Parade Pets

Puppies can have very animated reactions to the most basic objects or situations, which just adds to their charm. Still learning about the world around them, these fluffy fur babies feel unsure about items they can’t understand and respond in sometimes comical ways.

Frankie the Bernese Mountain puppy had quite an assertive response to a carbonated beverage and had no problem expressing herself.

@frankieinthepines

she won btw #BerneseMountainDog #Berner #BernesePuppy #PuppyTok #DogTok

♬ original sound – Frankie in the Pines

In the TikTok from @frankieinthepines, the pretty puppy was in the front seat of the car staring at a water bottle and a to-go soda beside her in a pair of cupholders. Though there were two beverages sharing her space, Frankie clearly had a bone to pick with the soda and didn’t hold back.

“POV: Your 8-week-old Berner picks a fight with a soda,” the on-screen text explained.

She eyed the soda, trying to figure out the best angle to approach. Frankie fired off a few warning barks before giving the soda a solid boop with her nose. When she realized the soda wouldn’t back down, Frankie got a little frustrated and nudged the water bottle to buy some time.

Unsure of her next move, the fluffy fur baby got more vocal and gave the soda one more firm talking-to, though her goal remained unclear. Followers found the scene hilarious and rooted for Frankie:

• “The audacity of THAT SODA to NOT be a pup cup? How rude,” one remarked.
• “After she booped it she definitely said a cuss word like ‘heck you!’“ another pointed out.
• “That soda’s been causing problems,” a follower noted.
• “Telling you the dangers of aspartame,” someone posted.
• “She better be a Costco executive member and you better have gotten her a hot dog!” a fan commented.

The caption revealed, “She won, by the way.”

Do Bernese Mountain Dogs Frequently Bark?

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known as loving and playful gentle giants. They are not the most vocal breed or considered excessive barkers, though they will alert their pet parents to potential danger or unusual noises. Berners may bark more if they are bored, anxious, lonely, or want attention.

Frankie’s confrontation with the soda cup was probably her way of figuring out what the object represented — or maybe she just wanted a sip.

Related: Bernese Mountain Puppy Turns Into ‘Perfect Little Fluff Nugget’ After First Grooming

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If I could make sure every single dog had a loving home for their entire life, I would do it. No animal deserves to be abandoned, but unfortunately, it happens frequently. It can happen to any pet, at any time, at any age.

One German Shepherd was surrendered to the shelter after 8 years of loyalty. He was just so upset: he gave them nothing but love and care, and now he’s in a kennel. His actions say it all:

@lyssthepawfairy

I am pleading for help for Odin. His kennel stress is becoming overwhelming, and I can’t calm him unless he gets out of the shelter. Odin is one of the many German Shepherds at Baldwin Park, but what stands out most is how incredibly friendly he is. I’ve spent time sitting with him, petting him, and all he wants is love. Odin is dog-friendly but prefers female dogs (no male dogs). He doesn’t have much time left, and he deserves the chance to leave the shelter alive. If you can foster or adopt, please send me a direct message. Please help me save Odin. ODIN ID: A5781672 Breed: GERM SHEPHERD Sex: Male Age: 8 years 1 months 📍Baldwin Park Animal Care Center 4275 North Elton Street Baldwin Park, CA 91706 United States

♬ Sand Drawing – Judah Earl

Lyss the Paw Fairy goes around to shelters in the Los Angeles area and takes videos of dogs. She hopes that posting them will help find some of them homes, and it certainly does help! The more people view them, the more potential adopters these dogs have.

Odin was suffering from kennel stress. When she got there, he’d been in the shelter for a month, and he was just completely devastated. He was also on the euthanasia list: he didn’t have long left to find a home. Eight years of loyalty and his life was boiling down to nothing.

Related: German Shepherd Puppy ‘Meets a Blueberry’ and Makes a Very Clear Enemy

Luckily, Odin was adopted by a loving home after this video! When you look up his shelter ID on Baldwin Park’s website, it says he was officially adopted. I’m so happy for him! But Lyss’s work isn’t done, and she went on to post about another senior German Shepherd in need:

@lyssthepawfairy

💔 Holding out hope that Margaret’s family is still out there. Whether you’re nearby or far away, Margaret needs you. 🐾❤️ She has participated in playgroups and does well with other dogs. This sweet senior deserves a peaceful place to relax, feel loved, and enjoy the rest of her life. Her story shouldn’t end in a shelter. She deserves a family, a soft bed, and the comfort of finally knowing she’s home. 🥺 If you can help Margaret, please direct message me. 🙏🏼🐶 MARGARET ID: A5778651 Breed: GERM SHEPHERD Sex: Female Age: 8 years 3 months 📍Baldwin Park Animal Care Center 4275 North Elton Street Baldwin Park, CA 91706 United States

♬ som original – | astroxv |

Margaret is still available for adoption! She’s at Baldwin Park Animal Care Center in Baldwin Park, CA. If you think you could be her forever home, please do! She’s been in the shelter since May of this year. It’s time for this girl to go home!

Senior Dogs Are Surrendered Often

I have 2 senior dogs: 11 and 7. I couldn’t imagine surrendering them for anything. While we don’t know exactly what Odin and Margaret’s circumstances were, and sometimes surrender is the most humane option, it’s still so sad. Pups deserve to spend their golden years in peace!

CookiesForDevo / Getty Images

Senior dogs are harder to care for than younger ones. They take more time, effort, and money. They start needing more help as they get older, and for a lot of people, it’s just not something they can or are willing to handle. Senior dogs are surrendered because of:

• Medical issues that pop up.
• Lethargy, which can make them seem less “fun.”
• A desire for a new puppy.
• A lack of time to dedicate to caring for them.

It’s awful and sounds so unfair, especially if they’ve been with you their whole lives. In a lot of cases, they’re surrendered unnecessarily, but sometimes it really is the best thing the family could’ve done for the dog.

I try not to judge anyone too harshly. Odin got the loving home he deserves for his golden years, and that’s all that matters to me. I hope that Margaret is next!

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A leopard spotted two honey badgers foraging and made a decision they would almost immediately reconsider.

Two honey badgers were walking in the Sabie Riverbed in South Africa, and the big cat moved towards them. However, the moment the leopard got close, the entire encounter changed.

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The remarkable footage was filmed by Mark Kaplan on the S30 road in South Africa’s Kruger National Park and submitted to Latest Sightings. According to the account of the sighting, Kaplan and his friends had already spotted the leopard before it headed toward the river.

