“So many people commented on that photo …”
iral “Optical Illusion” Dog Photo Has a Beautiful Backstory
A puzzling photo has been circulating online in recent weeks — and it’s left many viewers scratching their heads.
In the image, a smiling dog appears to have an unusual growth sprouting from his stomach. But the truth is far more heartwarming than strange.
“So many people commented on that photo worrying,” said dog owner Olena Kagui. “Then they realize there are two dogs.”
It turns out, the photo isn’t alarming at all — it’s joyful. The face seen beaming up in the image belongs to a dog named Smiley, and the “growth” is actually the head of his canine sibling, Keo, resting comfortably on him like a pillow.
Once people understand what they’re looking at, the image goes from odd to adorable. And even more touching is the story behind Smiley’s grin.
From Shelter Sadness to Hawaiian Happiness
Smiley’s life wasn’t always this sunny. In 2018, he was a lonely, depressed pup in a New York City animal shelter — days away from being euthanized.
That’s when Kagui and her husband found him. Even though Smiley seemed withdrawn and broken, they took a leap of faith and brought him home as a foster.
But the bond was instant. It didn’t take long before they knew he was staying forever.
Since then, Smiley’s world has blossomed. The family moved to Hawaii, and over the years, they adopted two more rescue dogs — including Keo — and four cats. With each new sibling, Smiley’s confidence and joy only grew.
“[Keo] taught Smiley how to play without being scared,” Kagui said.
A Picture Worth a Thousand Wags
In the viral photo, Smiley grins contentedly as Keo rests his head on him. The composition creates a hilarious optical illusion — but also captures a moment of quiet bliss for a once-forgotten dog who now knows love.
At 13, Smiley has slowed down a bit, but he still savors every day with his family. And while his parents gave him a second chance at life, they say the real gift has been what he’s given back.
“I know it’s a cliché, but the ‘he saved us instead of us saving him’ thing really is true,” Kagui said. “Both my husband and I have struggled with mental health; I have depression, and my husband has anxiety. But Smiley has brought us so much joy. His siblings too, but Smiley is truly special.”
What began as a funny photo turned out to be a powerful reminder of what rescue — and love — can do. And for Smiley, every soft pillow, every sunny day, and every sibling snuggle is proof that second chances are worth it.