Parade Pets

Messes happen. Unfortunately, it's one of the less exciting realities of pet ownership. Muddy paw stains pop up from treks through wet dirt or, even worse, wet grass. And if you have a particularly slobbery pup, spots tend to appear after an afternoon spent chewing on a treat.

Thankfully, there are plenty of stain removal remedies and machines on the market. But, they aren't all created equal. Shark is well-known for tackling tough pet problems with products that handle issues like excess pet hair and stain removal. Their latest product aims to address those pesky stains while remaining portable and easy to use, and it's available at everyone's favorite warehouse store, Costco.

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While I'd love to say I stay on top of stains as they happen, it doesn't always work out that way. No one, including me, likes lugging out a large carpet cleaner every single time there's a mess. Getting the machine ready to roll and then lugging it through the house from stain to stain is truly a tedious process. However, a smaller, more portable system makes it easier to stay on top of the stains that come with daily life, which is where Shark's StainForce System comes in, and it's pretty affordable at $149.99.

I can't decide if my favorite feature is that it's cordless or that everything fits in an easy-to-carry caddy around the house. One side holds the sleek stain remover, while the other holds the cleaning spray. Right in the middle of the two is the all-important extra attachment.

The system looks fairly easy to use. Spray the area of concern with the pre-mixed, low-moisture cleaning liquid, and use the scrubbing head to work the solution into the affected area. Suck everything up with the extraction head and call it a day. Or in my case, likely move on to the next spot.

The unit is 20.5 inches tall and weighs a little over 2 pounds, which firmly places it in the lightweight category. The bin holds .14 liters of liquid. If you have a larger cleaning area, you may have to empty the bin a few times before you are through.

Related: Golden Retriever Siblings Look Like 'Before and After' Thanks to Muddy Mischief

While it's nice to see what a product can do, it's better to hear from people who have used it. Thankfully, Costco shoppers never hesitate to share their thoughts on Costco.com. One shopper writes, "Got this as an 'emergency tool to clean some filthy cloth seats and it worked really well. Its small size can be convenient to carry around in the car like those portable vacuums. A great addition to your arsenal of cleaning supplies." It would be great for cleaning up the car after a trip to the vet, or may come in handy if your pet ever gets car sick.

"This is an amazing device for our household. My husband spilt wine on the carpet, and I was so happy to have this on hand. It completely removed the stain within minutes and was so easy to use," another Costco shopper writes. She continues, "This is a must if you have carpet in your house. Love that it’s portable, cordless, and comes with a storage caddy. Bonus points that I don’t need to be searching for all of the chemicals and tools because they are all stored neatly in the caddy." My thoughts exactly. I love it when everything you need to get a job done is in one place.

One of the perks of being a Costco member is that the warehouse version usually comes with extra accessories. In this case, it comes with a magnetic charger, an extra bristle strip and replacement filters. It is currently available online at Costco.com and in-store.

Related: Aldi's $30 Wireless Gadget Makes Cleaning Pet Messes a Total Breeze

90s nostalgia has taken center stage, hitting stores with popular pieces of clothing, accessories and toys. But the adorable 90s themes aren't just for humans anymore. This time around, it's extending to our pets, giving us the chance to give them some of the toys we were obsessed with to cherish themselves.

Aldi has one of the quintessential childhood favorites: the Pound Puppy. We all wanted one. It graced the top of the list for every child's birthday and Christmas, giving us our very own pups to care for. Now, we can carry on the tradition, giving our own pups their own rainbow colored stuffed pups to play with.

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Aldi

Now that we have our own puppies to care for, it makes complete sense that we, 90s kids, or those who just appreciate the nostalgia, give our pups a Pound Puppy of their own to care for. The white pup fur comes in tufts of rainbow-colored fur, creating a fun and creative toy.

While the dog version may be a little more colorful than the OG pup, it still has the loveable expression and floppy features. Of course, it also has the signature Pound Puppy logo above the tail. The puppy both squeaks and crinkles to keep your dog's attention.

It's perfect for pups who love to snuggle with their stuffed animals or carry them around like their very own emotional support toy. If your pup is a super chewer like mine, you may want to skip this one. One squeak and it's sure to have stuffing scattered around the house in 10 seconds flat.

Related: This $5 Find at Aldi Is Perfect for Keeping Your Curious Pet Busy

The plush material is best for mid-day snuggle sessions, nibbling, and fun games of fetch. Just be sure to keep an eye on your pup while they are playing. Stuffed toys make great play companions but can also pose a choking hazard. Plus, you can always wipe it down with a cloth if it gets a little too dirty.

Aldi is well-known for their quirky, but adorable finds. While they never disappoint, items that find themselves lucky enough to be included in this collection tend to go quickly. If it's your heart's desire to get a Pound Puppy for your four-legged best friend, then you'd better get over to your local Aldi store before they sell out.

Related: Aldi’s $6 Pet Essential Is a Tasty Way to Boost Daily Dental Care

With all the excitement building around Easter Sunday, there’s one place delivering just as much fun for your pets as it does for the whole family: PetSmart. And with the holiday right around the corner, now’s the time to lock in your plans, whether you're hosting friends and family, heading to the park for a picnic or taking a road trip to see loved ones.

To help keep your pets entertained come Easter weekend, PetSmart is gearing up for a truly memorable event. On Saturday, April 4, pet parents can stop in with their furry companions to take part in a nationwide Easter egg hunt and score a chance to win instant savings, treats and more. If ever there was a time to get your little sidekick in on the action, that time is now.

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Making spring a little extra egg-citing, this free in-store Easter Egg Hunt is a fun way to elevate your weekend plans while giving your pet some much-needed interaction with others just like them. Featuring an array of hidden eggs with coupons tucked inside, pet parents can expect plenty of festive photo opportunities, complimentary treat samples, coloring pages and a special “Meet the Pets” session.