The Calculation That Went Wrong

The leopard approaches the honey badgers with an overconfident posture. One big cat and two honey badgers—the math seems obvious until it isn’t. The honey badgers noticed the cat’s presence, but they didn’t scatter. Instead, they turned and charged directly at the leopard.

They began attacking the leopard, causing the cat to back up. The cat kept backing up as the badgers attacked until the leopard eventually accepted defeat and ran.

“Leopard chose violence, and it ended badly. NEVER bet against a Honey Badger,” noted one commenter.

Related: Baby Rhino Spots a Pride of Lions and Has Some Thoughts About Who’s Really King of the Jungle

Why Honey Badgers Don’t Behave Like Prey

Honey badgers have earned a reputation online. They have thick, loose skin, making them difficult to grip. A predator that gets its teeth into a badger quickly finds out that the animal can turn inside its own skin and bite back.

In this case, the leopard thought they had a size advantage. However, the badgers behaved as if they had no interest in accepting their fate.

As one commenter wrote, “The best form of defense is a solid plan of offense.”

Sometimes the Smartest Predator Is the One That Walks Away

The leopard’s retreat was a sensible decision. Leopards are selective and solitary predators. They rely on the conservation of energy, and they don’t take on a fight they can’t win. One injury can be costly for the animal that depends on its body to hunt. Taking on two determined honey badgers offers little reward.

The leopard did what predators do. They investigated an opportunity, and the moment they noticed it was not worth taking, they left.

Latest Sightings publishes authentic wildlife footage from across Africa without heavy editing or a constructed narrative. What you see is what the camera caught.

Related: Rare Black Bengal Kitten Looks Like a Tiny Leopard in Viral Video

She showed up on a front porch with extra toes, pneumonia, fleas and markings so dramatic that the internet couldn’t agree on what they looked like. One person said she looked like a cow. Another called her face a Rorschach test. Everyone agreed she was something special.

The kitten, named Whitey by the family’s son, appeared on Reddit’s r/CatDistributionSystem last week after her new family shared her story. And the story, like the cat herself, is a lot.

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The cat has a little black patch over her nose, dark markings stretching across her forehead and a pattern so unusual that Redditors cannot agree on what she looks like.

The Cat Distribution System Strikes Again

The owner joked that this was another delivery from the cat distribution system, the playful name for the way cats seemingly choose their humans.

It was not even the family’s first surprise. Three years earlier, the same person had taken in another kitten who had a badly injured lower lip and a BB gun pellet in her leg after being chased by a fox. This time, they joked that the family had moved from the cat distribution system to the kitten distribution system. Judging by the comments, Redditors had no objections.

The kitten’s story started with a sick little cat appearing on a porch. However, after people saw that inkblot of a face and those extra toes, they were already asking for the next chapter. Now, many more are waiting to see how gorgeous Whitey becomes.

Related: Tiny House Tuxedo Cat Sends a Bear Running, and the Internet Has One Hilarious Take

Reddit Couldn’t Agree on Her Facial Look

After a trip to the vet and several days to recuperate, the owner said she seemed to be improving.

Still, Redditors are fascinated by her unusual markings. “Serious cow cat,” wrote one user. Another pointed to the black patch on the nose, while someone else called it a “unique pattern.” There was even a Rorschach comparison. There was even a commenter who suggested turning the photo upside down because the markings looked like the map of Texas.

Everyone Wants to See The Glow-Up

One of the photos the family shared shows Whitey after her treatment, with damp fur, wrapped tightly in a towel and looking exhausted. The markings look even more dramatic when wet.

The community wants to know what comes next. One fan wrote, “Please update us because she’s going to be gorgeous when she feels better.”

Another said, “What a sweet baby. I’m glad she found you and is getting better.”

That anticipation is easy to understand. An underweight, sick kitten can look dramatically different once they have recovered. And if Whitey’s markings are already unforgettable, who knows what they’ll look like in a couple of months.

Related: Rare Cat With a Paint-Splattered Coat Looks Just Like an Oreo McFlurry

Some cat parents clean the litter box every single day, and then there are the rest of us. You know the litter box needs cleaning, but life gets in the way more often than you would like.

If you fall into the second group, there is a Purina cat litter that is receiving honest reviews from self-described “lazy” pet parents like yourself.

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Purina Tidy Cats Free & Clean Unscented Litter for Multiple Cats, $19.99 at Target Shop It!

Purina Tidy Cats Free & Clean Unscented Clumping Cat Litter at Target is the product you need to buy if you aren’t a serial scooper.

One review on Target got straight to the point. “I’m not the best in regards of cleaning the litter box daily,” the shopper admitted. “With that being said I don’t have any smells in my home and it seems to not irritate our cat. There are no odors, there is a little trail right outside the litter box, and the absorbency is great when I do clean it out. Overall a powerhouse litter.”

The litter contains no fragrances ordyes, and uses activated charcoal for odor absorption. Made with low-dust clay, Purina promises 10-day odor control when used as instructed.

Related: Cat Parents Found a Halloween Scratcher So Perfectly Spooky, They’re Buying It for Themselves

Another shopper, who has fostered cats for decades, wrote on Target.com that this became their go-to litter. “We have been fostering cats for decades and since COVID, litter quality has declined significantly. This is now our go-to. Much more consistent. Limited tracking and minimal dust,” they shared.

Another reviewer kept things simple, saying that the litter keeps the room odor-free. Meanwhile, another pet parent was relieved to have an unscented option because scented litters spread their smell throughout the house.

For cat parents who dislike perfume-heavy litter, this is a good reason to pay attention. And if you look at the litter box and think, “I’ll deal with that tomorrow,” the honest reviews for the Purina Tidy Cats Free & Clean Unscented Litter offer a convincing reason to add it to your shopping list.

Related: Cat Parents Are Calling This Hidden Rattan Litter Box Furniture a Rare 10/10—and It’s Easy to See Why

Both of my dogs have short-haired coats that are easy to maintain, yet there are plenty of breeds that need regular grooming appointments. The Shih-Tzu, English Sheepdog, Bichon Frisé, and Yorkshire Terrier are a few breeds that can turn into giant fuzz balls if they don’t get their regular haircut.

Rue the Poodle mix must have lost the memo about keeping up with timely trims and sported a hairstyle that looked like a fluffy sweet treat.

@juliatforr

Girl needs a trim

♬ original sound – Julia Forrester

In the TikTok from @juliatforr, the puffy-haired pooch had clearly been dozing and tried to get her bearings after a solid sleep.

