Parade Pets

There's a great big world out there, and seeing it through the eyes of a little kitten is truly something special.

Angus, and adorable Orange Cat from the United Kingdom is no stranger to being shared online. His account (human managed, kitten approved) on TikTok regularly updates viewers on his life a 14-week-old "ginger cat."

Recently, a video of Angus exploring playing with bubbles for the first time graced our phone screens, and the results are nothing short of absolutely precious.

Just a boy and his bubbles🫧🫧 #orangekitten #catsoftiktok #cutekitten #kitten #catslovers

Angus is, as described in the caption of the viral video, "just a boy and his bubbles." His adorable wonder and fascination with the new playtime activity can completely be felt through the screen.

Commenters agreed chiming in with pictures of their own kittens and cats enjoying some bubble time, and the camaraderie is nothing short of adorable.

Playing with a kitten is one of the most fun parts about having a new furry friend in your life and household. While there are plenty of toys on the market, getting creative and coming up with new and innovative ways to play is a great way to bond with your new kitten.

Some fun games to play with your kitten for enrichment could be:

• Mimicking what it's like to "hunt" in the wild with stalking, chasing, catching, and more
• Similarly, many cats love playing "hide and seek"
• Toys like wands, crinklers, and things that can be pounced on are a great option
• DIY mazes and structures are fun to climb and hide in
• Some kittens can be taught to play fetch
• Even virtual cat TV is a great option for mental stimulation

There are plenty of fun ways to play with your kitten. Whether it be bubbles or anything else, just finding ways to spend time together is a great place to start.

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Related: Precious Orange Kitten Basking in His Garden Is Melting Hearts

Life with a senior dog is a lot of things. Particular, ever-changing, and often oh-so-hilarious.

User @hedwig.co often takes to TikTok to share their life with as they put it, "[a] grumpy senior rescue chihuahua and 4 kitties." The grumpy Senior Chihuahua in question is especially persnickity, and full of personality.

Recently, a video of the pup went viral on the social media app for his hilarious reaction when he knows his pupporoni bites have been "spiked" with his medication. His face truly says it all while he navigates trying to outsmart the bites and the meds.

He knows I've betrayed him #seniordog #rescuedog #chihuahua

The viral video, which has been viewed over 1.2 million times on TikTok, shows the funny older chihuahua sneering while being asked to eat his "treats" and "food." He knows the meds are in there and he is not having it!

Viewers at the video up (unlike the pup and his treats) and were all over it.

"He is not in the mood for roni roulette 😆"

"What’s hilarious is the fact that he could literally just walk away if he didn’t want the pupperoni but instead he stands there just madder than a tiny badger 😂"

"Senior dogs sense of "pill smell" needs to be studied!!"

Photo by Jessie Nelson on Unsplash

Living with an older, more senior pet comes with its own set of unique challenges. It requires a new level of accommodation and adapting your space to make sure you're meeting their own unique needs at this new stage of their life.

When you're transitioning your life to accommodate a senior dog it's important to consider a few things:

• Mobility can become a huge concern with older animals, so be sure to attend to that first.
• Dental disease is very common in older animals, so staying on top of teeth care is also very important.
• Joint supplements and other vitamins can help with arthritis and other ailments.
• It may be time to update their diet to something specific for seniors.
• Food puzzles and little training sessions can help with cognitive function.
• Make sure to pay attention to their body quality as senior dogs can start to lose the ability to regulate their temperatures.

As with all things related to your pet, consulting your vet is the first step as they can be yours and your dog's biggest ally during the aging process.

Living with a senior dog does require work, but it's well worth it. Just make sure you're ready for some senior sass. Especially when you taint their favorite snack with their meds!

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Related: Stray Senior Dog Faced Unimaginable Pain but Never Stopped Being Gentle

Kittens are born naturally adorable, but it's hard to know what they'll look like as they grow. When Persian kitten Princess Paw came into the world, she didn't look like her siblings—she looked like a tiny, electrified mango. And the internet hasn't recovered since.

Catch Princess Paw and her wispy, chaotic tangerine fur in the sunlight, and you'll think she's been run through the dryer:

Ela sempre acorda assim 😍 . . #gato #persa #gatopersa #LIVEIncentiveProgram

Cat dad Rafael Borges is one lucky pet parent to have found such a rare kitten like Princess Paw. Whether she's playfully exploring or loafing and admiring Dad, her "always tired" appearance has everyone absolutely smitten. You can tell how carefree and confident she is—she's going to be one sassy lady!

Rafael rescued the sweet girl back in May, knowing she'd need some extra TLC. With bottle feeding, lots of love, and navigating a skin and coat condition that created her trademark "mango strand" hair, Princess Paw is thriving. Persian cats are notorious for having skin and coat issues, but with diligent grooming and vet checkups, they make the sweetest companions.

Related: This Persian Cat's Neon Gold Eyes Look Like Two Tiny Suns, and We Can't Look Away

As of June 20, Rafael's update said that Princess Paw is being treated by a vet and is already growing new fur. She'll have the plush, fluffy coat Persians are known for in no time!

Princess Paw is clearly the light of Dad's world. He likes comparing her electrified hair to the funniest things to show her vibrant personality. Rafael has joked that the kitty looks like a caterpillar, an orange wisp, a mango strand, and even a soccer player because she never sits still:

Depois de comer quase 1kg de ração 🤣 A process princesa já está nascendo os pelos novos, o tratamento com o veterinário está fluindo bem 😊 #gato #persa #gatopersa

As one of the oldest cat breeds, Persian cats are charming, intelligent, and mellow companions, best suited for quieter households, as they're not fans of loud noises or changes in their environments.

