Woman loses “soulmate” dog, internet in bits at what husband does next

To many people, dogs are much more than just pets; they are treated like family and considered both a man’s and a woman’s best friend. So when they pass away, it is only natural for people to grieve.

Kaja Sonik Zon, 32, and Macho, an American pit bull terrier, were joined at the hip for eight years, but he unexpectedly passed away about a month ago, leaving a hole in Zon’s heart.

Last week, her husband, Mateusz, 34, melted hearts on Instagram by surprising her with a nine-month-old puppy. The footage, shared to @kaja_macho, quickly went viral, amassing 2.3 million views.

Zon told Newsweek: “I was devastated by Macho’s passing, and in an incredible gesture of love, my husband surprised me by flying all the way to North Carolina on the pretext of a business trip to bring home a new puppy.”

“At first, I couldn’t believe it; I didn’t feel ready to welcome a new dog into my life. However, I quickly realized that Macho had a paw in this decision too. He would have wanted me to find happiness again.”

In the video, Zon can be seen working on her laptop before asking her husband why he is recording. Then, he places a pet carrier on the table, and she breaks down in tears.

The clip, captioned: “A month ago, I lost my soulmate, Macho, and today my husband had a huge surprise for me. Please meet Pupeye, our newest family member!” has over 131,000 likes.

Zon, who is originally from Poland and currently living in the Caribbean, told Newsweek about her bond with Macho and how they built a huge social media presence with over 5 million followers.

“Macho’s unexpected passing felt like a part of me died alongside him,” she said. “For eight years, we were inseparable. He was by my side through every significant moment in my life, and we traveled extensively together, moving from Poland to Florida and then to the Caribbean.

“Macho was no ordinary dog; he was family, and that’s how his passing felt. He possessed an amazing charisma and emotional intelligence.”

Zon added that her life hasn’t been the same since, but caring for Pupeye has helped ease the pain.

She told Newsweek: “I know there is enough room in my heart for both of them. Pupeye is an absolute cutie!

“He is a huge cuddler and has settled into his new home perfectly from day one.”

A 2022 study in OMEGA – Journal of Death and Dying found that society often minimizes pet loss, making it even more difficult for grieving owners to find support.

This type of overlooked grief, known as disenfranchised grief, is especially common in wealthier societies, where losing a dog or cat is generally accepted, but mourning smaller or less traditional pets is often seen as unusual. Research suggests that pet owners need greater recognition and support, as keeping a connection to their pet’s memory can either help with healing or, in some cases, intensify their grief.

Despite these findings, Zon has received a sea of support online from over 2,500 users.

One comment said: “Absolutely the best thing for your heart. Never replaced just mending the wound,” and another wrote: “I am so happy for you! Your husband is a keeper 🙂 I’m sure Macho is happily watching from above and telling Pupeye, “You are so lucky! You are going to have THE BEST life!”

A third reassured: “They are different. They each deserve their love. It doesn’t mean you have forgotten about Macho, because the pup will not and can’t replace your best friend from the past, he can be your best friend in the now and the future. Macho would like for you to be happy again. Welcome Pupeye.”

Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.