According to the popular pet chain, 97 percent of pet parents consider their pets part of the family, making Easter the perfect time to include them in those cherished traditions. On April 4, shoppers can stop by between 10 am and 2 pm to enjoy the interactive egg hunt, with the first 50 pet parents scoring eggs that include a same-day coupon worth up to $20 off an in-store purchase.

Adding to the excitement, the special “Meet the Pets” session gives pet parents a chance to meet small pets available for adoption and learn about their daily care from PetSmart associates.

"We believe celebrating and capturing special moments with your pet shouldn't require a big budget," senior vice president of marketing at PetSmart Bradley Breuer said. "Our Easter Egg Hunt and activities give pet parents a fun and free interactive community experience to include their pets in traditions while discovering everything they need to make the holiday memorable."

Related: Target’s $12 Spring Layer Has Dogs Ready for Easter Sunday

While the Easter Egg Hunt is the main draw of Saturday’s festivities, PetSmart is also helping pet parents get their fur babies ready with a brand-new spring collection. So whether you’re filling Easter baskets for loved ones or adding a little extra pep to your pet’s step this season, you can take your pick from the following new arrivals:

• Peeps-inspired products including an adorable Bunny and Chick Plush Toys, a Rope Toy, matching Chick and Bunny Tees and Peeps Biscuit Dog Treats. 
• Flower and Bunny Headbands and cozy Bunny and Chick Hoodies.
• Duck Raincoat and Rain Boots.
• Chew toys like the Egg Carton Chew, Kabob Chew, Squeak into Spring Bandana and a show-stopping Bunny Costume.

Lastly, for anyone introducing a small pet into their family—or someone inspired by the "Meet the Pets" session—pet parents can also get 25 percent off small animal habitats when buying online and picking up in store now through April 30. And for more information on the Easter Egg Hunt event, and to browse the full Spring collection, you can hop on over to PetSmart.com.

Related: Pet Costs Are Skyrocketing in 2026—Here’s Where Experts Suggest Cutting Back

There are smart cats. There are chaotic cats. And then there are Orange Cats, who somehow manage to be both at the same time in ways that feel… slightly concerning.

Because once an Orange Cat figures something out, it’s over for the rest of us.

Replying to @McKenna ✨🦥🍃🫠 I put the crock pot out a few days later to see if he would do it again.. while I was home.. sure enough he did 😐. The crock pot now has a permanent home in the garage

The unbelievable video was posted on the @katiefraime49 TikTok account, and it shows an Orange Cat standing on a kitchen counter doing something I personally didn't know kitties were capable of.

He is opening a crockpot.

Not sniffing it. Not pawing at it. Fully engineering a solution.

Related: Orange Cat and Bearded Dragon Are the Most Chaotic Besties

Using his body weight and paws, he presses on the latch and nudges it forward until the lid loosens, all while his gray Tabby brother stands behind him like a hype man witnessing greatness.

I swear this looks exactly like my Maine Coon, Meatball, just… smaller and slightly more committed to crime.

The people who left comments absolutely lost it.

“I’m a full-grown woman and can barely open the crockpot.”

“I’m so glad my cats are stupid.”

“Orange Cat engineer! Of course, he’s a mechanical engineer!”

Others were less impressed and more concerned.

“This is why I don’t eat at potluck lunches!”

And one person pointed out something surprisingly helpful.

“You are not supposed to use the latches for cooking. They are for transporting. It can cause pressure, and the lid could shatter.”

So not only is this kitty chaotic, but he might also be the only one in the room following proper crockpot safety guidelines.

The cat mom later explained she now has to use her crockpot in the garage, which honestly feels like the only logical next step when you live with a tiny orange genius who has discovered appliances.

And then there was this comment, which sparked a whole different debate.

“I have two cats, and counters are off-limits. They have a clear understanding.”

Sure. OK. That sounds nice. Congratulations to you.

Image Via: Tanya Little/Shutterstock

If your cat has decided your kitchen counters are their personal playground, you are definitely not alone. Cats are naturally curious and love high places, especially when those places involve food or interesting smells.

Training them to stay off counters takes consistency and a little patience. One common method is using deterrents like double-sided tape or aluminum foil on surfaces, which many kitties dislike walking on.

Some pet parents also use a spray bottle as a quick correction, though it is important to avoid creating fear and instead redirect your fur baby to acceptable spaces like cat trees or designated perches.

Keeping counters clean and free of food can also reduce their temptation, although, as this Orange Cat has proven, sometimes their curiosity alone is enough.

And if your kitty has already figured out how to operate small kitchen appliances, it may be time to accept that you are no longer in charge.

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Adopting a rescue dog comes with SO many perks. They're usually house-trained, may know some basic commands, and they seem to understand they're being saved. If you're looking for a million reasons to search your local shelter, I have just the pup to sway you.

Ryder, a Shar-Pei mix with tiny, floppy ears, isn't only one of the cutest dogs on the web, but he's also a secret superhero—and he wants to show you his precious costume!

From shelter dog to super hero 🐾#rescuedog #rydertherescue

Did someone put out the bat signal? If so, Ryder heard the call, and he's ready to swoop in and save the day! This cutie-pie is adorable enough without a costume, so this quick but perfect clip is the cherry on top!

And let's not forget those perfectly pointed ears and his big, soulful eyes. He's like another version of Scooby-Doo vibes, but better. This good boy is doing an excellent job showcasing why rescue dogs are the absolute best.

Related: Rescue Dog With Face of a Human Man Has Everyone Swooning

This handsome gentleman is more than happy to wear a costume or do whatever Mom asks of him. Unfortunately, he spent two long years in a shelter before someone noticed what a doll he is and gave him the second chance he needed. Since then, the rescue pup has been livin' la vida loca in luxury!

Not long ago, Ryder became a viral sensation for his sweet donkey noises. He makes them when he's ready for bed (in the cutest jammies) and wants Mom to tuck him in. I've watched this video no less than 25 times, and it's better each time.

