Parade Pets

Subscribe to Parade Pets feed Parade Pets
Parade Pets is your go-to for expert insights on cat and dog breeds, health, heartwarming videos, pet names, and trending animal news. Enhance your pet parenting journey with us.
Updated: 44 min ago

Deaf Senior Puggle Impressively Stands Her Ground To Thwart Coyote Attack

Fri, 05/03/2024 - 1:15pm

No matter where you live in the United States, it’s crucial to maintain a high level of vigilance when your dogs are outside. This home security footage serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers our pets can face, even in seemingly safe environments.

Fortunately, this situation, which could have ended in tragedy, turned out much better than anyone could have expected. While this dog may have been small and of an advanced age, she possessed enough bravery to intimidate this predator and send it fleeing.

Watch this heart-wrenching footage shared in a video on April 25:

@jessi_lyn05

Bailey is one tough girl! 💚 Please keep an eye on your furry friends! #dogsofttiktok #coyote #coyoteattacks #whosafraidoflittleoldme #taylorswift #puggle #pugglesoftiktok #survivedcoyoteattack #badassmoment

♬ whos afraid of little old me - overlays 💐

This is a situation that pet parents never want to face. Jessica (@jessi_lyn05) explains that her mom’s Puggle is not only 14 years old but also deaf. That’s why she was initially unaware of the intruder when this coyote effortlessly jumped the solid 6-foot fence. However, once confronted, she fought back. Although she may have been smaller, she put up enough of a fight to send this wild animal packing. Oh goodness! That’s a shining example of never giving up and never backing down. In the comments section, Jessica revealed that this tiny Puggle walked away with only a slight nip, thankfully.

Related: Chihuahua’s ‘Coyote Proof’ Protection Vest Is Effective and Hilarious

Ways to Keep Animals Safe Outside
  1. Never leave pets unattended outdoors, especially at dawn or dusk. Even a large fence isn’t enough to keep wild animals out.

  2. Keep water and food bowls inside. This can prevent the scent from attracting unwanted animals.

  3. Keep pets on a leash when it’s dark outside. This is especially important if you have a large yard where predators may hide.

  4. Keep rabies vaccination up-to-date. Should your cherished pet have an unfortunate run-in with a wild animal, an up-to-date rabies vaccine can help them fight this potentially life-threatening disease.

Pet parents shared similar stories. Viewer @MuffinDelRey responded, “My dog Gerard was a chihuahua who was 16 years old, blind, and deaf, and survived a mountain lion attack.” That’s incredible! Viewer @renfree remarked, “I live in a city in Indiana across from a park. I had my border collie out, and he took off chasing a coyote all the way through the park.” That’s a great reason to keep our pups on leash at night. Viewer @Lissmelendez cautioned, “Sometimes coyotes come back with more. Please be careful. Glad she is ok.” That’s a good point; they will return once they know where to find a meal.

Thankfully, this good girl and her fierce spirit could fend off this predator. As summer begins, it’s an excellent reminder for all pet parents to stay vigilant with their beloved four-legged children.

Senior Pug Gets 'Stuck' on 'Comfy Mountain' and He's Too Precious

Fri, 05/03/2024 - 1:00pm

Senior pugs deserve all the comfort in the world. All senior dogs do, but to live into your senior years as a pug is particularly tough: their short snouts really complicate their breathing. If you had to spend your whole life basically breathing through a bendy straw, you'd want to nap, too.

On Thursday, May 2nd, one senior pug named Milton had to work for his spot. Upon reaching the peak of "Comfy Mountain," he needed to rest again, and luckily, he had no choice. He got stuck:

@jongraz

he’s still there he’s just sleeping now

♬ original sound - Jonathan

To say that I adore @jongraz and all of his pugs is the understatement of the century. I've followed him since he first joined, and his foster pups have never failed to make me smile!

Related: Senior Pug’s Grumpy Response To ‘Hearing Children’s Joy’ Is Perfectly Crotchety

This man's name is Milton, and he's Jonathan's fifth foster pug since the loss of his first, Noodle, who passed in December of 2022. Though he's said he has a special place in his heart, he's taken in everything from puppies to seniors! Milton is his first "foster fail," and he was adopted sometime last month - though Jonathan has stated in other videos that he's still going to foster once Milton settles in officially. 

Comfy Mountain is the nest of blankets and pillows that Jonathan has on the back of his couch. All of his pugs have made it to Comfy Mountain: it's the best place to be! Though, sometimes, the older ones get stuck up there, which is fine, because it just means they're due for a mandatory nap!

Dogs Love to 'Nest' in Pillows and Blankets

Maybe your dogs aren't allowed on the furniture, or maybe you just don't have a convenient couch place for them to build a permanent nest. Even if that's the case, you should still try your best to give them a place to nest, even if it's on the floor. 

Dog beds are perfect for senior dogs like Noodle and Milton. A dog bed doesn't require a ton of climbing (though they were both spry enough to conquer Comfy Mountain). If you don't want to lose any of your favorite blankets or pillows to their nest, you can just buy cheap ones that can be easily thrown in the washer or replaced if they get dirty. 

As a general rule, always remember that dogs love to be warm, and they love to feel protected. Lying out in the open without anything to cover them is not ideal. You can even get dog beds with built in "nesting" materials - just make sure they're machine washable. With senior dogs, you never know what will happen!

Orange Cats 'Sniff' Tiny Schnauzer Puppy in Total Confusion During First Meeting

Fri, 05/03/2024 - 12:30pm

A group of orange cats are very curious about their new sibling, a tiny Schnauzer puppy, and they are all very confused.

On April 24, 2024, a group of four orange cats meet their new sibling, a puppy Schnauzer, and their first meeting is hilarious. Take a look!

@nanol.and.friends

She is so "why are they sniffing me?" #cutecatsoftiktok❤️ #nanolandfriends #cutecat #catmeme #funnycat #somet #shnauzer #dogsoftiktok #somettheshnauzer

♬ Eewh - Internet Cultura

In a quick 10-second video, we meet four adorable orange cats who are meeting their brand-new sibling.