“Did you just wake up from your nap?” her mom asked as Rue gave her a sleepy-eyed stare. “Seems like it was a good one.”

While her drowsy gaze was adorable — and totally relatable — Rue’s wild and wispy coat was the attention-grabber. Obviously overdue for a haircut, the pretty Poodle mix’s free-flowing, airy curls spilled out in all directions like a fuzzy cloud. Her thick, tousled, and uneven layers of fur piled on top of one another looked like a giant dollop of whipped marshmallow cream.

“Girl needs a trim,” the caption noted.

Followers fell in love with the fluffy fur baby and pointed out the sluggish stare amidst the head-turning ‘do:

• “This is my guilty pleasure, letting my mini Poodle go a little longer between cuts just so I can see the wild bed head,” one admitted.
• “Cutie pie marshmallow,” another remarked.
• “Your baby looks so soft and so cuddly,” a follower raved.
• “She’s so adorable. I love the fuzzy look,” someone gushed.
• “In my house, we call this ‘smoosh face’ from a really good sleep,” a fan shared.

How Often Should Curly-Haired Dogs Get Groomed?

Dogs with wavy and curly-haired coats have higher grooming requirements than short-haired canines. Breeds like the Poodle, Maltese, Havanese, and Portuguese Water Dog should be brushed daily by their pet parents and get monthly baths.

Related: Fluffy Toy Poodle Snuggles With Paddington Bear, and Followers Think They’re ‘Literally Twins’

These puffy pooches need to be professionally groomed every 3 to 4 weeks to keep their coats healthy and free of mats, and should get trimmed of overgrown hair every 6 to 8 weeks.

Even though Rue needs a trip to the salon, she’s rocking the “lived-in” look.

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Intro

@bplusparrotmom

I took Dolly outside to spend a couple hours in the sunshine and she LOVED it. She didn’t live the grass on her bare little chicken legs, but she was all about being outside. And her voice 🥹 She’s started talking a bit more and her quiet little shy voice just melts me everytime 💕 #rescueparrot #cockatoo #parrot #rescuebird #parrotlover

♬ original sound – B+ Cockatoo Mom

Thanks to the love and devotion of her new mom, @bplusparrotmom, Dolly gets a fresh start and is learning how to enjoy the little things in life, like feeling the sun on her beak. The sweet, quiet girl loved outside time (not the grass so much), and her meek little voice is a sign that this Cockatoo is beginning to trust again.

Many fans couldn’t help but notice the uncanny resemblance to the late, great Dolly Parton. Between the pastel blue around her eyes and big “blonde hair,” she’s like a miniature bird version of Dolly, and after 2 hours in the sunshine, she’s feeling a little more “Dolly” than before!

Not to mention she’s modeling the cutest tiny sweater ever knitted. Due to her chronic plucking (from stress), her feathers may never grow back, so these sweaters are more than just cute; they’re much-needed warmth.

Related: Sweet Cockatoo Reacting to ‘Best Friend’ Leaving for Work Is Too Cute for Words

There’s been a lot of firsts for the rescue Parrot, and each new thing takes some getting used to. She had her first bath and is learning how to balance on Mom’s hand so Mom can hold her close. The “incredibly sweet and curious” girl will need time to see that not all humans will hurt her.

“I actually look forward to the day Dolly starts being a little naughty Cockatoo,” Mom wrote. “I want her to tell me ‘no.’ I want her to have opinions, push boundaries, and be defiant sometimes. Because when Dolly finally feels safe enough to misbehave, I’ll know she finally understands that she’s allowed to.”

@bplusparrotmom

Hallelujah 🙌 Dolly loves her little sock sweaters AND she actually leaves them on! 🥹💕 And it’s a really good thing, because Dolly needs them. With no signs of any stage of new feathers emerging under her skin, it’s looking more and more likely that years of chronic plucking have permanently damaged many of her feather follicles. Without feathers to help regulate her body temperature, keeping this little naked chicken warm is going to be an important part of her care. Thankfully, Dolly seems perfectly happy to embrace her new sweater wardrobe. 🧦😂 After everything she’s been through, she deserves to be warm, cozy, and ridiculously spoiled. 💕 #rescuebird #rescue #parrot #cockatoo #rescueparrot

♬ original sound – B+ Cockatoo Mom

It’s a good sign that Dolly wants to preen her new mom, as it’s a loving gesture Cockatoos do among their flocks. And yes, we are crying.

How To Help Rescue Birds Thrive 

Taking in a rescue Cockatoo with so much past trauma requires a loving, patient bird parent who can provide a safe, predictable environment and a no-pressure, slow approach to build trust.

Dolly took to her new mom right away, but other rescue birds might prefer a hands-off method so they can decide how and when to make contact. Having part of their cage covered and positioned in a quiet spot helps them feel safe and secure while they decompress.

The NW Parrot Rescue suggests at least 3 hours of daily interaction, 3 different rotating toys or enrichment activities, and 3 opportunities for physical movement as the foundation. And as always, read their body language so you don’t force interaction.

With consistent routines, positive reinforcement, and cage-free time, these feathery friends will eventually come out of their shells. As for sweet Dolly, she deserves nothing but sunshine days for the rest of her life (and all the cute sweaters)!

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I am extremely susceptible to puppies wearing accessories. Put a tiny sweater on a dog and I’m interested. Add a little bow and I’m basically finished. But put TWO pale pink bows on an impossibly fluffy Australian Shepherd puppy and apparently I lose the ability to think rationally at all.

Because look at this baby girl. She’s caramel brown and white, outrageously fluffy and sitting sweetly on a dog bed with two little pink bows in her fur. She just looks around innocently like she has absolutely no idea she’s dressed like somebody’s beloved toddler on picture day.

@petlandpetspensacola

The cutest little mini Aussie girl 🐶🎀 #puppy #aussie #australianshepherd #miniaussie #puppies

♬ Sweet Nothing Start – Teagan

The adorable clip was shared by the TikTok account @petlandpetspensacola, and people are understandably having difficulty coping.

“Stahhhhhpppp it! She’s perfect!” one person wrote.

“You are such a little bundle of cuteness,” added another.

Related: ‘Possum-Looking’ Stray Cat Gets American Girl ‘Apartment’ Like a Royal Princess

Someone else called her a “sweet angel baby,” which feels like the appropriate description here.

Then there was the person whose emotions got the better of them: “Omg, not me crying over her cuteness.”

“Angel straight from heaven!” another viewer declared.