Replying to @mermanda.0930 By overwhelming demand...Ryder's night night routine💚 #dogtantrum #dogpack #dogtalk #dogsoftiktok #rydertherescue #rescuedog

I'll always be an advocate for rescuing a dog, especially as my senior pup sits across the room dreaming away. Sure, we saved his life at a time he seemed to have given up, but in the three years since that kismet meeting, he's saved mine, too.

With shelters so overcrowded, there's no better time than now to add a new companion to your home. These pups have so much going for them—and you might even find a full-breed doggie who would cost a gazillion dollars from a breeder—and they're deserving of a happy ending.

Aside from the fact that rescue dogs are typically ready to go (vaccinated, spayed/neutered, etc.), you'll never find a love like what they're capable of giving. And you might even get them to don a costume to show off their best features (like those floppy ears on Ryder)!

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There is a very specific kind of chaos that only exists when puppies are this small, this round, and this committed to absolutely nothing except rolling on top of each other.

No coordination. No strategy. Just vibes and tiny noises. Just check out these adorable, pudgy babies and get ready to squeal.

Playtime #puppylife #puppy #dog #fyp #pet

TikToker @geb_carla1 shared the clip of a group of tiny, chubby Bulldog puppies wrestling in what can only be described as a pile of squishy nonsense. They are rolling over each other, gently biting, making the smallest little growls and whimpers, and somehow none of it feels aggressive. Just… enthusiastic. Do I NEED one of these tiny puppies? Absolutely not. Do I WANT one of these tiny puppies? Absolutely.

Related: Tabby Cat Steals Newborn Puppies and Decides They’re Her Babies

They have those beautiful, spotted merle coats, soft wrinkles, and those fat little bodies that make you want to scoop all of them up at once, even though that would be physically impossible.

People in the comments were immediately overwhelmed. One person simply said, “Cuteness overload,” which is honestly the most accurate summary. Another joked, “I’ve got a bag of potatoes in my pantry, I’m gonna go check to see if they growl all cute, too,” which now feels like something we all need to test.

Others were fully ready to give up all productivity, like, “I would never get anything done, I'd cuddle them all day,” and “Oh, I want one so badly,” which… same. Very same.

There were also the people who just melted, writing, “Oh my goodness, cutest babies ever,” and “They are just precious, I bet they smell so good,” which is such a specific thought but also completely valid.

This is the exact kind of video that makes you forget everything you were supposed to be doing and just sit there smiling like an idiot for way too long.

Image via Shutterstock/Rita_Kochmarjova

Puppies should stay with their mother and littermates until they are at least 8 weeks old, and in many cases, even a little longer is better. Those early weeks are incredibly important for both physical development and social learning.

During this time, puppies learn how to interact with other dogs, including bite inhibition, play behavior, and communication cues. When they wrestle, nip, and tumble around like this, they are actually practicing important skills that help them become well-adjusted adult dogs.

Related: Tiny Dalmatian Puppy Gets the Hiccups and Looks Deeply Concerned About It

Their mother also plays a key role, not just in nursing but in teaching boundaries. She corrects them when needed, comforts them, and helps regulate their behavior in ways humans cannot fully replicate.

Separating puppies too early can lead to behavioral challenges later on, including anxiety, difficulty with socialization, and issues with biting or play. That is why responsible breeders and rescues wait until puppies are developmentally ready before sending them to new homes.

As hard as it is, letting them have this full time with their mom and siblings gives them the best possible start. And honestly, watching them grow and learn during this stage is part of what makes moments like this so special.

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The mother of a newborn baby and also a cat mom just experienced something many kitty parents go through when they bring home their new addition to the family: Cats love baby stuff.

Babies require a lot of stuff, which means a lot of new, often peculiar-looking items come into the house, and cats are quite curious about all these new additions.

It means new smells, new things to climb on, and most importantly, new places to curl up in for a nice, long nap.

We see that here in a recent video from @gloriacentanni.

Gloria is a new mom to a baby boy she had earlier this month.

She is also the mom to an adorable Tabby cat who has decided her new human brother's special pillow is really hers.

In the video, we see her all curled up on this large pillow with borders.

Her mother asks, "Can I put brother here? This is his," to which the cat just meows possessively as if to say, "No, I'd rather not share my new bed I found. Please take your business elsewhere."

But Mom needs to put the baby down, and so they are going to have to share.

They fit pretty well together on the pillow, though the cat is taking up most of the room and isn't thrilled about her new bedmate.

The look on the Tabby cat's face is absolutely priceless!

She made it very clear… that she was there first 😭 #newbornbaby #catandbaby #catsoftiktok #catmom #furbaby

From the video, we see that there are plenty of other places for this female cat to take her nap, including a couch.

So why did she select the baby pillow?

Well, first of all, cats are naturally curious, so if something is lying around her space, she is probably going to check it out.

Plus, it is soft and smells like a baby, which is intriguing to them.

And this is a comfy, cozy pillow, so it makes sense.

Related: Tabby Cat Steals Newborn Puppies and Decides They’re Her Babies

But similar to dogs, when you first bring your baby home, make sure you never leave your pet and newborn alone.

Give your cat space to adjust to the new addition. Don't corner them or restrain them and force them to get close to the baby.

They need to approach the baby on their own terms, and if that takes days or weeks, then so be it.

It is also good to let the kitty explore the baby's items when the baby isn't using them, so if you bring the crib or other supplies home before the baby arrives, be sure to let the cat explore.

Clearly, this feline is not only comfortable stealing the baby's pillow, but she'll deal with (albeit reluctantly) sharing a space with him.

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Certain foods are an acquired taste. Olives, liver, oysters, and other distinct flavors aren't for everyone. For selective eaters, even the most common food items can cause a reaction.

Athena the cat obviously has a picky palate and had a hard time deciding whether or not she likes a popular snack.

