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Golden Retriever's Separation Anxiety Goes Viral on TikTok

12/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Roo, a golden retriever owned by Marissa and Joe Lombardi, refuses to walk unless both owners are present.
The TikTok video has nearly 8 million views and over 1.2 million likes.
Marissa Lombardi describes Roo as needy and attributes the behavior to separation anxiety from their pandemic bond.
The American Kennel Club advises pet owners to help dogs build independence to reduce anxiety.

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Story summary

Roo, a golden retriever owned by Marissa and Joe Lombardi, refuses to walk unless both owners are present.
The TikTok video has nearly 8 million views and over 1.2 million likes.
Marissa Lombardi describes Roo as needy and attributes the behavior to separation anxiety from their pandemic bond.
The American Kennel Club advises pet owners to help dogs build independence to reduce anxiety.