But my favorite comment came from someone who knows exactly how dangerous it is to encounter an Aussie puppy on your For You Page.

“Why is this on my FYP? Literally every day I’m telling my son (and myself) we do not need another Aussie!”

TikTok heard you.

TikTok does not care.

Is an Aussie the Right Dog for Your Family? @thebarnstable

The 5 phases of owning an Australian Shepherd #doghumor #australianshepherd #aussiepuppy #aussiesdoingthings #aussiedog

♬ Sneaky Mischief – BrianMcGravey

Before two tiny pink bows convince you to bring home an Australian Shepherd, it’s worth remembering that there’s a whole lot of dog underneath all that fluff.

Australian Shepherds are intelligent, energetic herding dogs. They generally need plenty of physical activity along with mental stimulation, training and things to keep those very smart brains occupied.

That can make them wonderful companions for active families who want a dog involved in their daily lives. But if your dream dog considers moving from one end of the sofa to the other sufficient exercise for the day, an Aussie might not be your ideal match.

As with any breed, individual personalities vary, and anyone considering a puppy should think about whether the breed’s typical energy level, grooming needs and temperament work with their household and lifestyle.

This is important information.

It is also information that becomes significantly harder to process when the prospective puppy is sitting there wearing two pale pink bows.

She’s not trying to convince you to get another dog.

She’s just a baby girl.

TikTok is the one causing trouble.

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When you have a litter of puppies, things don’t always go as planned. You can plan as much as you like, but sometimes, your dog has triple the puppies you expected, or they come out looking like a baby bumblebee. You just never know.

Recently, when one Golden Retriever gave birth to her adorable litter of puppies, everything looked like it went according to plan… Until they took a closer look. They were a whole litter of red puppies, except for one:

@chapelspremiergoldens

#TampaGoldenRetrievers #GoldendoodleUltras #GoldendoodlePuppies #DarkRedGoldenRetriever #FloridaGoldenRetrievers

♬ origineel geluid – Vinzo Valentino

Chapel’s Premier Goldens was expecting a full litter of dark red Golden Retriever puppies. They got that, for the most part, save for one puppy. Using this sound from Mean Girls is so funny! It would have been exactly what I thought of!

Both Mom and Dad are dark red Goldens, but for them to have one little white (lighter golden) puppy, there have to be lighter genes in their line somewhere. Though it’s very funny to witness, this is actually not uncommon at all. Darker dogs have lighter puppies all the time.

Related: Gorgeous Red Golden Retriever Looks Like a Candy Apple Come to Life

All of the puppies, including the light one, are as healthy as can be. They’re still young, so it’ll be weeks before they go to their new homes, but that’s okay. Until then, they just have to play with each other and make sure their mom never gets a break. She won’t mind, though. Just look at that little face:

@chapelspremiergoldens

#TampaGoldenRetrievers #DarkRedGoldenRetriever #FloridaGoldenRetrievers #GoldenRetrieverPuppies #ChapelsPremierGoldens

♬ You’ll Be In My Heart – Piano Version – Enrique Lázaro

I’m obsessed with Golden Retriever puppies. I wish they stayed this little forever! Adult Goldens are gorgeous, but these puppies have a special place in my heart.

Different Golden Retriever Colors

When we hear a name like “Golden Retriever,” it’s easy to assume that all of the puppies will be the same shade of golden. In reality, there are more variations than you’d think!

Anadolu / Getty Images

There are three officially recognized variations of Golden Retrievers:

• Light Golden/English Cream: a butter-yellow, creamy color.
• Golden: bright golden fur (this is the most common).
• Dark Golden/Red: darker golden fur with a reddish hue.

No matter which color you choose, you’re getting a loving, loyal dog. Who knows, you might get a completely different colored puppy, too! He might stick out, but it’s in the best way!

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Now that it’s September, it’s time to start thinking about how you’re going to help the stray cats and feral kitties who live in your neighborhood. This heated cat house is a great place to start.

The K&H Extra Wide Heated Cat House is $85 at Walmart, and comes with free shipping. If you prefer the unheated style, you can get that from the same listing for just $44. These houses are designed to be used in barns, garages, porches, or anywhere kitties need a little protection from the elements.

This cute cat house is a great way to prepare for the colder months. It’s extra wide so it can fit multiple cats inside, and built to be weather-resistant with a waterproof exterior for year-round protection. And it has dual exits with removable clear plastic flaps, making it easy to escape if predators sneak up.

Inside is an ultra-soft, plush, waterproof pad for cats to sleep on, along with an insulated roof and walls to keep the cat house toasty warm. The heater in the cat house is designed to only activate when a cat is lying on it.

This cat house is designed to be easy to assemble, with no tools needed. Plus, it’s MET safety certified, which means it’s “meeting and exceeding UL standards for added peace of mind.”

K&H Extra Wide Heated Cat House for $85 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop it!

This cute cat house measures 21.5 inches by 26.5 inches, and 15.5 inches tall. Note that you should keep this out of direct rain or snow. However, it’s great to use outside on patios that are covered, in barns, garages, and more.

Why Buyers Like This Heated Cat House

Buyers rate this 4.5 out of 5 stars overall on Walmart’s website. In other words, 89% of reviewers rated it 4 or 5 stars! They love that it’s easy to assemble and appreciate the spacious size. They do note that the heating pad only covers about half of the floor inside, but it does work great.

Check out the reviews:

• “These outdoor, heated homes are so critical for felines (and others) who are in the cold. We have purchased a number of these.”
• “Very big. Space for about 5-6 medium sized cats. I like this item a lot. And best part is that’s it’s heated and the outdoor cats have cozy space on those insanely cold nights.”
• “This is the 2nd one I have purchased. The 1st was for a stray cat that stayed in our yard but needed shelter. She is now our fur baby. That house is now out in her catio!”

This cat house comes with free shipping and free 90-day returns.

Related: Walmart’s Plush Foam Chair Is So Comfy, Dogs Claim It as Their Own

This weekend I was at my local pet supply store buying cat food, and they had adoptable kittens from an animal shelter. This is a dangerous situation for me. I have too many cats already, yet I immediately found myself thinking things like, “Well, I don’t have a solid black one yet,” and, “I don’t have a solid gray one either.”

I resisted, but then the Internet presented me with this ridiculously fluffy white Maine Coon kitten who looks like a cloud and marshmallow fluff somehow combined to make a cat. He even has enormous paws and icy blue jewel eyes. At this point I’m basically whining, “I WANT ONE,” while reminding myself that I absolutely do not need another cat.