Their abnormally long hair stems from a genetic mutation that interferes with hair protein function, but it can be treated by a vet to help new hair come in thick and luxurious. With the right care and devoted pet parents, Persian kittens will grow to be the most amazing little sidekicks.

As for Princess Paw and her "mango strand" look, she's well on her way to becoming a full mango one day!

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One of the best parts about living your life with a pet companion is getting to show them a great big world in their unfairly short lives. For Hilde, the human behind the social media account @ant_arct_ica, this involved taking her beautiful senior Husky, Inuq, on some truly impressive and breathtaking hikes.

In a video shared to TikTok, Hilde shows the view behind a nap Inuq took on a recent hike. The aesthetic is unmatched and Inuq clearly has the best view for his rest.

And it’s my favourite part of our hikes 🏔️💚 #mountain #seniordog #husky #hiking #explore #sweden #dogsthathike #seniordogsofinstagram

Comments on the video flooded in commenting on the view and also sharing the love for our older, senior pets.

"Please don’t tell me this my future. I miss her already."

"old dogs are such a special type of love. I have to bring a dog stroller for mine and id happily push it for the rest of my life"

"no way id be able to look at them and not cuddle up into a ball next to them.. that's what I always do with my husky😂🤗"

Senior dogs are absolutely still able to hike and maintain their activity levels, it just requires some mindfulness and adjustment on their human's part.

Some easy adjustments that can be made for senior pups who are accompanying you on a hike:

• Let your dog set their pace and meet them where they're at.
• Shorten the duration of your hike to being more easy on them from a strenuous perspective.
• Avoid things with rough terrain or too much elevation.
• Make sure to watch the weather so the climate isn't too hot or cold.
• Always bring ample water and keep your eye on them for hydration.
• A sturdy harness with a handle can help in terms of support and mobility.
• Allow ample time in between hikes and exercise for your dog to rest and recoup.
• As with anything else, always consult a vet to make sure you know what medically makes sense for your dog.

Hiking and exercising with your dog can continue to be a great bonding activity even in their senior years, it's just important to do so wisely and smartly to make sure you're doing right by your pet. Doing everything with their best interest in mind is how you can continue to have great times together, with beautiful views and naps included as well.

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Related: Senior Pug Is the Sneakiest Thief — and We Support Her Crimes

There’s something undeniably beautiful about seeing wild horses roaming free. But even after five years as a wild horse photographer documenting bands across Wyoming, Montana, Utah, Arizona, and California, Maureen Armstrong recently experienced something she had never witnessed before.

That moment came when a curious band of wild horses emerged one by one from dense willow trees along Arizona’s Lower Salt River. What happened next looked like something straight out of a movie.

You can see the breathtaking moment unfold in this June 18 Instagram from @maureenarmstrongphotography:

“In all my years filming wild horses, this was a first! The wild horses found us!” Armstrong wrote in her caption. “And what made this moment so unforgettable was how they appeared. There was something almost dreamlike about it. One by one, they stepped from the shadows of the dense willows until the entire band was looking at us.”

Armstrong and her family were trying to determine how to get out of the horses’ way and weren’t sure what the band planned to do next.

Related: Village in England Where Ponies Run Free Is Like Something Out of a Fairytale

“After a few minutes, one stallion began pushing the band down the embankment into the river while another stallion stayed behind, keeping a watchful eye on us as the rest of the band crossed the river,” she wrote. “Watching them move through the water in a long line felt like a scene from an old Western movie.”

Viewers were equally captivated by the encounter, with many noting how calm and well-behaved Armstrong’s Australian Shepherd, Rocker, remained throughout the experience.

“That’s my idea of heaven on Earth!” commented one viewer.

Another wrote, “It’s so nice to see them without saddles on their backs or anything covering their eyes or attached to a carriage. Just being free the way they were meant to be.”

“Wow, absolutely heart-stopping and breathtaking,” added another.

The Lower Salt River is home to one of Arizona’s most well-known wild horse herds. As many as 300 horses roam the area in family bands spread across roughly 20,000 acres of Forest Service land that includes 12 miles of the lower Salt River, according to Visit Mesa. The herd descends from horses associated with the region’s Akimel O’odham communities, as well as from those brought by early settlers. Today, the horses are watched over by the Salt River Wild Horse Management Group, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving their freedom and ensuring humane management.

For anyone who can’t get enough of these majestic animals, Armstrong regularly shares photographs and videos of wild horses from across the West, including this June 5 Instagram featuring some truly stunning images:

If you’re still deciding on a travel destination this summer, the Lower Salt River in Arizona is proof that the best wildlife encounters often happen when you least expect them, and that’s reason enough to add wild horse watching to your vacation plans.

If you're on the hunt for the perfect new garden accent, Hobby Lobby is a great place to start. Beyond its wide selection of arts and crafts supplies, the popular retailer is also home to a surprising number of animal-adjacent finds. From everyday pet supplies to whimsical garden decor, you never know what you'll come across.

Take the Cafe Wood Bird Feeder, for example. This charming $14 garden accent resembles a quaint little French cafe and adds a splash of cottagecore charm to any space. Easy to use and even easier to maintain, it's a delightful seasonal upgrade both you and some local winged visitors can enjoy.

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Hobby Lobby

When it comes to easy ways to elevate your space for the warmer months, a bird feeder is a wonderful place to start. Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, the right one can not only provide a welcoming landing pad for neighborhood birds to swoop in and explore but also elevate an existing decor theme or serve as a charming centerpiece.

Hobby Lobby's Cafe Wood Bird Feeder effortlessly does all three, featuring a charming cafe-inspired display complete with a striped canopy, white picket-fence accents and decorative barrels around its square base. Multifunctional and easy to maintain, its teal-blue roof features a hinged opening that allows birdseed to be poured inside, while four shallow arches along the base let birds peck at the seeds below.