Related: Orange You Glad We Came up With 300 Cat Names for Orange Kitties?

TikTok user nanol.and.friends shared the video, introducing her new puppy.

"My cat first meeting with their new sibling, Somet" the text on the video reads.

In the video, the little Schnauzer is sitting in a basket, which really shows how tiny this little one is. Surrounding his basket are four kittens who are very interested in the Schnauzer puppy.

One of the cats, the brave one, really gets close to the puppy who knows they're there but prefers to ignore.

The cat gets really close to the puppy and smells him while the other three continue to smell from a distance.

"She is so 'why are they sniffing me?'" the video's caption jokes.

The video went viral with 7.6 million views and more than 7,500 comments.

"Aww that sad look up on his face," one person wrote.

"You've got no business having this many orange cats," someone else added.

"Why are they judging him like that," someone else asked.

Another added, "The cat to the left is trying to sniff every particle close to that dog."

How to Introduce Your New Puppy to Your Cats

According to the Blue Cross, introducing your dog to your cats requires some patience and time.

The best thing to do is to keep your puppy "as calm as possible." Their first meeting should be behind a door. 

The organization suggests, "Try and stay as relaxed as you can and pick an area where your cat can easily run to its safe space if it’s worried."

The interactions should be kept short. "Do them several times, and don't rush," Blue Cross suggests.

"Once they’re comfortable in one another’s company, then you can allow them to interact more freely with a looser lead and careful supervision," they add. 

The experts say that one of the best ways to help your pets get used to each other in a calm way is by allowing them to smell each other's scents. 

"Scent swapping is a great way to get both pets used to each other’s smell, even before they meet," they explain. "Take an item of clothing that smells of your cat to your puppy’s breeder or rescue center so they can get used to their smell and ask for one in return to take home to your cat."

We're sure these guys will all become quick friends soon. Just needs a little patience and a lot of love and understanding. 

Pugs Living Their Best Life Together at Sanctuary Is a Sight for Sore Eyes

Fri, 05/03/2024 - 12:15pm

Senior dogs can end up living in animal sanctuaries for many reasons. Sometimes, their parents move, and no one will adopt them. Other times, their parents pass away, and they have no family to take them in. But regardless of the reason they were brought there, they find solace and companionship in each other, creating bonds that are truly heartwarming.

That’s certainly the case at this rescue. The sight of these beautiful Pug babies living together in harmony might inspire you to start your own when you retire.

See them in this April 21 video living their very best life.

@bubblebeccapugs

☀️LIVING THEIR BEST LIFE☀️ #pugs#bubblebeccapugs #sunpugs #summer #bubblebeccapugrescue

♬ Cool Kids (our sped up version) - Echosmith

This animal sanctuary is like having a little piece of heaven here on earth. These little Pugs, snuggled together and sleeping, couldn’t be any cuter. Whether they’re on their beds outside or piled high on a chair, they always seem to enjoy being close to each other. If this isn’t love, I don’t know what is.

Related: Rescue Dogs on Morning Walk at Animal Sanctuary Is a Glimpse of Heaven

An Extraordinary Pug Rescue and Sanctuary

Bubblebecca Pugs (@bubblebeccapugs) is a sanctuary and rescue in Cheshire, UK. Here, dozens of Pugs, at different stages of life and some with complicated medical conditions, live together in harmony. According to their website, the sanctuary nurses many of these beautiful dogs back to health with love and the very best veterinary care and eventually places them in caring homes of their own. However, some have been here for years and are permanent members of the pack.

Many times, pet parents who were at the end of their lives placed their cherished pets here with the peace of mind that they would be loved and taken care of for the rest of their days. The founder explains that after taking in her first few rescues; she did not know it would eventually turn into what it is today. Fortunately for these dogs, it did, and they have a safe place to go and plenty of love and friendship surrounding them. Besides having each other, they also have fans from around the world who find joy and comfort in seeing their favorite dogs.

This beautiful rescue won the hearts of animal lovers. Viewer @BobsMom remarked, “My household when I win the lottery.” Mine too! Viewer @queenB responded, “This is what heaven looks like.” Let’s hope! Viewer @MarynaVisser-Franci inquired, “How can you handle all of them...my heart can hardly handle my one.” That’s a good question. Fortunately, she can and she is able to give so many the opportunity to live such a good life.

Although this mom may not have set out to start the sanctuary, it’s a purpose that found her. And it’s a lovely example of how following your heart can provide you with a life better than you could have imagined.

Cincinnati Zoo Hippo 'Fiona' Gets Caught Stealing a Snack Like a True Stealthy Queen

Fri, 05/03/2024 - 12:00pm

As Cincinnati Zoo's shiniest star, Fiona the hippo works up quite the appetite everyday. Don't worry, she gets fed plenty - Fiona and her entire bloat eat regular meals at scheduled times and occasionally get some extra treats here and there. 

Thursday, May 2nd, must've been a very hard day for Fiona, and her regular eating schedule wasn't cutting it. Lucky for her, her keepers' backs were turned and there were leaves at the ready... or so she thought. They caught the whole thing on camera:

@cincinnatizoo

Anything for an extra snack! Fiona being naughty! 🤭 #hungry #hippo #animals #cincinnatizoo #lunch

♬ original sound - Cincinnati Zoo

Even though she's totally not supposed to be doing that, the Cincinnati Zoo can't be too mad - she's the queen, after all!

Related: Cincinnati Zoo’s Fiona the Hippo Can't Contain Her Joy Over Snack Time

If there are two things Fiona the hippo is known for, they're being adorable and being hungry. When she was born back in 2017, Fiona made history by being one of the smallest hippos ever to be born on record: she was six weeks early and weighed a whopping 29 pounds. Her incredible growth journey is exactly what drew everybody in! 

Fiona came along about 8 months after one of the biggest controversies in the zoo's history. In May of 2016, a gorilla named Harambe was fatally shot after a child fell into his enclosure and staff were concerned that the gorilla was going to harm him. The spectacle made international news and sparked thousands of insensitive memes. I remember this entire ordeal vividly, and I can confidently say that it all only really calmed down when Fiona was born. 