#cats #cat #funnycat #pet #kitten Athena really doesn't know if she wants the Cheetos or not...but num num num

In the TikTok from @amandamock2, Athena's mom let the pretty kitty try some Cheetos. She held one out and Athena happily obliged, giving it a few licks while loudly purring in approval.

All of a sudden, Athena had a change of heart and hissed in a mix of anger and disgust. Her mom was bewildered by her flip-flop of feelings and took the Cheeto away. She gave it another try and offered it again to the feline fur baby, who gladly accepted with the same joyful purr.

After a few moments of enjoying the cheesy snack, Athena changed her mind again and clearly expressed her distaste.

"Athena was begging to taste the Cheeto, and she has a love/hate relationship with it," the onscreen text read, with the caption adding, "Athena really doesn't know if she wants the Cheetos or not... but num num num."

Followers got a kick out of Athena's contrasting reactions and posted some comical comments.

"She only wanted it for the cheese powder and then said 'rotate this you peasant',” one noted.

"She's disgusted by her own greed," another remarked.

"You’re obviously supposed to know when she’s done," a fan pointed out.

She loves the taste, but she knows they aren't part of a healthy diet — she's smart," a follower posted.

"She hisses when the cheese disappears. I do that as well," someone shared.

While the cheesy snack isn't necessarily harmful for cats, Cheetos aren't a nutritious option to add to their diet. A few licks won't do any damage — your feline would have to go through a full bag to suffer any gastrointestinal consequences. Yet the long list of unnatural ingredients can have a negative effect on their digestive system.

Athena may have realized that while the salty finger food was yummy, it wasn't worth the risk.

Related: Orange Cat Escapes for an Outdoor Adventure and Immediately Regrets His Life Choices

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If your dog or cat gets bored easily—or seems to have a sixth sense for when you’re about to sit down and relax—this $5 Aldi find might be your new best friend.

The Heart to Tail Pet Puzzle Toy (Star), which will be available starting April 8 at Aldi, is an interactive toy made to keep smaller dogs and cats engaged, challenged and occupied.

And for just a few bucks, it delivers way more than you’d expect.

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This puzzle toy features multiple hidden compartments—up to 14 treat locations—where you can hide kibble or small treats. From there, it’s up to your pet to figure out how to get them out.

That means sniffing, pawing, nudging and problem-solving their way to each reward.

For dogs and cats, this taps into something instinctual. In the wild, they’d spend time foraging and working for their food, so giving them a puzzle like this mimics that natural behavior in a safe, controlled way.

Related: Dog Parents Swear By This Cute and Useful Puzzle Toy on Chewy for Beating Boredom

It’s easy to focus on physical exercise—walks, fetch, trips to the park, interactive play sessions—but mental stimulation is just as important for both dogs and cats.

Puzzle toys like this help tire pets out in a different way. Even 10 to 15 minutes of problem-solving can work their little brains, tiring them out in a different way than physical exercise.

For dogs, this kind of enrichment taps into natural instincts like foraging and working for food. For cats, it mimics hunting behavior, encouraging them to paw at and capture their "prey."

This can be especially helpful for high-energy or highly intelligent pets that need more than just physical outlets to stay balanced and well-behaved.

It’s also a great option for:

• Rainy days when outdoor time is limited
• Busy workdays when you need your pet to stay occupied
• Pets that tend to get into trouble when they’re bored

One of the best things about this toy is how easy it is to use. Just add treats, set it down and let your pet do the rest.

You can even adjust the difficulty by how you place the treats, making it a little easier for beginners or more challenging as they get the hang of it.

At just $5, it’s a low-cost way to add meaningful enrichment to your pet's routine.

Related: Amazon’s IQ Training Toy Will Have Your Pet Entertained for Hours

We choose our rescue dogs based on size and connection, but it is also nice to know their genetic makeup. DNA tests can also give us a heads-up on which breed-related health issues may arise in the future. Some breeds are more prone to hip dysplasia, while others are prone to heart, skin, and liver conditions. While it doesn't change how much we love them, I, for one, like to be prepared for the future. 

For some of us, pet parents, it is more about curiosity than anything else. Some rescues have the most unique looks, which are more than worth the wait for DNA tests to come back and tell us which breeds go into their adorable little faces. Reddit's DoggyDNA is a constant source of interesting doggie mixes. Some are downright cute while others are completely shocking. This Redditor's pups' results fall into a category of their own, leaving her utterly speechless.

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A Reddit DoggyDNA post took the original poster and fellow Redditors from fairly confident in a dog's breed to sheer disbelief, an occurrence that tends to happen on the platform. In this case, the OP, Typical_Following_87, shared a couple of pics with the group of their pup, who clearly looks like a tan-and-white cattle dog of sorts. They thought the mix was a cattle dog with a bit of Jack Russell terrier.

The group chimes in with their guesses, with many of them leaning towards the same conclusion. But the Embark test results show everyone just how very wrong they all are. Ranger has no cattle dog, and no came back as almost 42% Chinese Shar-Pei with 22% Boston Terrier.

Rounding out Ranger's surprising mix is 14% Yorkshire Terrier, 12% Beagle, and 9% Pomeranian. It's quite the handful of breeds for this clear "cattle dog" mix. While he might have a seriously interesting mix of DNA, he is one very gorgeous pup.

Related: Lab Heeler Mix’s DNA Results Are a Shocking Combination of Dog Breeds

His mom wasn't the only member of the group left speechless. Group members were equally puzzled. One writes, "I am often wrong on this sub, but never that wrong. lol." In this case, I feel like it's perfectly valid to be way, way off. There is no inclination from the photos that Rnager was anything other than a soft, fluffy cattle dog. I fully expected to see heeler and border collie gracing his DNA, along with something like Kelpie or Australian shepherd mixed in for good measure.

Another Redditor chimed in with, "Poster child for needing a DNA test to determine breed makeup." Ranger definitely demonstrates why dog DNA tests are worth it. But all in all, as Embark puts it, he is 100% Ranger and a certified good boy.