@luxurycoonsfamily1

A special boy indeed! 🤍 #mainecoon

♬ original sound – luxurycoonsfamily1

The gorgeous clip was shared by the TikTok account @luxurycoonsfamily1, and it shows the fluffy little guy being held up by his cat mom.

The caption asks a very important question: “What would you name him?”

People had ideas.

“Caspar. After the little white ghost,” one person suggested.

Related: Calico Maine Coon Kitten’s Perfectly White Face Is Giving Powdered Donut

Another went with a name befitting his snowy white coat: “This one, Everest. He’s giving snowy vibes.”

Then someone noticed those incredible eyes and came up with an excellent old school reference.

“Frank! As in Frank Sinatra! They used to call him ‘Blue Eyes,’” they wrote.

“I’d call him Storm. He is gorgeous,” another person suggested.

But one viewer has clearly experienced the irresistible pull of a Maine Coon kitten before.

“Mine. I’d name him Mine.”

Correct.

How To Pick a Name For Your Kitten @audeftf

Welcome to the family 🥹🤍 #cats #cute #kitten #catvideo

♬ SOFT LOVE – EMPTY BOTTLE

Naming a kitten is one of those things that sounds easy until you’re staring at a tiny face and realizing this is what you’ll be yelling across your house for the next 15 or 20 years.

Appearance can be a great place to start. This little guy immediately inspires snowy names like Everest, Casper, Frost or Blizzard, while those striking blue eyes open up even more possibilities.

You can also wait and see what your kitten’s personality is like. Sometimes the perfect name becomes obvious after you’ve lived together for a few days.

Food names are always excellent, too, particularly for cats who already resemble food.

Personally, I don’t know how everyone overlooked Marshmallow.

Look at him.

Although I still think that last commenter may have landed on the perfect name.

Mine.

Unfortunately, that’s also exactly what I was thinking at the pet supply store this weekend, which is why I should probably not be allowed near any more adoptable kittens.

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Golden Retrievers have a very classic look. If you close your eyes and picture a Golden Retriever, you’re going to picture the same dog that millions of them look like. Typically, they don’t really deviate from their standard appearance.

One Golden Retriever did, though: he was born with super cool black dots all over him. People are wondering if he’s part Dalmatian, or maybe he’s just part chocolate chip cookie… Whatever he was, everyone can clearly see that he’s 100% perfect:

@berniethegoldenr

loving his ball since day one 🥹 #goldenretriever #puppylove #dogsofttiktok

♬ Little Bitty Pretty One – Thurston Harris & The Sharps

Bernie the Golden Retriever looks like a Golden and a Dalmatian had a baby, but they didn’t! This boy is a purebred Golden Retriever! He has dots on his face and bands of black around his body.

Bernie has something called a cellular somatic mutation. It happens at random: after conception, the DNA of certain cells changes. It’s not hereditary and doesn’t affect other cells in his body. In Bernie’s case, it gave him black spots.

Related: Golden Retriever Gets Put in ‘Face Jail’ and Becomes a Total Fashion Icon

I love that he looks like he rubbed himself up against a freshly painted wall. As he’s gotten older, his spots haven’t changed. Cellular somatic mutation isn’t like vitiligo, for example, which causes a change in pigment over time. When he was little, he was extra sweet:

@berniethegoldenr

Don’t let the face fool you 🐾 #newpuppy #goldenretriever #goldenretrieverlife #dogsoftiktok

♬ original sound – tuckerbudzyn

He’s only 6 months old now, but he’s already so big! The one thing I wish was different about Golden Retrievers is that I wish they stayed little forever! Golden Retriever puppy fluff is unmatched.

What Can Cellular Somatic Mutation Cause In Dogs?

Bernie is a happy, healthy boy. He’s growing just like he should be, and he loves to play with his sister, cling to his mom, and eat treats. He looks a little different; that’s all.

Cindy1975 / Getty Images

In many cases, cellular somatic mutations are harmless for dogs, leading to coat color changes. They’re not always super extreme: some dogs will only have a couple of dots.

However, there are some cases where cellular somatic mutations lead to cancer. Golden Retrievers are already prone to developing certain cancers, so if yours has this, just make sure you monitor them. You can feel for lumps at home, and regular vet checkups will help with early intervention if needed.

Luckily, Bernie is just fine. He has a really cool coat! Someone tell Alysa Liu that he’s stealing her look!

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

If you have a senior cat or dog, you know how tough it can be for them to still reach you on your bed or couch. A helpful set of pet stairs can make a real difference in improving your pet’s daily life, and making it easier to cuddle. The Home Depot has a low-priced and highly-rated set of stairs that double as storage for your pet’s favorite treats and toys, making them extra valuable to both of you!

The Trixie Velour Foldable 3-Step Pet Stairs with Storage are just $25 at The Home Depot. Their ideal for small dogs and cats, measuring 17.7 inches from the bottom to the top. Each step is 6 inches in height, allowing for a gentle, easy climb.

Each step comes with a carpet-lined, removable top. Just lift the top and you’ll reveal plenty of storage space for pet toys, blankets, treats, or whatever you prefer!

The lightweight stairs are designed to support up to 110 pounds, the manufacturer notes, and made 11 inches wide for stable footing. When not using them, you can even fold them flat for easy storage or portability.

The manufacturer notes that the “pet step’s frame is covered with velour plush for a luxurious feel and treads are lined with durable carpet for added traction.”

Trixie Velour Foldable 3-Step Pet Stairs with Storage for $25 at The Home Depot

Courtesy of The Home Depot

Shop it!

These steps only have 16 reviews so far, but they boast a total of 4.7 out of 5 stars overall. Everyone rated them either 4 or 5 stars.

Check out what they’re saying:

• “These steps are perfect. Easy to assemble and the storage is very convenient. I am ordering a second one.”
• “Just was I was looking for. More sturdy than I expected. Very easy to assemble and re-assemble as needed.”
• “I purchased this for my senior cat, because I noticed he was having a hard time, jumping up to the ledge where I feed him. They fit perfectly where they were intended.”

One buyer recommends using double-sided tape on the tops of the steps, to ensure they stay in place when walked on.

The Home Depot is offering free delivery on these stairs, and free in-store pickup where available. They also offer free and easy returns in store or online within 90 days of purchase.