Since then, she's stayed in the spotlight and even became a big sister! She's the muse for dozens of pieces of merch, and what's more, she's had several children's books written about her. How sweet is that?!

Plants in Enclosures are Always Safe to Eat

Fiona may not be encouraged to eat those leaves, but they're not toxic to her. Zoos take great care in choosing what to plant in their residents' enclosure, and they take into account that they're unpredictable animals. Maybe Fiona has never reached for those leaves before, but they have to assume she might, or that they might fall into the water where she can get them.

Most zoos will even go so far as to plant things that they want the animals to eat, since it's an excellent way to keep them occupied. For example, at the San Diego Zoo, there are trees planted throughout for their climbing animals. Some even have fruits!

At the end of the day, ingesting some leaves that are technically decorative is much better for Fiona than ingesting the alternative, which would be plastic leaves and plants. She's a hungry girl! Let her be!

Golden Retriever Puppy 'Nose Boops' Home Camera and It's Impossible to Resist

Fri, 05/03/2024 - 11:15am

Leaving dog cameras around the house is pretty common for people who are going to be gone during the day and want to be able to check in on their pups even if they aren't home. This can be especially helpful during the puppy years when they're still learning the ropes of being a family dog (and you're hoping that they don't suddenly start chewing on the walls). Some even have functions that will allow you to throw a treat to your dog or speak to them through the camera. And while some dogs will never even notice the cameras exist, others get very curious about them! 

That includes the mischievous little guy in this video who not only discovered the security camera in his house, but also attempted to interact with it in his own way. He's too cute! 

@bestboy_murph

It’s the nose boop for me though 🤣 #goldenretriever #goldenretrieverlife #goldenretrieverpuppy #funnyvideos #funnyanimals #cutepuppy #cuteanimals #caughtoncamera #dogsoftiktok #puppytiktok

♬ nintendo wii (mii channel) song - julie on the internet

On Wednesday, May 1, @bestboy_murph shared this video of their Golden Retriever puppy named Murphy doing a little investigating in a moment when he thought he wasn't being watched. 

"When you leave your 14 week old Golden Retriever unattended for one minute..." says the video. 

Murphy was left alone in the living room when he discovered the camera and immediately got as close to it as he could to check it out, even booping it with his nose! That means we got some of the most adorable close ups ever as he sniffed it, trying to figure out what it was... and managed to knock it over in the process.

It would be impossible to be mad at him, though — he's way too cute, and he's just baby trying to figure out how the world around him works, including this weird gadget that he found inside his house.

More About Murphy 

Murphy's humans have shared his entire journey from the time they adopted him on TikTok, and the last couple of months have been filled with so many adorable moments it's hard to know where to start! 

It looks like they brought Murphy home in March, and right from the beginning, he was full of energy (as all puppies are). Since then, he's grown a lot, but of course that puppy spirit and energy is still there. They adopted him after they lost their older Golden, whose name was Bodie, and something tells me he would be glad they're giving their love to this new little one.

Murphy seems to be having a pretty good life so far with his humans... and they're clearly always keeping an eye on him.

I can't wait to see what Murph gets into next! 

150-Year-Old Tortoise Enjoying Head Scratches Has the Perfect Chill Vibe

Fri, 05/03/2024 - 11:00am

If there's one animal in the world that deserves our respect, it's the tortoise. They've been through a lot, living over a century and traveling thousands of miles in the meantime. Despite what everyone says about tortoises being slow, they can actually be pretty fast when they need to, and when they don't they just want to take in the world.

Their lives are relatively laid back, which is exactly what they deserve. If you had to live for over a hundred years, you probably wouldn't want to be running and hiding the whole time, either. On Thursday, May 2nd, one zoo-based tortoise spent the day getting head scratches, and it was just the sweetest thing:

@sanantoniozoo

Over 150 years later, Edie still loves her head scratches! 🐢💆 #animals #cuteanimals #tortoise #cute #fyp

♬ original sound - San Antonio Zoo

You can find tortoises at just about any zoo, but Edie at the San Antonio Zoo has my heart. What an adorable name for a tortoise!

Related: Tortoise Throwing a Tantrum Over His Basketball Is Just Like a Real Sportsman

Edie has lived at the San Antonio Zoo since 1973, meaning that she's spent 51 years there. At 150 years old, that's only a third of her life! Since she landed in San Antonio, she's enjoyed thousands of pounds of fresh vegetables, met what must be millions of adoring fans, and received so many head scratches it's impossible to count them all. 

Being 150 would mean Edie was born in 1874. That means she's lived through:

  1. Both World Wars
  2. 29 out of 46 US presidents 
  3. 7 British monarchs
  4. The invention of color TV 
  5. The Great Depression

All of that means absolutely nothing to Edie herself, but it's fascinating: I would love to know how her care has evolved over her long life. Though she was born about 30 years after the Industrial Revolution, she was born before the big boom in deforestation: what did her natural habitat look like when she was a baby?

Aldabra Tortoises Are Very Docile 

Tortoises aren't the most common pets in the world, but they're not exactly rare, either. Aldabra tortoises are known to be very sweet and social: they're easy to "tame." They love sweet treats like flowers and fruits, and if you spend a little time getting to know them, they really come out of their shell (no pun intended). 

Since they live for anywhere from 100-150 years on average, though, they are a pet you need to consider when you're making up your will. You'll need to have somewhere to leave them, whether that's with another family member or with a sanctuary/zoo. If you'd like to leave the animal to the professionals, you can work that out with a meeting. Whatever you do, do not release a captive tortoise into the wild. How will they get their head scratches?!

I was in the shower at 7:30 when Penelope started screaming bloody murder. There was a spider in her room. So now we’re watching holy crap

Fri, 05/03/2024 - 10:15am

Just as babies and kids love their grandparents, there are plenty of dogs out there who love their grandparents just as much — and the feeling is almost always mutual. It's so sweet to see the way that these pups bond not just with the humans in their home, but the other humans in their lives. The unconditional love that dogs can offer is unlike anything else, and that means that once you have that bond in your life, it can be so sweet... whether it's the dog you've adopted or one who has been adopted by a loved one. 