Related: Rescued Beagle Learning How to Play With Toys Tugs at the Heartstrings

Every office has that one employee who takes their job a little too seriously.

In this case, that employee was a tiny dog named Chewie, and his job was to protect everyone else. We can safely say that Chewie delivered. The moment a tiny alligator toy entered the premises, Chewie was there to protect everyone else.

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In a video shared on social media platform Reddit, we see Chewie running circles around the toy. We can instantly notice the bravery of this dog. He is determined and never shows any signs of fear or anxiety.

Instead, Chewie runs around the toy, barks, wags his tail, tries to grab the alligator and, eventually, brings him down to the ground.

This “threat” didn’t stand a chance. Chewie’s energy is unmistakable, proving that small dogs are sometimes more fearless protectors than large guard dogs.

Related: This Tiny Found Puppy Had a Surprise Plan After No One Claimed Him

Comedic interactions at work always prompt comedic responses. Fans praised Chewie’s bravery, saying, “Officezilla defeated, heck yeah,” “We need to write a book about this battle” and “Knowing I can sleep safely now that Chewie has felled the beast is a relief.”

After so many funny comments and some memes, Chewie’s parent weighed in. He said, “If this video somehow leads to a Hollywood special effects big budget blockbuster where a CGI Chiweenie battles an alligator similar to Godzilla vs Kong, that's progress.” We personally cannot wait to watch that.

Anyone who has lived with a small dog likely finds this behavior familiar because size rarely matches confidence. Many small breeds are wired to be alert, vocal and quick to respond to anything unusual. Historically, some were bred as watchdogs, meaning they had to react fast and loud to potential danger.

For example, Chihuahuas were initially bred to be guardians. They’ve retained that instinct to this day, which is why they bark a lot.

Moments like this are exactly why bring your dog to work day events have gained traction.

Having dogs in the workplace can reduce stress levels, encourage short breaks and even improve social interaction between coworkers. People naturally gather around a dog, and conversations may start more easily.

For the dogs, it provides mental stimulation and exposure to new settings. Instead of spending the entire day alone at home, they get to explore, observe and engage. Bringing pets to work also provides a comedy break. When Chewie battles with the toy, it triggers a brief, healthy mental reset for everyone watching, and we're so happy someone caught it on video.

Related: Adorable Puppy’s Obsession With One Stick Turns Into Pure Chaos

The responsibility of pet ownership goes far beyond the things we love. While cuddle sessions, treats and playtime are a big part of it, so are food, medical bills and the unexpected expenses that come along with being a pet parent.

Depending on your pet, the amount you spend each year can vary widely. Factors like breed, size, age and overall health all play a role, especially when you factor in recurring costs like food, training, routine checkups and the everyday essentials that keep them comfortable at home.

But like everything else right now, the cost of pet ownership is on the rise in 2026, leaving pet parents no choice but to get creative with their spending and prioritize what matters most.

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PeopleImages / Shutterstock.com

According to a recent report from MetLife Pet Insurance, the average pet parent spent roughly $2,360 on their pet in 2025, a noticeable jump from the year before. With costs continuing to climb across essentials like food, vet care and everyday needs, now more than ever a spotlight is being placed on what is truly necessary. In fact, health-related expenses alone accounted for more than $1,100 annually, highlighting just how quickly the cost of routine care and unexpected vet visits can mount up.

“While we know that rising costs are top of mind for many pet owners, it’s important to remember that investing in your pet’s health today can save you from bigger challenges tomorrow,” said Brian Jorgensen, CEO of MetLife Pet Insurance. 

As we all know, the numbers hardly ever lie. Rover’s 2025 True Cost of Pet Parenthood report notes that keeping a dog can cost between $1,390 and $5,295 per year, with a lifetime total of roughly $34,550 over 10 years. Cat care, on the other hand, is generally a bit more modest, with annual costs ranging from $760 to $3,495 and lifetime expenses around $32,170 over 16 years.

Related: These Popular Dog Breeds Struggle to Breathe: Study Reveals the Worst Offenders

With costs like these, it’s no surprise that pet parents are looking for ways to save in 2026 without compromising their pet’s health or happiness. Experts recommend a few practical strategies that are easy to implement and can save you money in the long run:

• Plan ahead on food and supplies: Buying in bulk or setting up subscription deliveries can save big money annually. Just be sure to stay on top of cancelling recurring orders when you don’t need them. 

• Invest in preventive care: Routine vet visits, vaccinations and parasite control help avoid expensive emergencies. Always ask your vet which vaccinations are a must, and which ones are ok to skip for the visit. 

• DIY where you’re comfortable: Home grooming, brushing or basic training at home can reduce service costs. YouTube is a huge source of information in this case, and can really come in handy teaching your pet positive habits without the need of hiring a professional.

• Shop smart: Compare brands before buying, take advantage of discounts or use loyalty programs to stretch your budget. 

• Set aside funds for surprises: Nearly one in three pet parents save for unexpected costs like unplanned vet visits. Setting a little bit a side at a time can make a big difference when you need it. 
• Consider pet insurance: About 18-percent of pet owners invest in insurance to cover vet costs, a third of which agree that it’s a smart way to reduce long-term expenses. If you can afford the monthly payment, shop around and find a quote that works within your budget.

With a little planning and these tips in mind, you can ensure the happiest, coziest life for your furry friend without overdoing it for your monthly budget. Stay consistent, cut where you feel safe and your little one will be happier because of it.

Related: Happy Akita Shows Off Hilarious Running Form, and Everyone Loves It: 'He's Got His Own Style'

Fancy, a pink tutu-wearing Pug, is celebrating her birthday in style. Sure, the adorable princess Pug may not actually know it’s her special day, but mom is making sure to celebrate her furry friend in style. That means a birthday outfit worthy of Pug royalty and a special meal that’s fit for a princess, er… a queen.

Keep reading to check out how Fancy celebrated her birthday, and to see the video of her awesome birthday celebration.