Related: Hobby Lobby's $12 Sunflower Bird Feeder Is a Beautiful Garden Upgrade

One of the really cool things about bird feeders is that they aren't just charming home and garden accents; they also come with a handful of natural benefits for both you and the local wildlife. According to experts, even a simple feeder like the Cafe Wood Bird Feeder can help create a more welcoming environment while also giving birds a reliable place to stop, rest and refuel. Other benefits include:

• Attracts a wider variety of birds to your yard year-round.
• Adds movement, color and natural beauty to outdoor spaces.
• Creates a relaxing atmosphere for bird watching at home.
• Provides birds with an additional food source during nesting, migration and colder months.
• Serves as both a functional wildlife feature and a decorative garden accent.

Hobby Lobby

At the moment, fan reviews have yet to pour in. However, the feeder has already earned itself a five-star rating. And considering no assembly is required, it's easy to see why. All you have to do is hang it from a post, garden stake or tree branch, fill it with seed and sit back as birds stop by to inspect their new break spot. 

As for its size, the feeder stands nine inches tall, with a width and depth of seven inches, giving it a noticeable footprint while remaining compact. Even better, because it can be used indoors and out, you don't have to use it as a bird feeder if you don't want to. It can easily double as a charming accent for a summer cottage, beach house or guest bedroom, as well as a simple upgrade to a front porch, back porch or any other outdoor setting.

Just be sure to snag one fast. It may be in stock now, but once word gets out, it's only a matter of time before everyone else adds one to their carts. While you're at it, check out Hobby Lobby's Birds & Flowers Coir Doormat and matching Birds & Flowers Mug for even more bird-inspired must-haves.

Related: Shoppers Are Racing to Grab Five Below's $20 253-Piece Parrot Lego Set

Though Gorillas aren't considered pack animals, they are very social and live in tight-knit groups called "troops." Average troops usually consist of approximately 5 to 10 Gorillas but can contain more than 50.

This mother Gorilla definitely had her support system surrounding her when it was time to give birth, where her BFFs acted as doulas in helping the delivery.

One of the most beautiful moments in the wild is when a mountain gorilla mother welcomes a new baby into her family. After about 8.5 months of pregnancy, she gives birth to a tiny infant weighing around 2 kilograms. From the very first moment, the mother holds her baby close, protecting and caring for it with incredible tenderness. Seeing a newborn gorilla in the forest is a powerful reminder of how precious and delicate life is in the wild. 🦍💚🌿 📍 Experience the magic of mountain gorillas in Uganda. 🌍 www.Kisembosimbauganda.com 📧 kisembosimbauganda@gmail.com 📱 +256773286136 🎥 Repost video credit: @jerry_adriko #MountainGorillas #GorillaTrekking #VisitUganda #WildlifeConservation #ExploreUganda

In the TikTok from @kisembosimbauganda, the mama mountain Gorilla cradled her infant as her friends looked on and formed a protective circle around the mother and newborn. The video beautifully illustrated the camaraderie between these majestic animals and how they lean on each other through life's major events.

"One of the most beautiful moments in the wild is when a mountain Gorilla mother welcomes a new baby into her family," the caption shared. "After about 8.5 months of pregnancy, she gives birth to a tiny infant weighing around 2 kilograms. From the very first moment, the mother holds her baby close, protecting and caring for it with incredible tenderness."

Followers noted the strong bond between the adult Gorillas and how the two friends served as midwives:

• "The way they’re helping her and so eager to see the baby," one pointed out.
• "Midwives are found in almost every mammalian species — it’s one of the oldest jobs on the planet," another shared.
• "She has a better support system than most humans do," a follower remarked.
• "This mama had so much help," someone posted.
• "The doula and the auntie got her back," a fan commented.

Female Gorillas usually give birth at night when the forest is calm and quiet, with their female troop making sure the area is safe. The mother Gorilla sometimes isolates herself when labor begins while the troop stays close by as an encouraging presence.

The females in the troop offer subtle support throughout labor and delivery, especially those who've had babies of their own. By staying close and remaining calm, these female Gorillas provide the mother with a sense of security.

Related: Newborn Kittens Light Up the Second Their Mom Returns to Them

The Gorilla group celebrates when the baby arrives, with some gently approaching the mother to see the newborn while keeping a respectful distance. The dynamics of the troop evolve to accommodate their newest member, with everyone working together to protect and nurture the infant. The new baby ends up strengthening the bond of the entire troop.

This mama Gorilla definitely has a solid foundation of friendship to help raise her new baby.

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Not all dogs will be presented with the opportunity to become a hero, but the ones who do can end up surprising their humans with their incredible bravery.

It almost sounds like a cliché for a dog to save someone from a burning building, but in this case, it really happened. This Poodle rescued his mom when their house caught fire in the middle of the night, and he's the reason she's still alive to tell the tale.

The home in West Milford, Passaic County caught fire as the owner was sleeping Friday morning.

On TikTok, an ABC News affiliate shared what happened to New Jersey woman and dog mom Aida Kelly when her house was ablaze in the early hours of Friday morning. Before she'd woken up or even heard fire alarms, her three year old pup, Squilliam (likely named after the Spongebob Squarepants character of the same name), started barking, making sure she woke up.

Once she realized what was going on, she and Squilliam were able to escape. Her home is gone forever, but this dog and his mom are safe, and that's all because of his quick thinking.

Squilliam is such a good boy for taking action like this, even though he must have been so scared. It's a relief to hear that he and his mom are doing okay!

Related: This Standard Poodle Looks Like Somebody Trapped a Victorian Man in a Dog Body

Barking is a big way that your dog will try to alert you that something is amiss — even if that something is simply the mail being delivered.

