When a volunteer from R.A.D. Rescue was driving through Bakersfield, California, she noticed a pit bull rummaging through trash on the side of the road. At first, his unusually round, chubby face caught her attention — but within seconds, she realized it wasn’t cute at all. Something was seriously wrong.

“His head was incredibly swollen from having a tight chain around his neck,” the volunteer later shared on TikTok.

A Gentle Dog in Desperate Need

The pit bull, later named Chunk the Hunk, was clearly in pain. Yet when the rescuer offered him some chicken, he approached with trust and allowed her to bring him safely into her car.

Chunk rode calmly in the back seat, his swollen head resting gently as if he knew this was the beginning of a better chapter. Despite what he had endured, he smiled at his rescuer, grateful for kindness at last.

From Suffering to Healing

At the vet, doctors confirmed that the swelling was caused by the chain embedded in his neck. Thankfully, it was treatable. With medical care and time, the swelling subsided, and Chunk’s face slowly returned to normal.

But his journey wasn’t only about healing physically. Rescuers realized that Chunk had likely spent most of his life chained up, never knowing the freedom to play, explore, or simply be a dog.

So they began teaching him — patiently showing him how to walk on a leash, play with toys, and build confidence. Bit by bit, his sweet personality blossomed.

Chunk the Hunk Today

Today, Chunk has transformed into a gentle, well-behaved dog who adores other pups and enjoys every moment of his new life. He’s active, loving, and full of the goofy charm that makes pit bulls so endearing.

There’s just one thing missing: a forever home.

Despite all the attention his rescue story has received, Chunk is still waiting for the perfect adopter — someone who will love him unconditionally and ensure he never knows neglect again.

Until then, he remains a shelter favorite, a living reminder of resilience, hope, and the difference one act of compassion can make.

✨ Chunk the Hunk may have been chained down in his past, but his future is wide open — all he needs now is a family to call his own.