Related: Home Depot’s Vintage Bird Bath Adds Timeless Elegance to Any Yard

Niall Harbison, founder of the Thailand animal rescue, Happy Doggo, tends to street dogs on a daily basis and sometimes encounters full litters of puppies. The animal advocate always goes the extra mile to make sure every dog in need gets the food and medical care they require.

Harbison recently encountered a mama dog with her 8 puppies and immediately knew they needed help.

View this post on Instagram

The Instagram video from @wearehappydoggo told the fur baby family’s story and how they were all in “rough shape”.

“Without help, they wouldn’t have survived much longer,” the on-screen text shared as Harbison’s team sprang into action to rescue the mother and her pups. “Mom gave everything she had left to keep them alive.”

The mama dog had tirelessly cared for her litter at the cost of her own health. Harbison brought all 9 canines to his medical clinic for treatment.

“We rushed them in to treat them and we hoped for a miracle,” the story continued.

Mom and Her Puppies Got the Best News

Harbison intended to keep the mom and her puppies at the Happy Doggo sanctuary, until the “most amazing thing happened” for this fur baby family.

“And then, the best possible outcome,” the on-screen text shared as the adorable canine family received much-needed nourishment. “A wonderful family opened their hearts to all 8 puppies and mom.”

The mama dog’s commitment to and love for her fur babies is a testament to a canine’s selfless maternal instinct.

“Everyone is safe, fed, and healing together,” the caption noted, with the on-screen text adding, “She never has to worry about her babies again.”

Related: Shelter’s ‘Longest Resident’ Dog Meets New Dad and It’s ‘Love at First Sight’

Harbison launched Happy Doggo in 2021. In addition to the sterilization and daily feeding of thousands of street dogs, he recently opened a full-service medical clinic in honor of his beloved Golden Retriever, Tina, and a retirement village for senior dogs.

Learn more about Happy Doggo or make a donation by visiting their website or social media accounts on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.

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There’s something comforting about a classic, neutral-colored cat. Ragdolls, for example, are usually a cream color. They’re so chic! However, while classic, neutral cats are comforting… There’s absolutely nothing better than a colorful kitten.

Just look at these stunning British Shorthair kittens: there aren’t any white ones at all. There are so many different colors that it seriously seems like they have one in every flavor:

@blueroi.ragdol.british

🐻🤎 Редки British Shorthair Cinnamon котенца! 🐱✨ Търсите уникално британско котенце? Нашите малки са отгледани с любов, социализирани и готови да станат част от вашето семейство. ❤️ ✅ Родословие ✅ Европейски паспорт ✅ Ваксини и микрочип ✅ Редки цветове Cinnamon и Cinnamon Bicolor 🌐 Посетете нашия сайт и разгледайте наличните котенца: https://britishcinnamonroicattery.eu/⁠� 📩 Свържете се с нас за повече информация! #BritishShorthair #BritishLonghair #CinnamonBritishShorthair #Cinnamon #BritishCinnamonRoiCattery

♬ Tiny Happy Tune – The Meme Factory

BlueRoi Ragdolls is based in Bulgaria, and they have both Ragdolls and British Shorthair kittens. The ones in this video are British Shorthairs! They have everything, from cinnamon brown to orange, blue, and even a few grey ones. I want to know how they managed to get them all to stay still like that!

To put a dozen kittens into a basket is a serious feat. Toward the end, they started spilling out, but that’s to be expected. Kittens can’t focus on one thing for more than a few seconds, it seems, and outside is so cool. They’re so little that this is likely one of their first times outside!

Related: Ragdoll Cat Gives Birth to a Sweet Litter of Ice Cream Scoops

That video was a little bit of a throwback. They’re older now, and unfortunately, they can’t fit the whole dozen into those baskets anymore. It’s one at a time in the baskets from now on, but they still look so precious:

@blueroi.ragdol.british

Little British princess 🤎🐾 4 months of cuteness 🐱✨ Tiny paws, big cinamon cutie 🍫🐱 Just being adorable 🥹 Little miss perfect 🤎 Those eyes! 👀🐾 Sweet little lady 🎀 Cuteness overload 🤎 Our little cinamon girl 🐱🍫

♬ The Cat’s Alibi – Kaito Mori

This is one of the kittens they’re going to be keeping: she’s 4 months old! She’s big already, but will probably double in size before she reaches full-grown. I can’t wait to see it! I hope they put her in another basket when she’s all grown up!

Common British Shorthair Colors

There were at least 4 coats in that first video we saw, and each was wildly different than any of the others. They were from separate litters. Would you believe me if I said 4 colors were really just the tip of the iceberg?

pipat wongsawang / Getty Images

Exactly how many coat variations there are for British Shorthairs will vary by organization. Typically, that number ranges from 30 to over 200 when you factor in every possible combination! Some of the most common are:

• Orange
• “British Blue”
• Cream
• Black
• Red (a slightly deeper orange hue)

No matter what color you get, you’re getting a cat who’s super social, energetic, and cuddly. They’ll take up a lot of your time, and if these kittens are any indication, a lot of your baskets!

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The morning after a long weekend can be a bummer, so here’s a hit of dopamine to vastly improve your mood. It’s pure delight and will have you seeing beavers in a very different, very adorable light.

In this video posted by a wildlife rehabilitator, an absolutely precious and ravenous baby beaver (a “kit”) is being fed through a syringe. The nipple isn’t doing the job, however, and when the woman pauses the feeding to switch it out, the baby loses its adorable little mind.

View this post on Instagram

Its demanding little squeals, coupled with the tiny grasping hands, are just too much for us to resist. Who knew kits were this cute? How do we get in on this? Viewers of this video are wondering the same things in the comments:

“I’ll never forgive my school counselors for not saying this was a career choice.”

“I took a serious wrong turn to law school when baby beaver feeder was an option.”

Others like this person can’t take the little creature’s desperation any longer, “Feed her more immediately, or else I’m calling the police.”

While the kit’s outspoken and assertive personality is amusing, it’s actually a sign of the critter’s intelligence. The creator of this clip even mentions that beavers can learn sign language!

Related: Broody Chicken Who ‘Doesn’t Know What She’s Brooding Over’ Is Hiding the Most Hilarious Surprise

Why We Believe Beavers Are So Intelligent

Probably the best example of why we assume beavers are very smart is this EarthSky story about a stalled ecological project near Prague.

In 2018 the Czech government set out to build a dam on a river to restore local ecosystems. The project then sat for seven years while the Military Forest Administration and the Vltava River Basin Authority worked through land ownership issues. In the meantime, a colony of eight beavers built the dam themselves out of stones, wood and mud — no permits, no budget, no equipment. The wetland they created has kept expanding since.