But when they're really trying to get your attention about impending danger, they may show other signs that what they're alerting you to is serious this time.

According to Wag, to know if your dog is trying to warn you of something, you may notice that they're exhibiting these behaviors:

• They're closely following someone
• They're hyperactive and/or shaking
• They're having a negative reaction to a stranger when they're normally more friendly
• They're scratching at a door
• They're barking and/or growling persistently

In general, if your dog is acting out of character, it could be a sign that something's up. Trust their gut (and yours) and find out what might be stressing them out. You never know what they might be trying to save you from!

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Saint Bernards are big enough that they could blend in on a farm and no one would ask any questions. From far enough away, you could absolutely convince me a Saint Bernard was just one of those fluffy miniature cows.

In the wild, though, they also blend in. When one Saint Bernard was crossing a creek recently, people everywhere were quick to wonder why his mom was standing so close to a water buffalo:

I let myself out with my snoot. It’s summer so I have to head to the creek. My hoomans always retrieve me. #saintbernard #thejowltowel #bigdogs #drool #summertimefun

Wallace the Saint Bernard is definitely giving water buffalo vibes. Apparently, he was actually on the lam in this clip: he likes to sneak out of the house by himself and go live out his buffalo fantasies in the creek. You can even see the team getting in place to hoist him out of there.

It's going to be tough: in addition to being a master escape artist and a professional swimmer, Wallace probably weighs close to 200 pounds, meaning it's going to be tough as anything to move him. If Wallace does not want to go, he's not going to go. That's how that works.

Related: Fluffy Saint Bernard Puppies Look Like Real-Life Snoopys

Wallace is big into the water. He loves to swim, though he's big enough to stand in a lot of the water he plays in. Usually, he goes to his creek, but his parents recently took their water buffalo to the beach:

The creek situation has escalated. #saintbernard #dogsoftiktok #bigdog #dogtok #wallace

Amazing. I hope they're prepared, though, because he's definitely going to make a run back to the sea as soon as he can. That's his right! The water just calls to him!

Clearly, swimming is one of Wallace's favorite pastimes. He loves it, but not all dogs will love swimming, even when they're from a breed that typically likes it. It all comes down to their own preferences and experience.

JJ van Ginkel / Getty Images

Saint Bernards typically enjoy the water, though going for a full, vigorous swim is not great for them. They're heavy dogs and too long in the water can cause:

• Muscle strain.
• Shortness of breath.
• Exhaustion.

They much prefer casual swimming, or better yet, water they can just wade in. Whenever they can go full water buffalo is when they're at their happiest!

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Anyone who has raised both dogs and cats knows that they are two very different species of animals, but they have more in common than some might think. And under certain circumstances, they can form the sweetest bonds.

After one Rottweiler struggled to make friends with other dogs, he found his soulmate in the form of the teeniest kitten ever.

These two are so cute together. Take a look:

words can’t even describe how happy it makes me seeing him being so gentle and opening up again to having a new sister🥺 #rottweilersoftiktok #catsoftiktok #catsanddogs

Boomer's story began in a heartbreaking way: He was attacked by two dogs, so of course he's been a little leery about approaching others to be friends. Who could blame him for protecting himself in the best way he knows how?

So instead, this tiny kitten became the ideal buddy for him, and it didn't take long at all for them to be the cutest snuggle buddies.

"Words can’t even describe how happy it makes me seeing him being so gentle and opening up again to having a new sister," his mom wrote in her caption.

Rottweilers can be a little intimidating, sure, but not for this baby girl. She knows she can trust her big brother, and it looks like from day one, he's been keeping a very close eye on her:

Boomer is officially a big brother🥹 #bigbrother #kitten #fypシ

They're so lucky that they ended up living under the same roof. I hope their humans continue sharing more of their bond!

Related: This Mama Cat Refuses to Leave Her Tiniest Kitten Behind

Some big dogs can act like a bull in a china shop — the opposite personality of what you would expect to get along well with a tiny kitten. But surprisingly, Boomer's sweetness and gentleness isn't all that uncommon in big dogs like him.

As Wag points out, dogs (especially females) have an instinct to care for kittens, especially if they find one that was abandoned. Intrinsically, they know this tiny creature is just a baby in need of their help, and not a potential threat.

It comes naturally to them because they want to help the kitten survive. What's even sweeter is the fact that their bond can only grow stronger as the kitten grows up, which means that Boomer and his kitten could be at the start of a truly beautiful, lifelong friendship.

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Dogs who are abandoned often come with a lot of past trauma. These canines land in shelters with fears and insecurities that need time and patience to unravel and need a place where they can finally feel safe and let their guard down.

Dolly is a 10-month-old dog who was discovered with her two siblings. She's currently at the Maui Humane Society and struggling now that her siblings have their forever homes, leaving her at the shelter on her own.

Seeing Dolly come in happy and excited about life with her siblings then now after being at the shelter for months she’s falling apart. She climbs fences to escape when volunteers take her out. she wants so badly to go back to her kennel she doesn’t enjoy leaving it. She was so scared in her meet and greet for foster she hid in the corner of the yard the whole time. After they left she wouldn’t even go near the chairs they were in. She’s on anti anxiety medications. And given daily enrichment. She’s always paired with another dog in her kennel which she loves. They play together, play with toys together and snuggle on dog beds (her fave) once she knows you she is incredibly affectionate and sweet. Loves to gives kisses and is very food motivated (was found starving) Dolly is now 10 months old. What she needs is out of the shelter. She’ll be sent with a tracking collar since she is a big flight risk meaning she will dash out the door climb the fence escape if she can until she settles in. Dolly can’t keep living in fear at the shelter. It is heartbreaking. She’s not even a year old. No real background on cats. No pretty drive because she’s so terrified. Kids are a no she is too scared. Other dogs are a yes. Let’s get this puppy into a home and seeing what life is all about. Fostering (Maui based) is free. All supplies provided. Dolly is at Maui humane society with her buddy Lars. Adoption interest form in my bio for off island adoptions (other Hawaiian islands mainland USA and Canada if you can pick up at nearest US airport) #fyp #hawaiitiktok #maui #adoptdontshop #adoptme

The TikTok from @cassondrachristman told Dolly's story and how she's handling the shelter environment.