The perfect example of the love between a dog and their grandparents is this sweet TikTok video. I think we could all use a hug like this one!

@scarlett.and.moxie

#grandma #grandmasdog #funnydogs #schnauzermini #schnauzer #crazydogsoftiktok #sassydogs #doggo #minischnauzer

♬ original sound - estwne

In this video shared by @scarlett.and.moxie on Thursday, May 2, we see this adorable Mini Schnauzer (whose name is Moxie) all snuggled up with her grandma, and it doesn't look like she's planning to go anywhere anytime soon! 

She's resting her head on her grandma's chest while getting all the pats (which I'm sure she totally deserves). This sweet girl thanks her for all the love by giving her kisses on her face. Aww!

Of course, commenters were gushing over their sweet relationship, with one writing, "Nothing better than a Schnauzer hug!" After seeing this video, I don't doubt that's true. It looks like both Moxie and grandma are totally loving it.

Do Mini Schnauzers Make Good Pets? 

Just in case this sweet moment wasn't enough to convince you to adopt a Mini Schnauzer of your own, the facts don't lie: they make excellent companions. 

As the American Kennel Club (AKC) points out, these dogs are perfect for those who live in an apartment or those who live in a larger residence, since they're pretty small and adaptable creatures. Their personalities are pretty sweet, too; they're friendly and can be trained, and naturally tend to get along with other animals and kids.

The AKC also mentions that these dogs don't really shed, so if you want a dog without having to use a lint roller every 10 minutes, this might just be the perfect breed for you.

They're also relatively low maintenance pups, though you will likely have to make regular grooming appointments for them to keep their coats in shape. That's the only downside to the lack of shedding! 

You'll also want to make sure your Mini Schnauzer has the opportunity to exercise every day, whether that means playing in the backyard or the park or going for a nice long walk. 

And in exchange, you'll get cuddles like the ones Moxie is handing out? Sign me up! 

Dog Eye Wipes Made by Bausch + Lomb Recalled for Possible Harmful Bacteria

Fri, 05/03/2024 - 10:00am

If you've got a dog with face flaps, you're no stranger to wipes. You have to clean those things regularly, otherwise they'll get really gross. It's bad for their health to just let all of the bacteria into those flaps without doing anything about it!

As it turns out, though, some of the wipes we might be using to clean our babies can be harmful, too. On May 2nd, Bausch + Lomb announced an official recall on their Project Watson Eyelid wipes, specifically lots A09050 and A10055

Bausch + Lomb

Make sure you check the container thoroughly to ensure that you actually have a product from one of the recalled lots - if you don't, you're ineligible for a refund. You'll be able to find that on the bottom of the jar. If your lot is not A09050 or A10055, you're perfectly safe to continue using the product. Should you decide to toss it out of an abundance of caution, you assume responsibility for that and won't be refunded. The recall affects just over 30,000 containers.

The problem with the product lies in the packaging: when the jars are opened and exposed to the air, there's a chance for fungi and bacteria to grow inside. Though this would potentially be harmful for our furry friends, the biggest concern is humans. If you're immunocompromised and touch the contaminated wipes, you're at risk. Allegedly, "healthy" people aren't in any danger, but you never really know. 

How to Request Your Refund for Recalled Wipes

Before you throw out your container, make sure you take a picture of the container. The picture needs to be taken from the front with your name and the date written on it. If you have more than one container of the contaminated wipes, write your name and the date on all of them and include them all in the same photo. 

However many products are in your photo is the number you'll select in the dropdown menu question, "how many Project Watson eyelid wipes containers are you requesting a refund for?" If the two do not match up, your refund request may denied or delayed.

Once your refund request is approved, you'll receive a check directly from Bausch + Lomb in the mail for however much they owe you. If you do not send in a picture with your request, you will not receive a refund. 

Requests for refunds need to be sent directly to Bausch + Lomb through this webpage. Once you've taken your pictures, you can discard the wipes immediately. Instead, try using just a microfiber cloth and a little bit of warm water to get out all of the crust, and then a dry cloth to dry up the creases!

Labrador Patiently Waiting for Dad to Pick Them Up From Day Care Brings All the Feels

Fri, 05/03/2024 - 9:00am

Doggy daycare is a great way to make sure your dog gets the socialization it needs without having to devote all the time to do it yourself. Just because you work doesn't mean you shouldn't be able to have a pup of your own!

Picking them up from said doggy daycare is kind of a wonderful experience, too. They miss you all day, even if they're having the time of their lives, and they'll be happy to see you. On Thursday, May 2nd, one dog dad was just a little late picking up his pup, and he went into the sweetest, saddest spiral:

@twiggyandco

♬ Originalton - randomshit

That poor guy. I hope he got lots of treats to make up for it! The video, posted by @twiggyandco, definitely needs a part 2. When did dad show up?!

Related: Yellow Labrador Finds Mud Puddle and Ends Up Looking Like the Solar Eclipse

This dog goes to daycare everyday, presumably because dad works, and he most likely has a lot of fun there. The Yellow Lab's name is actually not Twiggy - Twiggy is an adorable Chihuahua. Though he looks super upset in this clip, the video's caption says that he was the last dog left.

Mr. Lab's reaction is totally justified: every day when the other parents come to pick up their babies, he leaves with them. It's just as much a part of the routine as getting there. So when dad didn't show up, he started to panic; dogs do not understand the concept of "running late." He may have started to feel forgotten, poor boy!

Should I Send My Dog to Daycare?

Just like sending your child to daycare, it's a big decision. There's no shame in needing a third party to help you care for your dogs (or your kids), and it's genuinely an amazing tool to help them learn independence. And, depending on where you live, it might give your pup access to socialization that they wouldn't get otherwise. 

If your dog is easygoing and you think they'd do well in daycare, it's definitely worth at least trying out. However, there are some dogs that should probably stay at home instead:

  1. Reactive dogs
  2. Dogs with terrible social or separation anxiety
  3. Unvaccinated dogs 
  4. "Intact" dogs (dogs that aren't spayed or neutered)
  5. Dogs that have tried daycare but really don't seem to like it

Most of this can be remedied by a vet, either through medical procedures or therapy. Especially when it comes to separation anxiety, you should be trying your best to get your dog more comfortable around others. Otherwise, the problem will only get worse. This big guy is fine, other than being mildly forgotten...

