Sweet Thing Couple Do for Animals on Coldest Day—'Need a Little Extra Help'

A video about a couple in Canada who provided shelter for a raccoon found "shaking in the middle of the road" during the country's coldest day of the year has gone viral on TikTok. The video, posted by @evieleexx3 on January 22, has amassed 1.9 million views, capturing the moment the couple rescued the distressed animal from extreme cold conditions. A note overlaid on the video sets the scene, saying: "When it's the coldest day of the year in Canada and even the wildlife need a little extra help." In the caption, the TikTok user explained how they spotted the shivering raccoon struggling in the freezing weather. "We are in extreme cold weather warnings for temps [temperatures] well below freezing," the caption read. "Saw this little guy shaking in the middle of the road. My husband quickly shoveled a path to our garage, and the raccoon was more than grateful for the help." The footage shows the raccoon following the cleared path into the warmth of the garage, escaping the dangerous outdoor temperatures.

How Do Raccoons Seek Shelter in the Winter?

According to a January article by Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control, raccoons do not hibernate like bears but enter a state called torpor, where their metabolism slows down to conserve energy. "Raccoons are incredibly resourceful creatures, but winter presents unique challenges for them," the article explains. "They may stay in their dens for days or even weeks if the weather is particularly harsh." The article notes that while in torpor, raccoons rely on fat reserves built up in warmer months. However, they must occasionally emerge to search for food, often leading them to human habitats for shelter. "Raccoons are highly adaptable and resourceful, which makes them excellent at finding suitable winter homes," the article states. "They prefer locations that provide warmth and safety from predators." While hollow trees, rock crevices and burrows are their natural winter shelters, urban raccoons often turn to attics and garages due to encroaching human development. "Raccoons are known for their ability to squeeze through surprisingly small openings, so even a tiny gap in your roof or eaves can become an entry point," the article notes.

'Feels So Safe'

Once inside the garage, the raccoon wasted no time drinking fresh water and dunking its paws in it, seemingly warming them up. It then enjoyed some food while standing on a blanket, appearing more relaxed in its temporary home. "He's been a lovely guest and is very grateful for the fresh water, fresh snackies, and a warm place to sleep for now—be kind to all wildlife and help when you can," the caption reads. As the video progresses, the raccoon is seen cautiously stepping toward the garage door, testing the outdoor conditions. However, as soon as the freezing air hits, the animal turns back toward the garage. The viral video left many TikTok users emotional and grateful for the couple's kindness. "Little baby just wanted to be snuggly and wash his hands," wrote WOOOOZY. User @mamabearto1127 admired the raccoon's trust, saying: "He feels so safe with you guys. The way he turned right back around when he was about to come back out the door like nope, I think I'll stay in here where it's warm! Thank you for being angels to him!" Others were moved to tears. "I am now crying over a raccoon," admitted 13579ajfdguai, while sheelbyb wrote "Brb [be right back] crying over a raccoon washing his hands and then turning away from the snow like 'oou no that's cold.'" Maryanna summed up the appreciation for the couple's actions, saying: "Thank you for helping him & providing him with drinks, snacks, warmth & love!" Newsweek has contacted the original poster for comment via TikTok. This video has not been independently verified.

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