"She was found on Molokai with her siblings back in April," the on-screen text explained as Dolly stuck close to her two fur baby sibs in their kennel. "They were only 8 months old and the only home each other knew."

Dolly's siblings soon got adopted, leaving her behind on her own. The separation has been traumatic for the canine cutie.

"Without them, she became pretty scared," the story continued. "The only place she feels safe is her kennel."

The abrupt split from her siblings caused Dolly to be fearful of people. She's become a flight risk, which makes it difficult to get her adopted.

"She climbs fences to escape when volunteers take her out — she wants so badly to go back to her kennel," the caption explained. "She was so scared in her meet-and-greet for foster, she hid in the corner of the yard the whole time. After they left she wouldn’t even go near the chairs they were in."

Many shelter dogs come from traumatic backgrounds and need time to learn how to trust again. Some tips to keep in mind during this process include:

• Identify their triggers so you understand what you're dealing with and how to proceed.
• Provide safety and encouragement through soft, calm verbal affirmations and a quiet environment.
• Use positive reinforcement with praise and treats every time your dog takes a step of progress, no matter how small.
• Don't force your dog to take on a challenge they aren't ready for or are too anxious to attempt.
• Never punish fear — your dog needs to know that you are their safe place.
• Be extremely patient and go at your dog's pace.

Related: Rescue Dog Reunites With the Famous Foster Mom Who Saved Him—And His Reaction Was the Ultimate Gift

Dolly is currently on anti-anxiety medication, and the Maui Humane Society staff is committed to helping her conquer her fears. The precious pooch shares a kennel with her bestie fur baby Lars and loves being around other dogs. When she feels safe, Dolly is a total love bug who snuggles, gives kisses and plays with toys.

Dolly just needs a patient parent to give her the time and love she deserves. Hopefully, this sweet pup will soon have a forever home.

For more information on Dolly or the Maui Humane Society, visit their website.

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The cat has reviewed Cheddar the golden retriever. The verdict: not a threat. Not even a little bit. The cat has moved on.

The TikTok from @cheddarboy0 captures the whole thing in one text overlay: "Wouldn't last a day in the wild." The caption confirms: "All bark, no bite 😅"

Cheddar is aware of this. He simply doesn't care.

He announces himself with a lot of energy. The bark is big and the tail is even bigger. One commenter has already called it "the sweepiest tail of all time" and honestly, that tracks. He walks into every situation like he has a point to make and then makes absolutely no point except that he is thrilled to be here.

All bark, no bite 😅 #goldenretriever #cheddar

At some point, Cheddar starts doing what the comments correctly label, what looks like, the Thriller dance. Nobody asked for this but he's fully committed anyway.

The tuxedo cat has thoughts:

"The cat was like I don't got the energy for this 😂"

"Bro, it is 7 o'clock in the morning. It's too early for this!"

The cat isn't scared. He definitely isn't impressed in the least. He's got other things going on and he's not in the mood for Golden shenanigans.

Nina Pearman / Getty Images

The rest of the comments showed up for Cheddar:

"I often tell people my dog is an alert dog, not an attack dog. He'll let me know someone's here but he ain't gonna do shit about it 😂"

"I could hear Cheddar saying at the end, 'Yeah, that's what I thought?'"

"The most perfect example of black cat and golden retriever energy!"

"Alert dog, not attack dog" is the most accurate job description Cheddar has ever received. He has announcements. He has zero follow-through. This isn't a problem. Apparently, this is exactly what golden retrievers were always meant to be.

The "wouldn't last a day in the wild" thing is not an insult. It is a compliment from history.

According to Golden Rule Retrievers, golden retrievers were developed in Scotland in the late 1800s by Lord Tweedmouth, a British aristocrat who wanted a hunting dog that was also "a pleasure to watch work." Not a survivor and not a lone wolf, but a gentleman's companion who looked great and did what he was told.

Related: Mom-to-Be Practiced Swaddling on Her 80-Pound Bulldog—'You're a Beautiful Baby Boy'

These dogs were specifically bred to walk quietly and calmly beside their person or sit patiently and wait until called. Going off on their own and making independent decisions was never part of their job. Taking direction was the whole job.

They were also bred to have a 'soft mouth', meaning the ability to pick things up and carry them gently without causing damage. Cheddar was built to be soft. That's the entire point of Cheddar.

As for the cat, Golden Rule Retrievers notes that a good golden retriever is expected to get along well with both people and other animals. The cat's just another animal Cheddar is genuinely trying to befriend. He's doing his best. She is not making it easy.

He would not last a day in the wild. He was never meant to. The sweepiest tail, the Thriller dance and the all-bark energy are features, not bugs.

The cat's review stands. Cheddar genuinely does not mind.

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No dog amazes me quite like the Belgian Malinois. I wholeheartedly believe these pups are smarter than me, and they definitely are. Not only that, though: one of these dogs could beat in any race.