Corgi Parents' Hack for Getting Pup's Teeth Brushed Is Positively Brilliant

Fri, 05/03/2024 - 7:45am

There are some tasks that, as a human, I'm always going to hate, like cleaning the oven or folding all of the clean laundry in the 700 baskets that surround my bed, and yet, these things still have to get done. And for dogs, this is also true — not about the oven, but about their own little tasks that we make them live through. Going to the vet for a check up, taking a bath, getting their nails trimmed... those little things that most dogs cannot stand, but are absolutely necessary to keep them healthy and thriving. 

For many dogs, brushing their teeth is also on the list, but unfortunately, that's necessary, too. However, the hack in this video might just be a game changer if your dog truly detests teeth brushing time.

Click here to watch the video.

In this TikTok video shared by @mapleandmortycorgi on Wednesday, May 1, we can see Maple the Corgi not only willing to let her humans brush her teeth, but she's impatient for them to get started... all because she's dying for the cookie she gets right before it happens. 

This girl is so ready to get it done that she's growling at her humans to hurry up, and then, when it's her turn to have her teeth brushed after she gobbled up her cookie, she sits so still and so calmly. This little lady is a total pro!

"Maple will do anything for that cream filled vanilla cookie... even if it means she has to endure getting her teeth brushed afterward," her parents wrote in the caption.

Maple is such a good girl — she obviously deserves at least five more cookies for a job well done! 

How to Make Brushing Dogs' Teeth Easier

If you're new to pet parenthood, it's important to know that dental chews and similar products don't always get the job done, so actually brushing your dog's teeth is important to keeping their dental health in shape. Brushing three times a week is the minimum you should be brushing your dog's teeth — many vets actually recommend twice a day, just like humans.

You can use a finger toothbrush or a regular dog toothbrush with soft bristles, and put some dog toothpaste on it (not human toothpaste!) and brush in circular motions. You might want to start slow, letting your dog just taste the toothpaste the first few sessions before moving on to actual brushing, and only brush the front of the teeth at first before graduating to the back as well a few days later. 

And if all else fails, just take Maple's advice: The proper treat waiting at the end really does make all the difference.

'Spoiled' Chihuahua Politely Begging for a Taco Is Simply Irresistible

Fri, 05/03/2024 - 7:00am

When it comes to food, every dog I've ever met is very serious about it. Whether it's their usual meal time and they're waiting for the dog-designated food to land in their bowl, or they're begging for table scraps, dogs typically do not mess around. If I'm even five minutes late feeding my dog her dinner, she's going to make it everyone's problem... and do not even get me started on the way she posts up under my toddler's chair, ready to grab whatever she drops on the ground while she's eating a meal (which is a lot). 

Knowing all of this, I'm not surprised at all that the tiny dog in this TikTok video is as demanding as she is — there's Mexican food involved, and she is absolutely going to be a part of it!

@awesomeendswithme3

My family puts the FUN in dysfunctional! Like no one else😁

♬ original sound - Awesome Ends With Me🖕

In this video that @awesomeendswithme3 recently shared, she and her family seem to have brought a doggy bag back from dinner for a very hungry Chihuahua. Clearly, this lady is starving!

"When your parents' dog is so spoiled, she gets her own taco," the OP wrote on the video, adding the face palm emoji. Hey, look at that dog's face — is she trying to tell us that she could say no to a face like that?! 

Just looking at the taco on the table totally sets her off,  and she's whining for her snack. She even looks at the OP as she films the video with the most impatient expression on her face — she is not pleased that they're taking so long. 

She's used to having yummy treats, though. In another video, she's snacking on a Rice Krispie treat. If my dog came to live with these people, she would never come home! 

Something tells me this pup knows she's spoiled, and that's exactly how she likes it. 

Are Tacos Safe for Dogs?  

Like many other topics involving human food and dogs, the answer to this question is "it depends." 

Certain ingredients that are used in tacos, like onions, garlic, sour cream, and avocado are unsafe for dogs to consume, as Muenster Pets points out. But if you use dog-friendly ingredients, they can definitely participate in Taco Tuesday (or any other night, because any time is a good time to eat tacos). 

Stick to ground beef and veggies like peppers and zucchini, and you'll be set — the website linked above even offers up a recipe for dog tacos using sweet potatoes for the shells since the regular kind can be hard for pups to digest. 

Here's hoping this little Chihuahua enjoyed her snack (with no tummy problems). She deserves it! 

Australian Shepherd's Persistent Attempt to Warn Family of Disaster Is Applause-Worthy

Fri, 05/03/2024 - 6:30am

A smart Australian Shepherd persistently tried to warn his family of disaster, and his method was applause-worthy.

On March 28, 2024, TikTok user Ripley the Australian Shepherd (@letsgoripley) shared a video of the persistent pup with something to say. Take a look!

@letsgoripley

He’s so freakin’ smart! #Talkingdog #letsgoripley #ripleytalks #fluentpet #australianshepherd #dogs

♬ original sound - Ripley the Australian Shepherd

In a minute-long video, we meet Ripley who uses buttons to talk and as his famiy knows, that can come in handy.

Related: Australian Cattle Dog’s Birthday Celebration Is Full of Pure Joy

In this case, the smart Australian Shepherd smelled something that he knew wasn't something he should smell coming from the laundry room.

"Dad started some laundry before having lunch," the text on the screen reads.

Ripley calmly hits the "smell" button while the family continues to eat. He's not gettng their attention despite barking a few more times, in diffeent ways to try and get their attention.

He then hits the "outside" button a few times. Then, it does the same for the button "garden."

This got Dad's attention, who then went to go and check the laundry.

That's where the Dad found out what the smart dog was trying to warn them about the whole time.

"He smells outside gardens inside the house," the dad said, recapping Ripley's words.

And he was right because the garden-smelling laundry detergent had spilled all over the floor. 