Jaroslav Obermajer, an officer of the Czech Nature and Landscape Protection Agency, said “Beavers always know best. The locations where dams are built are always perfectly chosen; even better than what we designed on paper.”

How beavers know to build dams and where to build them isn’t crystal clear, but what is evident is that these creatures have the knowledge and skills to do both. In her book Beaverland, Leila Philip points out that we don’t even know when beavers started building dams, let alone “how much intelligence, as opposed to instinct, is involved in that unique activity.” But their brains do devote unusually large areas to processing sensory information, which tracks for a creature that does much of its work by sound, touch, and smell in dark water.

What isn’t in question is what they pull off together. Three or four beavers, working as a unit, can roll a hundred-pound boulder into place. And Philip’s conclusion is the one that stays with me: “Perhaps, like ants and bees, they have a kind of intelligence that we as humans simply cannot fathom.”

Related: Mysterious Animal Attacking People in New Hampshire Has Everyone Puzzled: ‘Don’t Touch It!’

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If you’re looking for a minimalist, cute bird feeder that will be stylish and chic in your backyard, then you should check out this deal from Tractor Supply Co. The Royal Wing Mesh Modern Farmhouse Bird Feeder is just $22, and you’ll love watching birds gather to feed out of it.

This feeder has a trough-style platform that makes it easy for multiple birds to visit at the same time and enjoy a bite. It also boasts a larger capacity than many feeders, holding six pounds of bird seed. That means you don’t have to refill it as frequently.

This chic feeder has a modern farmhouse style that features a simple black roof, white siding, and black trimmed doors and windows. It’s a minimalist, mesh feeder that will look sleek in your yard.

The feeder is compatible with most types of seed and comes with an attached hanger, making it super simple to set up.

Royal Wing Mesh Modern Farmhouse Bird Feeder for $22 at Tractor Supply

Courtesy of Tractor Supply Co

Shop it!

This feeder measures 10 inches by 7.5 inches in size.

Why Buyers Recommend the Feeder

Buyers say the feeder is stylish, durable, and easy to use. So far it only has 12 reviews, but those reviews give it an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

One buyer writes: “Very durable and is easy to fill and hang. The deer have knocked it down twice and the feeder shows no signs of harm. Love it!! Looks great too!!”

“Great quality,” writes another customer. “It is (by) far the best bird feeder I have owned!”

A third buyer raves: “Since hanging this birdfeeder in our backyard, we have seen SO MANY cardinals – both male and female! There are other smaller birds that visit it as well – creating quite the birdwatching environment!”

Tractor Supply is offering fast shipping options on this feeder, or free in-store pickup where available.

Related: Tractor Supply’s Quaint Cabin Bird Feeder Adds Rustic Charm to Any Yard

Great Danes are huge, even as puppies. That’s probably why they have such big opinions from the moment they’re born! They like to have things their way, and when something isn’t going their way, they’ll let you know exactly how they feel about it.

This Great Dane puppy, for example, is just 16 weeks old. Even so, he’s already bigger than a lot of full-grown dogs, and he’s got grumbling down to a science. With his adorable black-and-white coat, he looks just like Snoopy with an attitude problem:

@kevinkaosgreatdane

Time to go home! #greatdane #dogmom #bigdog #puppy #harlequin

♬ original sound – kevinkaos

Kevin Kaos the Great Dane is just as his middle name suggests: chaotic. He has serious Snoopy energy: if you’re a true fan, you’ll know that Snoopy is not as nice as everyone makes him seem. He’s grumpy and will do whatever it takes to get what he wants, just like Kevin.

This was Kevin’s mom trying to pick him up from doggy daycare. He did not want to go home. Not because he didn’t love his mom, but because he was having too much fun! He wanted to stay with all of his new friends.

Related: Great Dane Is So Big He Makes a Dachshund Puppy Look Like an Ant

At 16 weeks old, Kevin has probably just finished his last round of vaccines: it’s officially safe to go out and meet new dogs! He can go wherever he’d like, and his mom knew he’d love it there. He’ll cause chaos anywhere, though. Even at the lake:

@kevinkaosgreatdane

Kevin’s first time at the lake! He loves to bite it! #greatdane #dogmom #bigdog #puppy #harlequin

♬ Playful Clarinet – Cedar House Museum

He looks very handsome in his life jacket, but I know he hated wearing it. Puppies hate doing anything that’s good for them, it’s just a fact. He’d much rather go into the water with no life jacket, drink some of it, and then get out.

Great Dane Puppies Need Training

All puppies need training, no matter what breed they are, but Great Dane puppies like Kevin are especially in need of rigorous training. He’s getting what he needs, though not without making sure his mom knows how he feels about it!

Cindy Dickerson / Getty Images

Great Danes can weigh over 100 pounds, and on their hind legs, they can be taller than grown men. They don’t always know their own size, and a poorly trained Great Dane can quickly become overwhelming. Some of the most important commands for a Great Dane puppy to learn early are:

• Recall: they need to know their own name and to come when called.
• Sit.
• Down.
• Leave it.

When a small dog jumps up on a human, it’s annoying. When a huge dog does it, it can be legitimately dangerous. Luckily, Kevin has it all under control, even if he is a little bit of a brat.

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You’ve probably seen your dog’s happy antics—their tail wags when you come home and them do their full-body happy dance. But dogs have so many emotional traits that make them incredible companions beyond their expected, much-loved greeting after a tough day. After all, human-dog bonds run deep.

“There’s a reason why dogs aren’t just members of our family is that they are also our best friends,” says Shir Limazati, CPDT- KA, a trainer with Another Chance Training. “While they may not experience or express emotions exactly as humans do, dogs absolutely communicate how they feel, recognize our emotions and build incredibly deep bonds with the people they love.”

As a trainer, Limazati sees first-hand how these emotional attachments make dogs wonderful buddies for humans. To her, these canine traits remind her that some of life’s best relationships don’t require words. It’s about the feelings.

“Our dog’s ability to connect with us, comfort us and celebrate simple moments with us even when we are struggling, without even saying one word is what makes our relationship with them so extraordinary,” Limazati says. “They are the definition of a human’s best friend.”

But what dog personality traits stand out among the most loyal dogs? To find out, keep reading! You may be surprised by a few!