Just look at this Belgian Malinois: recently, she had a chance to scale a wall that's 14 feet high, and she did it with the ease of someone climbing up a short flight of stairs. It was swift and awesome and definitely deserves a huge round of applause:

4m30 wallclimb ✨ #belgianshepherd #fyp #sportdog #wallclimbingdog #wallclimb

Taiga the Malinois is very good at climbing walls, and my dog can't even climb onto the couch without getting offended that I didn't give her a boost. The caption says her wall climb was 4 meters and 30 centimeters, which converts to 14.1 feet.

It took her exactly three seconds to reach the top, where she grabbed onto a pad. Not only was this exercise a test of her climbing skills: they tested her jaw strength, too. I think it's safe to say she aced every single test.

Related: Belgian Malinois Has Perfect ‘Baby Yoda Ears’ and Everyone Is in Love

Taiga's mom gets a lot of comments asking if the princess ever gets to take a break and rest, so in one of her videos, she made something perfectly clear. Taiga spends about 10 percent of her life doing sporting events like these. The other 90 percent, she's a normal dog, having lots of normal fun:

In reality, her life is only 10% sports, and 90% normal dog life ✨#belgianshepherd #fyp #sportdog #dogcomunity #gotrainyourdog

Yes, a lot of her "fun" activities are also physical exercise, but the Malinois is a breed that thrives off of having structured stimulation. If Taiga's mom just wanted to snuggle all the time, she definitely wouldn't be very happy about it.

One of the most important things about having a Belgian Malinois is avoiding surprises. These dogs thrive in safe, structured environments, and wrenches in their plans can lead to habit regression or anger.

Nigel Jared / Getty Images

Working out a schedule that can stay relatively consistent every day will help you and your Belgian Malinois tremendously. Though it'll depend on your specific lifestyle, every day will need scheduled time devoted to:

• Exercise (ideally throughout the day, not all at once)
• Training to keep them sharp
• Resting to avoid muscle fatigue and exhaustion, which can lead to aggression
• Bonding time with you

While this is a strong, independent breed, they do still have their favorite humans. Making sure to bond with them increases morale, and it'll ultimately make it easier for you to keep up on their training. Luckily, Taiga trusts her mom completely!

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Becoming a first time mom as a human is overwhelming for sure, but imagine being a mama cat who just welcomed an entire litter of kittens who are depending on her!

The good news? Not only was the mama cat in the video below up for the challenge, but she knew exactly which of her kittens needed her love and attention most.

& she said what about it? Of course she brought the runt 🥹💗 #catsoftiktok #petsoftiktok #kitty #cat

While sometimes, mama cats will abandon the kittens in their litter who appear to be the weakest, in this case, she was doing the opposite. Not only is she keeping her tiniest baby close to her, but she even brought her into her human's bed to be safe and warm.

It's clear that this little runt feels so attached to her mama already. Look at her snuggling up so close to her!

In an earlier video, their human shared that mama had given birth in an underwear drawer. Pretty funny, but it makes sense; it probably felt safe and comfy in there!

I looked everywhere for her too #catsoftiktok #kitten #orangecat #crazycat

These kitties are still brand new to the world, but it's good to know they have a mom who is taking good care of them (and a human looking out for them, too).

Related: This Precious Stray Kitten Has the Best Reaction to Sleeping Inside for the First Time

Figuring out who the runt of the litter should be easy, right? It's just whoever the tiniest kitten is.

But technically speaking, there's more to the definition of the "runt" than that. As LoveToKnow Pets points out, the runt of the litter isn't just the smallest kitten, but also the weakest, indicating that they're likely going to need extra help in order to thrive.

You'll know that they're weaker than their siblings by watching out for the following signs:

• They're struggling to gain weight
• They don't seem to have as much energy as the other kittens
• They may not be making as much noise
• They may refuse to nurse or bottle feed
• They may show symptoms like diarrhea or a runny nose

This doesn't mean they're beyond saving, though. With extra care in those early weeks of their lives, these kittens truly can end up growing and living long, happy lives, even if they are a bit on the smaller side as adults.

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I actually love baking, and 99 percent of the time I'm making cakes or cookies, I'm simultaneously chasing a dog or cat out of my kitchen. If my giant Maine Coon Meatball had his way, he would absolutely shove his face into everything I'm making, which is exactly why this Golden Retriever video made me laugh so hard.

Some pets simply cannot accept that food preparation does not involve them. They hear a mixer turn on, and suddenly they're convinced they've been hired as sous chefs.

#cute #funny

The hilarious clip was shared by @moosie1978 and shows a dog mom pouring cake batter into a pan when her Golden Retriever suddenly appears with a mission.

Related: Adorable Cattle Dogs Become Kitchen Supervisors During Homemade Dog Meatballs

And that mission is apparently:

Become one with the batter.

Without hesitation, the sweet dog runs over and sticks his entire face into the cake mixture while Mom is still pouring.

Honestly, the confidence is impressive.

There wasn't even a moment of hesitation.

No thoughts.

No regrets.

Just batter.

As someone who has had to rescue countless sticks of butter from curious pets, I understand the struggle.

• "Something about this gives me the feeling that you're gonna still make this cake lol."
• "Some of y'all have never had a kid shove their entire arm into the mixing bowl and it shows. The dog had one intrusive thought and lost. We've all been there."
• "This is why I won't eat at potluck lunches."
• "I am going to think of this every time I go to a bake sale."
• "And he regrets nothing."

Honestly, that last comment says it all.

Because if Golden Retrievers have one talent besides being adorable, it's committing fully to bad decisions.

And somehow making us love them even more for it.

Dont let this fool you, she *will* steal unsupervised food. 😅 #rhodesianridgeback #dogtraining

If your own furry sous chef likes to supervise dinner, there are several ways to keep everyone safe:

• Use baby gates or dog gates to block off the kitchen.
• Offer puzzle feeders or snuffle mats to provide a distraction.
• Schedule outside playtime in the yard before cooking.
• Ask another family member to take the dog for a walk.
• Give your pup a special chew or treat in another room.
• Teach a "place" command so they can relax nearby without getting underfoot.