Interesting Facts About Australian Shepherds

According to the American Kennel Club, the three words used to describe this dog breed are smart, work-oriented, and exuberant.

The organization warns that "this strong work drive can make Aussies too much dog for a sedentary pet owner." This means that if you want to get along with your Aussie, it's probably best that you like to be up and about.

"Aussies are remarkably intelligent, quite capable of hoodwinking an unsuspecting novice owner. In short, this isn't the pet for everyone. But if you're looking for a brainy, tireless, and trainable partner for work or sport, your search might end here."

But if you love being out and about, these are great dogs. They're generally really healthy and only need to have their ears routinely checked to remove any wax buildup.

These guys need weekly brushing sessions and likely need extra baths since they love to work outside and get into things. According to the club, using an undercoat rake and a wire brush helps.

Australian Shepherds are happiest when given a job. They can help with shepherding children, even if you need them. According to the Humane Society, this breed is typically good for kids. 

Baby's Fit of Giggles Over Playing with Beagle Is Positively Contagious

Thu, 05/02/2024 - 3:45pm

Anyone who had a dog before having kids knows that it can be a bit nerve wracking to introduce your new baby to your first baby. After all, you're hoping it all goes well (and desperately begging the universe that you didn't just welcome a baby who has pet allergies) so that all of those dreams you had about the dog and the baby becoming best friends and growing up together will materialize. Some human/dog siblings do get off to a bit of a rough start, but others have that insta-BFF bond from the moment they meet. 

That seems to be true for the dog and the little one in this adorable TikTok video. Not only have they clearly hit it off, but I can't imagine anyone in the world makes this toddler laugh harder than her pup does! 

@krooke68

#bestfriends #beagle #toddler #beagleandtoddler #partnersincrime #babygiggles #toddlerlaugh #laughter #giggles

♬ original sound - Krooke

Anyone who needs a pick-me-up (or who just enjoys seeing videos of dogs and babies being adorable together) should definitely watch this video that @krooke68 shared on Wednesday, May 1. 

This sweet Beagle is playing with a toddler who simply can't get enough of the fact that the dog has the zoomies, and honestly, it's very possible that the dog keeps dashing around the. house to keep hearing those cute giggles coming from the tiny human. 

She appears to be a fairly new walker, so I have a feeling this dog was really giving her little legs a workout as she kept chasing him around the house. She tried so hard to keep up, too! 

And as multiple commenters pointed out, the dog was actually doing the parents a solid, since he was keeping the kiddo happy and getting her all worn out so she'd take a nice long nap after they played, too. So basically, every parent needs to adopt a Beagle. Fine, they convinced me!

What Causes the Zoomies? 

If your dog likes to zoom around the house (or your yard) like this Beagle is doing, it's totally normal! Most people refer to this as "having the zoomies," but there's actually a name for it: Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAP). 

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), they're defined as "frantic, repetitive behavior such as running in circles or spinning around" and helps dogs get rid of energy they've been holding onto in one go.

Different things can trigger FRAPs, like certain times of day, locations, or even stressful situations. If you've witnessed this before, once they're off, they're off, and you've just gotta let them do their thing! 

Still, they can be pretty funny to watch — especially if you're a baby, apparently! 

Indian Ring Neck Parrot Meows Like a Cat and It's Too Cute

Thu, 05/02/2024 - 3:30pm

A very regal Indian Ring Neck Parrot shows off his cool skill that lets him sound like a cat with his "meows," and it's too cute.

On April 27, 2024, TikTok user Mintee & Amber (@Mintee_cutiee) shared a video of 2-year-old Mintee showing his special talent to Amber. Take a look!

@mintee_cutiee

Meow meow meow meow😻💚🤍✨ Mintee and Amber💚🤍✨ #fluffy #beepbeep #beep #talkingbird #talkingparrot #funnypet #funnypets #silly #greenbird #greenparrot #parrot #birb #birbs #cute #adorable #fy #fyp #reel #reels #lol #pets #petlover #animal #cutestpets #petmom #ringneckparrot #indianringneckparrot #parakeet #foryoupage #fyp #viral #fy #fypシ #beautifull #maldives #mintee green #amber #white #meow #meowmeow #whiteindianringneck

♬ original sound - Mintee & Amber

In a short seven-second video, we get a good look at Mintee, an Indian Ring Next to Parrott, who is really good at mimicking another animal.

Related: Parrot Couple Playing Peekaboo and Sharing Kisses Will Melt Anyone’s Heart

In the clip, Mintee and Amber sit on the same perch. Mintee starts to scoot closer to Amber, and when he gets really close, he gets ready for something important he has to say.

Mintee gently places his beek on Amber's head, opens his beat, and says, "Meow, meow, meow, meow."

And that's it. The video cuts and we're left watching this gem probably a few more times.

In the comment section, people had a lot say.

"That might be a cat," one person wrote, obviously referencing Mintee's perfect meow sound.

"So cute," someone else wrote.

"That confidence, though!" shared another.

"The strut over," someone else pointed out.

Another viewer shared, "The rizz."

Someone else joined in the comment section, writing, "I love cats more, but this is so cute."

Interesting Facts About the Indian Ring Neck Parrot

A very regal Indian Ring Neck Parrot shows off his cool skill that lets him sound like a cat with his "meows," and it's too cute.

According to NorthernParrots, this incredible bird has a potential lifespan of 40 years and grows to be approximately 11g and 16" in length.

The Ring Neck Parrot originates from "Central Africa; India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Burma," the site explains. "Introduced or living as feral populations in countless countries. In the UK it is so well established, especially in the south-east that they are now on the list of British birds!"

If you're looking for a Parrot that is really good at mimicry, the Indian Ring Neck Parrot is really good at doing that, which we can see in the video with Mintee.

"Some Ringnecks have become very good mimics and acquired a quite extensive vocabulary," NorthernParrots shares. 

As for pet potential, the Indian Ring Neck Parrot is great for the home, but the experts flag that these parrots don't tolerate long periods inside a cage each day, so that's something you really need to keep in mind. But these are really fun birds.

"It is an intelligent bird that easily becomes bored and needs a more stimulating life than that which it receives when closely confined. When let out to fly about the room, it can do serious damage to furniture," NorthernParrots writes.