FANCY LOVES @McDonald’s !!!! Happy birthday to her!!! #dogmomlife #dogbirthday #mcdonalds

In a video shared to TikTok, Fancy can be seen sitting on her throne in the passenger seat of mom’s car. Not only is the Pug sporting her adorable pink tutu, Fancy has a birthday hat on as well.

Mom pulls up to the drive-thru at McDonald’s and lets the kind workers at the drive-thru window know it’s Fancy’s special day. The McDonald’s employees excitedly offer Fancy birthday greetings before delivering Fancy’s birthday meal through the window.

The Pug is so excited she starts growling at the very first sight of the iconic McDonald’s golden arches on the to-go box containing her birthday treats. It’s good to be the princess, especially when she’s a Pug.

Social media followers were all in on Fancy’s McDonald’s birthday party, with one writing, “birthday girl getting treated like the queen she is.” Another added, “Happy birthday gorgeous girl pug hugs and kisses enjoy your special day.”

“Happy bday pretty potato,” added another.

“Whatever makes them happy,” gushed one more.

#pug #roodabeguh

One commenter or two wasn’t happy with mom’s choice to feed her pup McDonald’s. Unseasoned patties are actually safe for dogs, as is a whipped cream “pup cup,” but generally nuggets, fries, cheese, and other fatty foods should be avoided. Much as our dogs love the taste, salty, fatty foods can give our furry friends pancreatitis and some seriously unpleasant diarrhea.

Happy birthday, Fancy! We hope you enjoyed your pup cup and unseasoned patty.

Related: Frenchie Finds Her 'First Best Friend' in Gentle Pit Bull and Our Hearts Can't Take It

Some puppies take their first beach trip and have no idea how to react. Not Miss Frankie the Golden Retriever. She went full beach potato mode immediately.

There's a cute TikTok set to Bob Marley's song, "Could You Be Loved," where Miss Frankie—an adorably chubby Golden Retriever puppy—arrives at the beach at sunset with her people. The caption reads, "Beach potato from the very beginning 🥹💛," which is honestly the most accurate description out there.

What happens next is pure sunset gold. Miss Frankie runs straight from her mom to dad's waiting arms. That's the whole, beautiful situation. And somehow it's the most precious thing you'll see today.

Beach potato from the very beginning 🥹💛 #puppy #goldenretrieverpuppy #puppies #goldenretrieverlife #puppylife

The comments are full of people losing it over her.

"Never seen chonky potatoes on the beach before 🥰," because this is a first for everyone.

"That wiggle butt just made my whole week!✨🥰🥰" Those little puppy runs hit different.

"I don't know which one is more beautiful, the puppy or the view behind her 😍" The sunset's nice, but let's be real, it's the puppy that’s stole the show.

Related: Golden Retriever Overcome With Pure Joy Reuniting With Mom After 2 Days Apart

"My heart is melting🥺," Same, girl, same.

Miss Frankie's not doing anything super dramatic or special. She's not swimming nor is she's playing in the waves. She's literally just existing on the beach in all it’s susnet, sandy glory, being round and fuzzy and running between her humans. This is absolutely peak beach potato behavior.

Here's why Miss Frankie is thriving at beach life at her ridiculously young age: Golden Retrievers were bred to retrieve birds from water. Swimming is not just something Retrievers are—it's literally what they were made for.

Their coats naturally resist water. Their paws are slightly webbed, which gives them extra power in the surf. Most Goldens don't need any encouragement to get in the water.  They love the water. The real problem's getting them back out.

Beach days are the perfect way to expend some energy for Goldens because running through sand is harder work than running on pavement, which means it’s an excellent exercise for high-energy dogs like Retrievers. Plus swimming, chasing balls, exploring new smells—all that mental and physical stimulation makes for one very content Golden by evening.

Goldens also do great around people. Kids, other dogs, strangers wanting to say hi—that's a Golden's dream crom true. They want to be right in the middle of everything going on, which makes beach trips fun for everyone instead of stressful.

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A few important things to know: saltwater's not healthyfor dogs to drink, so be sure to remember to bring fresh water. Hot sand can also hurt their little paws, so morning or later in the evening visits to the beach work better. And after every beach trip, rinse that thick coat with fresh water to prevent salt buildup and skin irritation.

Miss Frankie running between her humans at sunset, being an adorable chonky potato? That's a Golden Retriever doing exactly what Golden Retrievers are made to do.

The beach life chose Ms. Frankie and she’s not complaining.

What started as a heartbreaking scene ended in the kind of full-circle moment that restores your faith in humanity.

According to a Facebook post from the Auburn, Washington, Police Department, a police officer responded to a call of a German shepherd tied to a fence post—left out in the rain for more than 24 hours.

The dog, later named Zeus, was clearly in distress. Officer McNabb, the responder officer, stepped in to help, making sure Zeus was removed from the situation and given the care and attention he needed.

After getting Zeus to safety, Officer McNabb didn’t just walk away.

As the pup recovered, it became clear he was a sweet, gentle dog who just needed the right environment to thrive. And somewhere along the way, a bond started to form.

So instead of sending Zeus off to a shelter or rescue, McNabb made a decision that changed both of their lives. He adopted him.

The department shared the heartwarming news in a Facebook post with a sweet message: “We’re happy to share that Zeus has found his forever home… with Officer McNabb, the very person who rescued him!”

The post included several photos of Zeus’s journey—from sitting in the back of McNabb’s patrol car after being rescued, to resting on a dog bed at the station, and finally settling into his new home. It also looks like Zeus has a new “brother”—a black Lab already part of McNabb’s family.

This outcome feels especially meaningful given where Zeus started. From being abandoned, tied up and left in the rain to now having a safe, warm home with someone who already proved they’d go out of their way to protect him.

Related: Pit Bull Mix Abandoned in New York Woods Now Living His Best Life After Rescue

People in the comments were quick to celebrate Zeus’s happy ending and praise Officer McNabb for stepping up.