Because while dogs think every recipe needs their approval, some ingredients can be dangerous for pets.

And nobody wants to explain to the veterinarian that their Golden Retriever attempted to become part of a Bundt cake.

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Unfortunately for me, I don’t think I’ve ever been as peaceful as Ray looks in this video. I’ve tried meditation. I’ve tried sitting outside with coffee. I’ve tried telling myself to slow down and enjoy the little things. Then a blind orange-and-white cat steps into a patch of sunshine, and suddenly he understands the whole assignment better than most of us ever will.

In the video, Ray is simply feeling the sun on his face. That’s it. No big trick. No dramatic setup. No chaos. Just a sweet, blind cat pausing long enough to soak in the warmth.

The caption on the video invites folks to watch Ray enjoying the sunshine, and his human’s post caption calls him their own little ray of light, which is such a perfect way to describe him. His name already feels made for this moment. Ray, standing in the sun, reminds everyone that happiness doesn’t always have to be loud.

There's something deeply moving to me about watching an animal enjoy something so simple. Ray can't see the golden light hitting him, but he can still feel it. He can still lift his face toward it. He can still know, in his own way, that something warm and good is happening.

That's the part that gets me.

One person in the comments shared that watching Ray made them feel like maybe life isn’t so bad after all. Like maybe things can get easier one day. Like maybe we can come back to small joys, even if we’re standing in them alone for a little while. It’s a heavy thing to admit in a comments section, but Ray’s quiet little sunbath somehow makes room for it.

Some videos make you laugh, and then some videos catch you off guard because they arrive on the exact day your heart needed something soft. Ray isn’t trying to inspire anyone. He’s just being a cat in the sun. That’s why it works. It doesn’t feel forced. It feels true.

Blind cats can still have rich, beautiful lives. They learn their spaces, follow familiar sounds, trust scents, and find comfort in routines. Ray’s sunshine moment is a sweet reminder that joy doesn’t always look the way we expect it to. Sometimes it’s a warm spot on the floor. Sometimes it’s a quiet pause. Sometimes it’s one little kitty showing you that the world still has gentle things in it.

Ray may not see the sunshine, but he clearly knows when he’s found it.

If you live with a blind cat, minor comforts can make a big difference. Keep furniture, food, water, and litter boxes in familiar places when you can. Talk to them before touching them, avoid startling noises, and give them cozy spots where they can relax without having to guess what’s around them.

Pet Assure shares that blind cats can still enjoy a good quality of life, especially when their surroundings feel predictable and safe. A warm, sunny spot, a familiar blanket, and a patient human can all help them feel steady in their world.

Ray’s little sunshine break is proof that peace doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it just needs a quiet place to land.

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Related: This Clever Cat Invented a Special 'Secret Language' Just to Communicate With His Blind Sister

Caring for a senior dog is one of the most important things you can do as a pet parent. They may be slowing down a little, but they can still be so much fun — and hitting this milestone doesn't mean that there aren't still plenty of memories to be made together.

The time goes by way too fast, though, and Winnie the Golden Retriever's parents can prove it with this video that shows her transformation from puppy to senior dog in the blink of an eye.

Forever my baby ❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹 #goldenretriever #seniordog #dogbirthday #doglovers #sweetdog

One minute, Winnie is celebrating her eighth birthday as her parents sing to her (and she gets ready to devour a beautiful pink cake) and the next, the video flashes back to when she was a tiny puppy being held by her mom.

That adorable face. Those fluffy ears! She might be all grown up now, but she is so loved.

Like Winnie's parents point out in the video, it really is such a privilege to watch our dogs grow older. It's hard to see them slow down a bit, but boy, is it worth all the love they give us.

Related: Golden Retriever's Hide and Seek Skills Would Put Kids to Shame

Your Golden Retriever (or other breed) may hit the senior dog age a little earlier than you expected, medically speaking, even if they still zoom around the yard with the best of them.

According to Chewy, dogs of different breeds will be considered seniors at different times. Technically speaking, a dog is a senior when they've reached the final 25% of their expected life span, which will vary depending on breed and size.

Since Goldens are classified as a large breed, they usually live between 10-12 years, so around the time they're 7 or 8 years old, they're considered senior dogs like Winnie.

The first sign that your pup is getting older that you might spot is parts of their coat starting to turn gray (especially around their muzzle), but don't worry, that part is just cosmetic.

Be sure to keep up with your senior dog's regular vet visits, and give them extra love. A fun birthday party to celebrate another year with them isn't going to hurt, either!

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My senior Dachshund has a very calm and even temperament, except when it comes to food. If dinner is just a mere one minute late, she vents her anger over my tardiness by whining, pacing, and giving me plenty of looks of disdain.

Franklin the Chihuahua takes things a step (or several steps) further when he's upset and goes into full-on meltdown mode over what rubs him the wrong way.

Because I stayed in the kitchen too long. Mind you, my daughter is 3 inches from him 🤦🏻‍♀️ #screamingchihuahua #clingydog #chihuahua #dogmom #dogsoftiktok

In the TikTok from @stacychermol, Franklin stood on the living room furniture and let his feelings fly. He tilted his head back and howled, barked, whined, and basically screamed to show his extreme dismay over something that most people would consider a non-issue.

"Your front row seat to Franklin's psychotic break," the onscreen text read, with the caption explaining, "Because I stayed in the kitchen too long. Mind you, my daughter is 3 inches from him."

