Parade Pets

Now that the temperatures are heating up and we're all finally getting to enjoy some sunshine, that means that our pups are, too. With spring in full swing, we're all spending more time outdoors, which means we have a new opportunity to do different activities with our dogs... and for mine, that means playing with water! We live in the south, which means that we're already experiencing temperatures in the 80s and above, and my Boxer mix adores running in the sprinkler in the backyard to cool off. It turns her into a puppy all over again! 

The sprinkler isn't the only way for your dog to have fun and stay cool, though. And after seeing the joy coming from the dog in this video below, I think a lot of us are going to start shopping for backyard pools...

@gabbydamico308

To the creator who mentioned this purchase on Amazon… thank you! Shes so happy! #summervibes #chesapeakebayretriever #amazonfinds #amazonpool #klimbboard #dogswimming #fyp

♬ Marley and Me Ending - Amber Czarniecki

On Friday, April 26, @gabbydamico308 shared what happened when her dog, a Chesapeake Bay Retriever, got to play in a pool she set up for her at home. Has anyone ever been this happy to swim and splash around?! 

She's even trying to bite the water, which is so cute, and that tail just keeps wagging. She loves it so much! 

(And we aren't even going to talk about the audio from Marley & Me that's playing over the video, or some of us — me — are going to start crying.) 

From the looks of the comments, this dog and her mom are about to start a trend for this summer. One person wrote,  "my dog just sent me this." 

I think my dog set it to me, too! 

Backyard Pools for Dogs

This pool is fortunately available on Amazon, so if you want to grab one for your favorite water loving pooch, it's very easy.

It's called the Intex Rectangular Frame Above Ground Pool, and it's surprisingly affordable. The smallest size is under $100, though the price does increase a bit if you'd like it to be a little bigger. According to the listing, it takes less than 30 minutes to set up and be ready for water, and looks to be super simple to set up and take down.

And if you're worried about your dog's nails scratching the pool and putting a hole in it, the OP said in a comment on her video that she hadn't had that problem yet, but that the pool does come with patches in case that happens. 

If your dog loves water, this might be a great addition to their summer bucket list. Even dogs who aren't fans of bath time might just love being able to take a dip in the backyard whenever they want! 

Breed-specific dog meetups are one of life's simplest pleasures. They're usually free or very inexpensive to attend, and people legitimately form lifelong friendships sometimes! Nothing brings people together like their dogs and connecting over the love and knowledge they share for the breed.

As an outsider, you might look at a dog meetup and wish you could get in. Unfortunately, though, if you don't have that breed, there's a good chance you'll be turned away... unless you go undercover. On Sunday, April 28th, one pair of pugs did just that:

@sprinklestheweenie

Can’t quite put my finger on it tho #tampa #dachshundsoftiktok #weenie @Tobias & Winnie the Pugs

♬ Funny - Gold-Tiger

I can't stop laughing. Sprinkles the Weenie is definitely onto something, but at least she's being cool about it!

Related: Pug Prances Around NYC in a Reindeer Costume and Stops People in Their Tracks

The two Pugs that crashed this Tampa-based Dachshund meetup are actually influencers themselves! They're Tobias and Winnie, two Pugs who live in Florida and do whatever they want. The two of them like to battle together, which includes a lot of eating each other's faces. In their free-time, they love to make new friends, and what better place to find new puppy friends than at a doggy meetup?

Unfortunately, the only doggy meetup close by was for Dachshunds, which left them no choice but to get in disguise. There was only one way to blend in: getting some hotdog costumes. Luckily, it seems like their efforts worked fine: no one kicked them out and none of the other weenies cared!

If you want to do something like this with your dogs, you should always call ahead and make sure it's okay that your non-conforming dog can crash the party. Most of the time, it'll depend of the breed of the dog. For example, pugs are similar in size to Dachshunds, but a Husky dressed as a hotdog probably wouldn't have been allowed in. 

Where Does the Term 'Wiener Dog' Come From?

According to the American Kennel Club, it's actually not what we all think. Everyone says that the dog breed was nicknamed after the fact that their long bodies looked like hotdogs and sausages, but actually, that's not true. In fact, the dog came first, and a new kind of sausage called the "Dachshund Sausage" came out after. It resembled the dog, not the other way around!

Of course, they definitely do look like sausages, which is why you'll see so many of them dressed like hotdogs for Halloween. In reality, though, these dogs were bred to be hunters: their short, long bodies make them perfect to follow den-dwelling animals into the ground. Those short little legs can carry them up to 20mph for short distances!

Tobias and Winnie may not be Dachshunds, but they definitely had a good time. Hopefully, they can get to a pug meetup soon!

It can be scary just caring for brand new kittens, so I can only imagine how terrifying it must be to be one. Everything in the world is so much bigger than you, including other animals you might encounter — and how do you know if they're a friend or if they're stalking you as their prey? Imagine what a full grown dog must look like to a kitten! But when some dogs meet brand new kitties, many of them are simply curious about what's going on with their tiny new friends... and so excited that they can't stand it! 

For example: the dog in this viral TikTok video, who absolutely cannot wait to see the new kittens in his house. He knows something exciting is happening, and he needs to be a part of it! 

@catgue20

#kittens #kittensoftiktok #cats #catsoftiktok #foryou

♬ original sound - Catherine’s Hair Corner Salon

This precious footage was shared by @catgue20 on Sunday, April 28, and it's just too sweet. As soon as this Golden Retriever hears his mama say "let's go see the babies," he's jumping all around, doing happy little taps with his feet. He's so ready! 