Groom Does 'First Look' With His Dachshund and It Has People Sobbing

Thu, 05/02/2024 - 3:00pm

Your wedding day is one of the best days of your life. Everyone is gathered with you, watching you and the person you (hopefully) love decide you want to spend the rest of your lives legally tethered to each other. It's all very adorable, but if you can't include your dog, you might feel like something is missing. 

On Wednesday, May 1st, a bride and groom found the sweetest way to include their Miniature Dachshund in their big day. Somehow, it made the whole experience so magical that millions of viewers will never forget it:

@mad_meineke12

If you are looking for a way to inckude your dog in your wedding… let this be your idea. He turned around and 100% thought it would be me 🥹 #dachshundsoftiktok #dachshund #doxiesoftiktok #dachshundsoftiktok #2024bride #firstlook #firstlookwithgroom #weddingdogideas

♬ slipping through my fingers - zappo™

I'm so glad @mad_meineke12's wedding went smoothly, and I'm even more glad that they let us all in to see the best part. He was totally not expecting her!

Related: Dachshund Can't Contain His Excitement Over Taking a Trip to 'Raising Cane's'

Wedding season is here, guys! We all know what that means: time to expect lots of videos of people including their dogs however they can. This is just the tip of the iceberg, and honestly, it's the best way to kick off the season. He wasn't expecting her to be there, but she was, and both of them were so happy! 

Their Dachshund is a huge part of their lives: Madeline has posted videos of her before, namely her big stomps that shake the whole house. This was a perfect way to include her in their wedding. Having a dog in the ceremony itself can be kind of scary. 

Easy Ways to Include Your Dog in Your Wedding

There are dozens of ways people include their dogs in their weddings, and there are varying degrees of involvement. Some people go all-out and do a pet friendly wedding, while others prefer subtle things that won't be upsetting to their guests. Some things you can do are:

  1. Naming drinks or dishes after them instead of having them attend the wedding themselves. 
  2. Letting them be the "flower pup" or the ring bearer. 
  3. Turning them into bridesmaids or groomsmen. 
  4. Doing something like this first look so that the dog doesn't have to be a huge part of the ceremony. 

Whether or not you include your dog in your wedding is completely up to you, and you shouldn't ever feel guilty for including them, but you should make sure your guests are aware. You can just put a note on your save-the-dates that there will be a dog present. If you want to go one step further, you could even include an option to be put in the pet-free section. Just a thought!

Chocolate Lab Turns Into Total Drama Queen After Dropping Her Toy in Pool

Thu, 05/02/2024 - 2:30pm

A funny Chocolate Labrador "dropped" her toy into the pool, and her reaction immediately made people giggle.

TikTok user Paisley The Chocolate Lab (@paisley_thechocolab) shared a video of the sweet Chocolate Lab walking around the pool and having instant regret after her toy went into the water. Take a look!

@paisley_thechocolab

Dropping or throwing in…. Same thing right? #chocolatelab #labradorretriever #labradorsoftiktok #doglover #dogmomstruggles #chocolatelabsoftiktok #funnylabrador #labradorlover

♬ Monkeyshine-JP - Lt FitzGibbons Men

In a quick 30-second video, we meet Paisley, a beautiful Chocolate Lab.

Related: Man Winds Up in a Pool of Tears After Realizing He’s a New Dog Dad

In the video, the pup is walking around the pool with a toy in her mouth. She walks up to the side of the pool, and you can almost see her brain working, wondering if she should go ahead and do what her inner voice is telling her.

And she went for it and "dropped" the toy in her mouth into the pool.

You can tell it was a "let's see what happens" decision as she slowly dropped the toy in. But her reaction right after, realizing that the toy was now at the bottom of the pool and she was likely not allowed in the water, was instant and hilarious.

The video's text reads, "Not my lab 'dropping' her toy in the pool and then getting mad about it."

And that's exactly what happened after. The sweet pup had instant regret, and it was really funny, actually.

"Dropping or throwing in ... same thing, right?" the video's caption read. And people had a lot to say in the comments, too.

"She is the drama," one fan wrote.

"Everyone needs a little self-made drama sometimes," shared another.

"Chocolates are something else ... I have two," wrote someone else. 

Important Pool Safety Considerations for Dogs

Summertime brings open pools, and if you have a dog, there are some important water safety considerations you need to be aware of to keep them safe.

The first thing you need, according to PetMD, is a pool fence. "They are installed in panels that stand about 4–5 feet off the ground," they write. 

"In other words, no jumping into the pool from the sides. This is also a good way to ensure safety, so your pup doesn’t accidentally fall into the water."

Plus, it's also important to teach your dog to swim. Yes, many can do their instinctual paddle swim in the water, but being comfortable in it is key.

PetMD writes, "Training your dog to be comfortable in the water is the main goal, but teaching them to learn to swim properly is just as important. Even better, it's great exercise for dogs, especially older pups with mobility issues."

Dogs should also use life jackets if they're around water and aren't confident swimmers.

Golden Retriever's Epic Dance to Avoid Ear Cleaning Is Must-See Cuteness

Thu, 05/02/2024 - 2:00pm

Everyone has something they have to do that they absolutely hate. For me, it's washing my hair: it's so much work! Dogs have things like that too, which might include baths, nail trims, or apparently, getting their ears cleaned. 

On Wednesday, May 1st, one dog mom recorded her battle with her pup as she tried to clean his ears. He put up a very good fight, but something tells me he wasn't victorious in the end:

@millieandbennett

#fyp #goldenretriever #goldens

♬ original sound - MORE ENERGY 😎

Millie and Bennet have the best relationship. Bennett is definitely the sassy one: Millie is pretty chill!

Related: Golden Retriever Puppy 'Spying' on the Neighbors Is Here for All the Drama

Bennett is, like all other Golden Retrievers, complete chaos in the form of a fluffy, lovable dog. While he enjoys long walks and being told how gorgeous he is, he also undoubtedly loves causing drama and making life as hard as possible for everyone around him. When he's not avoiding ear cleanings, he can be found stealing shoes and fighting with the family's robot vacuum. 