Apparently, Franklin takes umbrage at his mother's absence even if it's momentary. The vocal Chi practically exhausted himself with his antics, spinning in circles as he loudly verbalized his displeasure. It's like he didn't know what to do with all that pent-up energy and had to verbalize every single emotion.

When his mom finally came into the room, Franklin was able to collect himself and calm down. Followers got a kick out of the fur baby's frenetic behavior and were even a little impressed with his flair for drama.

"He puts his whole back into it, don’t he?" one noted.

"I need to vent like Franklin," another remarked.

"Franklin is me about three times a day because I have no chill," a follower shared.

"I love the little rage twirls during his scream sessions," someone commented.

Chihuahuas definitely have a penchant for expressing themselves. These little drama kings and queens can make a racket due to various reasons, including:

Related: 'Unique'-Looking Chihuahua Mix Has the Internet Guessing His Heritage

• Seeking attention
• Fear and anxiety
• Territorial instincts
• Boredom or lack of mental stimulation
• Medical issues or physical discomfort

Some Chihuahuas are just extra vocal as part of their peppy personality, or, like Franklin, they have a lot to say and want everyone to know what's on their mind.

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I already know I would get absolutely nothing accomplished if this puppy lived at my house. I would spend all day cuddling him, kissing his tiny face and telling him how handsome he is while completely ignoring my dishes, my laundry, all of my responsibilities.

Some puppies look like tiny teddy bears. Others look like little potatoes with legs. But this ridiculously cute Chihuahua mix somehow resembles a cross between a hyena, a porcupine and a woodland fairy creature, which is exactly why the internet has fallen completely in love with him.

Little Monkey attacks bunny! The cutest little chihuahua/ terrier/ hedgehog rescue mutt you ever met.

The adorable clip was shared by @little.monkey.may and shows the scruffy little puppy marching toward his mouse toy like he's on an important mission.

Once he reaches his prey, he proudly starts chewing on it with all the confidence of a much larger animal.

Related: Chihuahua’s One ‘Miracle Puppy’ Means the World to Her

Which is funny because he genuinely looks like a miniature hyena.

Or maybe a hyena porcupine.

Honestly, science may never know.

• "Teacup hyena?"

• "Ahhh! The elusive Chihuacupine."

• "A Chihuahua porcupine! So rare…"

• "OMG he's adorable, he actually looks like a little hyena lol."

• "Adorable but are we 1000% sure that's a dog?"

• "Porcupine/Hedgehog/Hyena/Wolverine!"

Personally, I think "Chihuacupine" deserves to be officially recognized by the scientific community.

Because look at this little guy.

He has approximately seven hairs standing straight up and enough confidence to conquer the world.

And I'm not sure I have seen a little puppy wuppy this adorable in AGES. Gimmie!

Norman was not a fan lol Javadi is available for adoption at @Animal Haven !! #nyc #adoptdontshop #rescuedog #city #summer #heatwave #adoptable #puppy #fosterdog #pitbull #mixedbreed #foster

Summer can be an ideal time to welcome a new dog into the family.

Children are often home from school and can help with walks, socialization and training. The warmer weather also makes potty training and outdoor exercise much easier than during cold winter months.

Adopting during the summer gives dogs several months to settle into their routines before the busy holiday season arrives. New pets have time to learn house rules, build trust and become comfortable in their new homes.

Plus, there are few better ways to spend a summer evening than sitting outside with your new best friend.

Even if that best friend looks suspiciously like a tiny hyena.

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Cats come in more colors than I ever thought possible. When I was a child, we had a white cat and a black one, but I'd seen orange cats on the street. I assumed that was it, and that there were no other colors of cats out there.

I was corrected eventually, and now, I know more than I ever thought I would about cat colors. Some of them are just so beautiful, like this Russian Blue cat with her stunning emerald eyes:

Very quick update to show proof of Telly wellness and say that I think I can officially breathe a complete sigh of relief. Today we are in a much better spot than a week ago when I was genuinely terrified for my girl. What started as a simple upset tummy spiraled into something that had us very concerned, especially for a cat who already has questionable tummy function, but I am happy to report that although she sure didn't make it easy on us, we are finally to a point we can say we are moving past this. We appreciate everyone's concern and support ❤️ #catsoftiktok #cattok #greycat #cathealth

Telly the Russian Blue is one of my favorite cats to talk about because she's super cool. There are a few things about Telly that make her stand out:

• She has huge, green eyes.
• She has a beautiful coat.
• She has many extra toes.
• Though she's full-grown, she's still the size of a kitten.

Telly's mom bottle-fed her when she was a kitten. They weren't sure if she was going to make it, but she did, and now she's thriving! These days, she can be a bit of a brat sometimes, but that's what her mom loves about her!

Related: Maine Coon Cat Gives Birth to a Litter of Tiny Storm Clouds

Telly has a pretty standard Russian Blue coat, but she also has the pinkest, most adorable toe beans in the world. There are so many of them, too:

Throwback to fresh pink beans ❤️ #catsoftiktok #polydactylcat #cattok #greycat

For the record, cats are supposed to have 5 paw pads on their front paws and 4 on their back paws, for 18 total. Telly, however, has 12 on her back paws alone! She's so cool!

Telly is a pretty classic Russian Blue cat: her coat is a solid, saturated grey/blue color, and she has emerald eyes, which are standard for this breed. She's small, but she's beautiful!

Sunrise@dawn Photography / Getty Images

Russian Blue cats aren't rare, but they can be hard to come by sometimes, and purebred Russian Blues can be expensive. You can often find mixes, if not purebreds, in shelters! You just have to know where to look. These cats are:

• Playful.
• Talkative.
• Independent.
• Eager to please.

Telly checks all of those boxes and more. She's a total princess, and that's exactly the life she deserves!

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