“Officer McNabb is now my favorite person,” one commenter wrote.

Another added, “He’s such a handsome boy! Glad he has a new loving home.”

And one comment summed it up perfectly: “Such a handsome fella. Thank you for rescuing him—twice!!”

Stories like Zeus’s are hard to read, but they also highlight the impact one person can make.

In this case, it was an officer who saw a dog in need and chose to step in—and then go one step further by welcoming him to his family.

Related: Rescue Dog's Transformation From 'Struggling With No Fur' to 'Golden Girl' Is Miraculous

Parade Pets aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Looking for the perfect Easter basket gift for your children? A deal that will keep them entertained for hours, and that you'll love too? Then you'll be thrilled with this adorable 326-piece LEGO set that's on sale. The LEGO Creator 3 in 1 Cute Bunny Toy is just $16 on Amazon.

This 3 in 1 set lets you and your child build three of the cutest animals from the same set of bricks. You'll want to start with the adorable little bunny. After that, the same $16 kit can be used to build a llama and a seal!

(And this LEGO kit is a great deal. The 258-piece LEGO rabbit kit is $36 on Amazon!)

And after each animal's built, your child can pose them in all sorts of cute ways, thanks to the moveable joints. The bunny's head, ears, forelegs and hind legs all move! The llama's ears, head, tail and feet move. And the seal's head, neck and flippers move too.

This LEGO kit includes accessories, including:

• Sunflower for the bunny
• Carrot for the bunny to hold
• Sheet of ice for the seal
• Fish for the seal
• Patch of grass for the llama
• Top of a carrot for the llama

One buyer writes on Amazon:

Courtesy of Amazon

Don't forget that the building kit also comes with access to the LEGO Builder app. This app can guide your child step-by-step through building any of these cute animals if they need any help.

This set has a remarkable 4.8 out of 5 star rating on Amazon with more than 1,900 reviews.

Buyers adore how cute these animals look, how easy they are to put together, and what a great gift they make for their children's Easter baskets.

Check out just a few of the five-star reviews for this product:

• "Love the seal so much, super cute and easy to build!!"
• "An absolute hit in our house! The bunny build is incredibly cute, with thoughtful details like movable ears, a carrot, and even a sunflower. ... The instructions are clear and kid-friendly, and at 326 pieces, it’s the perfect balance between challenging and doable."
• "Was an Easter gift for my grandson, he loved putting it together. It’s so cute."

Don't miss out on this $16 LEGO Creator 3 in 1 Cute Bunny Toy. The bunny, llama and seal are just so cute, and you and your child are going to love making each of them. And then you can put whichever you like the best on display! (Although picking one could be tough.)

Related: Amazon Is Selling an 'Adorable' 258-Piece LEGO Set Perfect for Rabbit Lovers

Benny is a Hermosa Beach, California-based Golden Retriever determined to make every guest feel welcome. The cute canine has nominated himself as his neighborhood welcoming committee, a committee that has only one member—Benny. Take a look at a video going viral on social media showing Benny at work, making all guests feel welcome. With a welcome committee this cute, who wouldn’t want to come over?

In a video that graced our TikTok feed, this gorgeous Golden Retriever can be seen sitting on his porch with a welcome mat nestled behind him. With the door open and mom sitting close behind, Benny eagerly awaits all visitors with open paws.

“Hello welcome home would you like to come in ?” #bennythegolden #goldenretriever #dogsoftiktok #goldenretrieverpuppy #goldenretrieversoftiktok

Benny stoically sits on the porch awaiting new visitors. Charmingly, when the content creator creating the video gets close, Benny doesn’t bark or jump into the human’s space. He just patiently waits as if he’s thinking, “What took you so long to get here?”

It’s safe to assume that Benny is the neighborhood’s most charming ambassador who makes everyone feel at home.

Everyone deserves a greeting like this.#Goldenretriever #puppylovers #puppytiktok #GoldenRetrieverUSA

Some commenters think Benny’s stoic welcoming is giving cranky “old man” vibes, while others note Benny is perched in the typical “Golden stance.”

Another commenter says that if Benny could talk, he’d be telling her she’s “half a minute late.”

We choose to believe Benny’s not cranky or “judging,” as one commenter observed. This gorgeous Golden Retriever is just eagerly awaiting a visit from a friend. After all, Golden Retrievers are one of the most social and gregarious dog breeds. It’s hard to imagine a Golden Retriever in a bad mood, unless one is, in fact, late or not coming over to play.

Thanks for the warm welcome, Benny. Let’s play!

Related: Sneaky Golden Retriever Gets Caught Stealing 20 Pairs of Socks From Mom

Some cats just appear out of thin air and stare at you, while some meow extra loudly to let you know it’s bedtime. Pip the Orange cat? He's extra special, and he’s got a whole precious production to get his way.

There's a TikTok where Pip's mom shares his simple and sweet nightly routine, and the caption reads, "This is how he tells me it's bedtime. He does this every night. I love my orange boy! Pip and Owl (his beloved stuffed toy). Pipples and Wubbles."

What Pip does is genuinely adorable: he brings his stuffed owl to his mom. Every. Single. Night.

It's his signal to her. His way of saying, "Okay, we're done here, time for bed now."

The precious video shows sweet Pip carrying his little stuffed toy, Owl, and at the end, he looks directly into the camera like, "Mama, come on now." Message received loud and clear, Pip.

People in the comment section couldn't handle the cuteness of it all.

"You can't tell me that dogs and cats don't have souls," somebody wrote about Pip's personality.

"Sooooo precious!" captured the most common reaction.

Related: Orange Cat Looks Just Like a Lion While Showing Off His 'Spring Shave'

"He brought you his baby, and now it's nighttime. What a precious lil boy 😿" understanding the significance of Pip sharing his most important possession with his human.

And this one in particular is relatable to most feline parents: "My ginger cat just screams at me from the top of the stairs, lol. Get up here now, it's time to cuddle. lol."