He also, like all Golden Retrievers, needs regular maintenance. His long fur is easily matted, and if it gets overgrown, it can negatively impact their ability to see and walk. Fur grows just about everywhere on a Golden Retriever, including in those massive floppy ears. Unfortunately for Bennett, ear cleaning is part of their regular routine. 

Golden Retrievers are Prone to Ear Infections

A Golden Retriever's ears are one of the cutest things about them. They're big and floppy and sometimes they fold over, which makes them look like little aliens. However, even with as cute as they are, they're also one of the most worrisome parts of the dog.

Golden Retrievers are famous for their ear infections, especially during the summer months. As it warms up, they spend as much time swimming as they can, and their floppy ears trap water. Additionally, their ears tend to get yeasty in the summer: it's a warm, dark place. Bacteria will thrive. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to prevent them:

  1. Put doggy swim caps on them before they get in the water. 
  2. If you can't do that, let them swim, but clean and dry their ears as soon as they get out. 
  3. Clean their ears once a week (or more if they're swimming often).
    1. Be careful not to be excessive, though, because the solution can dry out their skin. 
  4. Have regular checkups at the vet for them to look in there!

If your dog has an ear infection, you'll know. They may be off-balance, shake their heads excessively, or have a really bad smell coming from them. It's okay and easy to fix: some medicine from the vet and a better cleaning routine and you're golden (no pun intended...)!

Senior Golden Retriever's Sweet Way of Asking for Snuggles Is Heart-Melting

Thu, 05/02/2024 - 1:15pm

It's such a privilege to have the opportunity to watch our dogs grow older — that usually means that they're having a long, happy, healthy life, which is the best possible outcome. But that doesn't mean it's always easy to see the changes in the dogs we knew as energetic and playful as they age, and to discover they can no longer do something that was once no big deal at all to them. There's a more positive way to look at it, though: This also gives us the opportunity to show them how much we love them by helping them out more than we once needed to.

One dog mom is showing how she's doing that for her aging Golden Retriever in the sweetest TikTok video. Her elderly dog needed a little extra help, and she was more than happy to provide.

@makenziecann

i think raffi approves of the new comforter and pillows. 🥰🤍 #goodnightguys

♬ Wash. - Bon Iver

On Wednesday, May 1, @makenziecann shared a video to show what happens when her Golden Retriever, Raffi, wants to snuggle with her. Now that he's a senior dog, he can't get up on her bed by himself to join his mama, but she's always willing to give him a boost — literally. 

When he needs help getting up there, he just puts his adorable face on the side of the bed, wagging his tail. That's all it takes, and she lifts that sweet boy up, where he immediately cuddles up to go to sleep. This is a guy who knows how to do bedtime right! 

He looks so happy and at peace in bed with his mom — and since she wrote in her caption that she just got new pillows and a new comforter, it seems like he's extra comfy up there. 

More About Raffi

Makenzie has been sharing 13 year old Raffi's story on TikTok for awhile now, along with all of the ways that she's trying to help her dog live out the rest of his life in the happiest, most comfortable ways possible.

Sometimes, for them, that means bringing along a wagon so that he can join her and the other dog in the family for a walk. Other times, they're hanging out and doing things that dogs (and people) love that are also easy for a senior dog to participate in, like sharing an ice cream cone. 

At this point, more than 20,000 subscribers are following along with this bittersweet journey, and it really seems like these two are making the most of the time they get to spend together. 

It looks like Makenzie and Raffi are both very lucky to have each other. May they have many more happy memories still to make! 

Woman's 'Rescue Fox' Throwing Tantrum to Get Inside Is the Definition of Spoiled

Thu, 05/02/2024 - 1:00pm

Sometimes, we find ourselves with pets we never anticipated, even if they're not technically our pets. They come around all the time, knowing that they're safe with us and can expect to find food and some comfort if they need. There's nothing sweeter!

One woman had this exact thing happen to her with a pair of foxes, Freddie and Frannie. They spend all their time in her yard, and when they're cold or the weather is bad, they know they can go to her for comfort. On Wednesday, May 1st, she showed everyone that he really does expect to be treated like a dog:

@feeyatheflowertot

Replying to @Skylar Stewart

♬ original sound - Thea

I love this for @feeyatheflowertot, but I am so jealous. I have 3 dogs, but for some reason, I suddenly think I need a pet fox...

Related: Baby Fox and Baby Raccoon's 'Fairytale' Friendship Needs a Cuteness Warning

Thea has been "mothering" foxes for a while. It started out with one she named Fergie, who came into her yard one day skinny and suffering from a bad case of mange. Unfortunately, nature took its course with Fergie, but not before she got to experience a few months of love and care. 

Before Fergie stopped coming around, she brought Thea her two babies, who she dubbed Freddie and Frannie. She's been taking care of them since they were just kits, and they know they can trust her. Though she doesn't like to let them in her house, there are a few videos on her page of her taking them in at different times. Funnily enough, her orange cat doesn't even seem to mind!

You Should Not Get a Pet Fox

I'll just come right out and say it: don't. A fox may wander into your yard. Then it comes back, and you think to yourself... maybe I could just have a fox. Then you're putting food out for it, and then you're trying to bring it inside, and your life is a mess. It's a terrible idea. 

Not only are foxes extremely unpredictable, they're predators. By laying out food, water, and shelter for them (especially as kits), you're hindering their hunting instincts, and that could be deadly. Without a natural fear of humans, foxes are much more likely to be run over, hunted for sport, or killed for getting too close to humans who don't feed it. 

Thea's situation was a little bit different: Fergie brought the kits to her and then died. Without their mother, they would've been doomed, but not with her to care for them. Even still, if you find abandoned kits, you should contact animal control first. Otherwise, they'll pull a Freddie and demand to come inside!

Pages

Sullivan Independent News

Sullivan Independent News
411 Scottsdale
Sullivan, MO 63080

Phone: 573-468-6511
Fax: 573-468-4046

 

general@sullivannews.net
sports@sullivannews.net
advertising@sullivannews.net
billing@sullivannews.net