Tiny Foster Puppy With One Eye Grows Up, Tears Over Why It Means So Much

A tiny, injured puppy who once weighed under 4 pounds is now thriving—and her remarkable transformation is moving thousands online.  

In a viral TikTok video, shared in February by @billiewensveen, Junie B., a one-eyed pit bull mix, can be seen growing from a fragile foster in need of emergency surgery into a confident, happy young dog—and, for her foster mom, the journey has meant everything. 

“Why do you get so excited about how much I’ve grown? Because there once was a time…” The caption says: “Once a tiny baby who needed everything. Now a confident, beautiful soul. Watching Junie B grow has been the greatest honor. Foster love changes lives.” 

Junie B. came to live with Billie Wensveen, 55, in West Richland, Washington, when she was just 4 weeks old. At the time, the pit bull mix weighed only 3.8 pounds and had suffered a traumatic injury to her right eye.  

Her owners reached out to Mikey’s Chance Canine Rescue because they were unable to afford the lifesaving medical care she needed, and Wensveen, who has fostered with the rescue for the past 10 years, stepped in. 

“When I saw her and learned about the severity of her injury, I simply couldn’t say no,” Wensveen said. “She was this tiny, beautiful, vulnerable baby who needed immediate medical attention.” 

On the night she entered the rescue, Junie B. was rushed to an emergency veterinarian. It was determined that her eye could not be saved and that she would need an enucleation—the surgery was scheduled for the following Monday.  

Over the weekend, Wensveen administered antibiotics and pain medication, keeping the tiny puppy comfortable, safe and closely monitored during those critical first days. 

After undergoing surgery, Junie B. returned home to begin her healing journey. Wensveen provided round-the-clock care, including structure, proper nutrition, medication management and constant supervision.  

“Watching such a tiny puppy navigate the world with one eye and adapt so quickly was truly remarkable,” she said. 

Now, 74 days after arriving at her foster home, Junie B. weighs 23 pounds and is described as thriving, happy, spoiled and well-adjusted. According to Wensveen, she has “absolutely no idea she is any different from the rest of the pack” and keeps up just fine. 

The journey has not been easy, but it has been deeply rewarding. Junie B. is not currently available for adoption, as she still needs to be spayed and complete her full vaccine series to ensure she is fully protected and healthy before placement. 

“I would also love to recognize Mikey’s Chance Canine Rescue for the extraordinary work they do in our community,” Wensveen said. 

“Rescue truly takes a village. If someone isn’t able to foster, there are still so many meaningful ways to help volunteering at events, assisting with fundraising, donating, sharing posts, or helping spread awareness about adoptable dogs and the needs of rescue organizations.  

“I am so grateful to be part of a community that advocates for these incredible dogs,” Wensveen added.

For rescue dogs settling into their new home can be overwhelming, but there are ways you can make it easier on them. The charity Dogs Trust suggests preparing a safe space with essential items, such as dog beds, food bowls and toys, and dog-proofing the house, before their arrival.  

In the first days, let the pup adjust at its own pace without forcing interaction, use food enrichment, keep short walks, introduce other pets slowly, and establish a consistent routine with patience and understanding.  

Keeping a diary and seeking behavioral support can help. For the first night, provide a comfortable bed and calm environment, and use reward-based training to build trust.