Orange cats have their methods. Some will come to you with bedtime loveys. Some are very direct and don’t have the patience for you to figure it out, so they just yell from upstairs. One thing is for sure: they all have opinions about when bedtime should happen, and they’re always right.

Here's why Pip's bedtime ritual makes total sense: orange cats are frequently described as "velcro cats." They follow their people around, want to be wherever the humans are, and form strong routines around their favorite person's schedule. In other words, they just love to love you, and if they do, let them.

Most orange cats—about 70 to 80 percent—are male. And male cats tend to be more social, more confident, and more people-focused than females on average. So when you meet a friendly, attention-seeking Orange cat like Pip who's developed such a precise bedtime routine, you're probably seeing typical male cat behavior getting credit as "Orange cat behavior."

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Orange cats are also known for being extremely vocal and expressive. They know that making noise gets attention. They also learn that communicating with their humans gets results, so they develop ways to make their needs known. For Pip, that's bringing his stuffy, Owl.

The routine part? Cats generally like predictable schedules. When something works—and they get the reaction they wanted—they stick with it. They’re smart.

Pip bringing that owl every single night isn't random; it's his bedtime routine signaling to his humans, "I'm ready for bed, and you should be too. Let’s go!"

And that last precious look at the camera? That's Mr. Pip wondering why Mama's still filming instead of following him to their comfy bed for cuddles, where she belongs.

Pip has spoken. Bedtime's happening. Come on, Mom.

There is a very specific kind of peace that comes from watching a mama cat with her babies, and this is exactly that. No chaos, no drama, just warmth and soft little movements and that low, steady sound that somehow makes everything feel calmer.

You can already tell this is going to be one of those clips you sit with a little longer than you meant to.

The kittens are 3 weeks old now! #mainecoon #kitten #cutekitten #kittensoftiktok #cattok

@wildmane_mainecoons shared the sweet update that the kittens are now 3 weeks old, and their mom, Honey, is fully in her element. Curled around her babies, grooming them, nursing them, and purring so loudly you can actually hear it through the screen.

Turn up your volume for this one, because the purring is constant. This Maine Coon mama is licking them, pulling them close, keeping them tucked in, just completely locked into mom mode like nothing else exists.

Related: Tabby Cat Steals Newborn Puppies and Decides They’re Her Babies

People in the comments were immediately wrapped up in it. One person wrote, “You just know it smells like baby powder,” which feels weirdly accurate. Another said, “The best cuddle puddle ever,” and honestly, that might be the official term now.

Others could not get over how loving she is, with comments like, “Mama loves those kittens so much,” and “She is an aggressively loving mama,” which is exactly the vibe. Just full, nonstop care.

There were also the people who fully surrendered to the feeling, like, “This kind of ASMR is blasting serotonin into my system currently,” and “This is the definition of cuteness overload,” which… yes. That is exactly what is happening here.

And then, of course, “Sorry, you have to keep all of them, I don’t make the rules,” which feels like something we have all thought at least once.

Watching this made me think about how fast my cat Meatball grew, because one minute he was this tiny little thing, and the next, he was fully crushing me as he lay on my chest like a weighted blanket with a shedding problem.

Image via Shutterstock / Nadia Cruzova

Maine Coon kittens grow incredibly fast compared to most other cats, especially during their first year. In those early weeks, like at 3 weeks old, they are still small and dependent, but things change quickly.

Within just a few months, they start to gain size, strength, and personality at a pace that can feel a little shocking. Maine Coons are one of the largest domestic cat breeds, and they continue growing longer than most kitties, often not reaching full size until they are 3 to 5 years old.

That said, the most dramatic growth happens early on. One minute, they are tiny, sleepy babies tucked into a cuddle pile, and the next, they are long, fluffy, slightly chaotic teenagers taking up way more space than you expected.

And if you have ever had a Maine Coon, you know exactly how fast that shift happens.

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Both of my dogs love their toys. My Dachshund and Pug mix will dig through any clutter to get to their puffy plushies and won't rest until they sink their teeth into a fluffy stuffy. While some dogs consider plush toys a security item to snuggle, my pooches view them as objects to hunt and retrieve.

Maverick the Golden Retriever prefers to weed out all his toys and spend some quality time with the basket that holds them.

In the TikTok from @maverickthegolden, the playful pooch rifled through his mountain of toys piled in the corner. Some were in a box while others were in a white woven basket. His mom was less than thrilled with Maverick plowing through the plushies.

"You know, I just cleaned all them and stacked that nice and neat," she told him, as he paid particular attention to the toys in the basket.

"Gosh forbid I actually use a basket for its intended use, which is to hold toys," she remarked as Maverick continued to dig out every item.

His mom tried several times to stop him, but Maverick was a man on a mission and wouldn't stop until he achieved his goal. The determined dog didn't seem to notice that toys were strewn about on the floor.

"I cleaned all day, Mav, you're ruining it," she said, but couldn't hold back a laugh.

The conscientious canine tore through all the toys and finally emptied the basket. While Maverick was pleased with the victory, he was also completely winded. The gorgeous Golden stared into the camera, panting after his hard work.

"You're overheating, and it's not because of a walk or anything," his mom pointed out. "It's because you're beating that basket up."

Maverick got into a cozy position on the rug and snuggled up to the basket, content with his accomplishment.

Followers were impressed by Maverick's tenacity, with some thinking he may have been looking for a specific toy or counting his collection.

Related: Senior Golden Retriever Refusing to Acknowledge New Puppy's Existence Is Totally Savage

"He said, I’m taking inventory lady," one remarked.

“Why would you put my favorite toy at the bottom of the stack?" another joked.

"Well, obviously you didn’t pick them up right and he wanted to let you know that," a follower pointed out.

"Suddenly he needs the one from the bottom of the basket," someone posted.

Maverick's mom may keep the basket empty from now on so the pooch won't overwork himself.

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