the crowd,” Simpson told The Dodo. “I’ve never caught his name. I’ve just always assumed he’s a big-time dog lover who enjoys the sunshine and the company of happy dogs.”
While most people don’t know much about him, one TikTok commenter shared a touching piece of his story.
“That’s my grandpa!” she wrote. “He always wanted a dog, but his wife is super allergic — so this is his outlet. I love him so much.”
Clearly, she’s not the only one. Each tail wag and joyful bark from the many dogs lucky enough to cross his path is a reminder that kindness doesn’t need to be loud or grand to make an impact. Sometimes, it looks like a man with a bag of treats and a heart full of love.