Related: 7 Hilarious Signs Your Dog is Loving Life, According to a Trainer

5 Emotional Canine Traits That Make Dogs Incredible Companions A happy dog that likes being close to its pet parent.

Getty Images beavera

Why are dogs such incredible companions? It’s a long story. Put simply, dogs love people deeply, and they show it through big and small emotional displays. These displays are ingrained and come naturally to many dogs. But because we spreak different languages sometimes we aren’t sure. Below explerts explain what dog behaviors best friend dogs have, so as a pet parent, you’ll be able to nurture them.

1. They have strong social skills

There’s no doubt about it, if your pup thrives when they are around others, they were born to be a companion dog. Limazati says dogs with strong social skills greet other humans calmly, with enough curiosity and respect for boundaries. Though, that doesn’t mean they want to act like best friends with every person or dog they cross paths with. Instead, these canines are socially aware dogs and known as “environmentally neutral.”

“An environmentally neutral dog trusts their owner explicitly and knows when to disengage, seek space or look to their person for guidance,” says Bridget Murphy, the CEO of Koru K9 Dog Training. “Their ability to build trust and adjust to the individuals around them is a major part of what makes dogs such meaningful companions.”

Limazati points out that dogs are naturally social creatures. Still, she emphasizes that strong social skills are learned through positive experiences, guidance and confidence-building, like training and sweet interactions with their favorite human (you).

2. They have the ability to show empathy when their human is feeling down

Do dogs know when we’re sad or have had a bad day? Limazati says many do, so don’t be surprised if your furry family member gets extra snuggly, gently licks you, or follows you around more when you’re not in the best spirits. That’s just one of the emotional traits of devoted dogs and why they are amazing furry sidekicks to have.

“Dogs are the experts when it comes to recognizing changes in their humans’ emotions and behavior,” Limazati says. “Though they may not always understand what is happening, they can recognize shifts in our tone of voice. They also pick up changes in our routines quickly, and they notice changes to our scent, which happens when we express certain hormones that are present when we are stressed, sad, or simply not feeling well.”

Your dog loves you no matter what and they’re happy show empathy and lend a paw to you when you need them. It just goes to shows the strong attachment they can have for a person they care for.

“These moments are what strengthen the bond between a human and their dog and can genuinely provide comfort in our most difficult times,” Limazati says.

3. They express joy

One of the things that makes dogs such a special part of our lives is how freely they share their happiness with us. They don’t need much to get excited, and they aren’t shy about letting you know when something has made their day.

Murphy says they’ll make it clear, and show signs so you should look for “a loose body, playful movement, a wagging tail, bringing over a toy or becoming excited when something familiar and positive is about to happen.” You know, when you give them a high-quality treat or come home with the coolest toy ever, and your dog knows it’s theirs before you put it on the floor.

Still, Murphy adores that dogs don’t set a high bar for joyful expressions.

“They also tend to find happiness in very ordinary moments. A walk, dinner, a favorite person coming home or time spent together can be enough,” Murphy says. “Their ability to enjoy simple experiences is one of the reasons living with dogs can feel so grounding. What a gift they give us by helping us to live in the moment.”

Related: If Your Dog Has These 5 Traits, They’re One of the Happiest Dogs Around, According to a Trainer

4. They read your body language

Like most friends, dogs also pay attention to you. In fact, Murphy says your dog is constantly watching you to gather information so they can get to know you better. It’s as if they prioritize you above everyone else because you matter so much to them. “They notice where you look, how quickly you approach, whether our body is tense and they even notice your subtle posture changes,” Murphy says.

It’s not “weird,” it’s a natural tactic.

“Dogs ‘speak’ in body language, so this is their primary ‘language,'” Murphy says. “This helps them predict what may happen next and respond to us. Many dogs know we are preparing to leave, take a walk or start a familiar routine before we say a word.”

Murphy stresses that it’s important to keep in mind that dogs are watching you and interpreting your body language.

“Clear and consistent communication matters so much,” she says. “Dogs are often responding to signals we do not realize we are giving.”

5. They show unconditional love

Perhaps one of the most special things about dogs is the way they make people feel loved, often without asking for anything in return. After that, that’s what friends are supposed to do, right?

Limazati says all dogs express affection differently, though. Some may lean against you. Others may check in when you’re in another room or look up at you during a walk, and some pups may constantly bring you toys. But there’s a common thread—or heart string, if you will: Dogs show unconditional love to those in their life who earn it.

“This is a bond that develops through trust, consistency and positive experiences shared over time,” Limazati points out. “It’s this deep connection that makes pet parents feel safe with and loved by our dogs. Even when you have a bad day or lose your cool, your dog is remarkably forgiving and ready to connect with you again. That’s what makes them extraordinary companions.”

Sources:

• Shir Limazati, CPDT- KA, a trainer with Another Chance Training
• Bridget Murphy, the CEO of Koru K9 Dog Training

Finding something unexpected at the thrift is one thing, and being blessed by the cat distribution system is another. But what happens when both things occur simultaneously?

Something, for lack of a better word, really, really good.

@emilypoemiller

😻 #goodwill #goodwillfind #goodwillfinds #kitten

♬ Circus Theme Silly Kazoo – Erik Vargas

Thrifter and reseller Emily Miller recently took to social media to share a kitten who had been abandonded at Miller’s local Goodwill. A manager of the store alerted Miller to the kitten’s presence, and she quickly went to assess the situation. What she found was a tiny, baby kitten who was so eager to be found and loved.

When Miller spoke to her husband, they both agreed that the little one was coming home. And bigger than that? They agreed they had the perfect name for her: Goody.

In the viral video, commenters gushed over the kitten’s sweet personality and eagerness to go home with Miller. We are also so happy she found a home and a happy ending after being abandonded at the donation site!

What to Do If You Find an Abandoned Kitten 5 kittens in a cage.

Mariia Zotova / Getty Images

While it can be tempting to swoop in and bring what appears to be an abandonded kitten, it’s actually very important to be more mindful and patient if you find yourself in this situation. Keeping the kitten out of danger and making sure its mother isn’t nearby looking for it is the first step. A kitten that appears healthy is likely being cared for by its mom, and that mama cat may need assessing and help, too.

If taking the kitten into your care, the first thing you should always do is make sure they are warm enough. Kittens can struggle to regulate their body temperatures, which can be very dangerous for them. It’s also important to take them to see a vet as soon as possible for an actual medical assessment.

Once you’ve consulted with a professional, at that point you can begin to acclimate the kitten to their new home. And hopefully begin a great life journey together!

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Related: Rare Maine Coon Kitten Looks Like the Perfect Bowl of Sherbet