He can barely contain himself at the door where the kittens are being kept, and as soon as it's open, he runs right over to the basket where they're all cuddling, right next to the kittens' proud mom, a beautiful Tortoiseshell cat, who just can't stop meowing as her human checks on the babies. 

Meanwhile, the dog's excitement isn't dampened at all — he seems so happy to be able to check on the kittens (who will no doubt become his playmates soon enough). 

Do Dogs Like Kittens?

As it turns out, it's not strange at all that this Golden Retriever is so excited about visiting his new kitten pals — according to one veterinary website, sometimes, dogs will be more accepting of new kittens in the house than another adult cat in the household will! 

If you've just welcomed a litter of kitties and are waiting for the right time to introduce your dog to them, there are a few things you can do to make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible.

At first, you'll want to put some distance between the kittens and the dog so they can check each other out by keeping the dog on their lead, since their early excitement can sometimes frighten the kittens.  You can loosen up restrictions when your pup is calmer around the kittens, little by little giving them more time and freedom to interact until everyone is BFFs. 

Here's hoping she shares more updates as the kittens get older and are strong enough to play with their big brother. It looks like this is just the start of a beautiful friendship for all of them! 

As everybody knows, Border Collies are possibly the smartest dogs on the planet. It takes a lot to keep them entertained, and if you don't do a good enough job, your home and your herd can suffer. It's important to get creative!

Well, there's a family that certainly tried to do that. On Sunday, April 28th, their son tried to get their Border Collie to "play Jenga," and it definitely went some type of way. You have to see it:

@tylerwrong

a boy and his dog #bordercollie #kids #jenga #dominoes

♬ Stuff We Did (from 'Up') - Piano Version - your movie soundtrack

Listen, at least @tylerwrong tried. Next, you should stack them like you would to actually play the game. Maybe she'd do better at it then!

Related: Border Collie Doing a Final Sweep of the Farm Before Sunset Is Too Cute

Their Border Collie's name is Rogue, and she lives in the house with several kids and a senior Alaskan Malamute. It's probably great for her: if ever there was a family that needed a herding dog, it's one with two kids and a Malamute! She's the best girl: she loves to fetch and find treats - and while she has some tricks, playing Jenga is apparently not one of them.

Though she seems mildly interested in the blocks themselves, she's more interested in pleasing the little boy who's trying to get her to play. Border Collies are independent dogs that can entertain themselves sometimes, but at heart, they really are people pleasers. It's what makes them such good workers!

Border Collies are Great with Kids

Border Collies are one of the most common breeds for herding, but they're also pretty common family dogs. They're loyal as anything, and they need a lot of time to run and play - if you have slightly older kids who also have tons of excess energy, it'll be like a match made in heaven. 

Kids are very creative, too: if you give them free rein to create an exercise for your Border Collie, they'll come up with something really cool! The only thing that might give you pause is if you have really young kids and a really young Border Collie: neither have learned boundaries yet, so it might be a little harder to manage. Luckily, both kids and this smart breed pick up new things quickly!

Having a good yard is more important than your family dynamic when it comes to having a Border Collie. This family has a pretty big yard, which gives Rogue lots of room for exercise. No matter how much training you do, pent up energy really can be a Border Collie's downfall!

Dogs don’t try to hold back their disappointment when we do something they aren’t pleased with. Some might resort to destructive measures, while others will employ the silent treatment. Both methods often prove to be highly effective.

This disgruntled Bulldog is so upset about taking a bath that he can’t even look directly at Mom. Instead, he’s giving her a hilarious dose of side-eye as if to state, ‘You’ve made a grave mistake.’

Check out this video from April 20 to see his big attitude!

@thezeusdiaries

silent treatment for the rest of the night for me🙃 #bulldog #bulldogsideeye #bulldoglooks #fyp

♬ original sound - Zeus⚡️💫

It’s a tough life for Zeus (@thezeusdiaries)! This handsome fellow is expressing dissatisfaction with his mom about getting cleaned up. He’s giving her the silent treatment, hoping she’ll realize her mistake and not repeat it. Even when she tries to clarify that it needed to be done because he was stinky, that isn’t enough to convince him. He seemed to be insulted at the notion of his odor. LOL! She’s the one at fault, not him, and his big, sad eyes tell his pitiful story. Hopefully, she could win him back with some of his favorite treats.

Related: Bulldog Brings the Drama When Dad Holds Mom's Hand Instead of Hers

Ways To Make Bath Time More Fun for Dogs

As a pet parent to a dog with allergies, I have to give one of my pups a 10-minute medicated bath twice a week to keep them under control. Although he is an exceptionally good boy, it took him some time to acclimate to this routine. Experts recommend getting them familiar with this space when the water isn’t turned on and making it a positive place by bringing their favorite toys or treats. I use special high-value treats that I only take out for baths. My boy likes them so much that when he hears me open the bag, he runs to the shower, sits, and waits to go inside. In addition, he gets lots of praise and affection while waiting for the time to elapse, and we have lots of fun drying off! It took some time, but the extra effort has paid off.

People came to Zeus’s defense. One viewer remarked, “He’s looking like you are the only one complaining about my natural perfume.” He clearly seemed to notice when she pointed out his smell. Viewer @Gabe responded, “I think they get proud of certain smells they pick up. Mine also hates how the rain messes up the outside smells.” That could be because it takes time to develop that unique aroma.

Even though this good boy might have been a little upset with his mom, it probably didn’t take him too long to forgive her. By the time dinner came along, all grievances should have been forgotten.

If there's one thing dogs are great at, it's making you feel terrible for having to leave the house. It does not matter where you're going or how long you'll be gone; the second that door shuts and you're on the other side of it, you're abandoning them for, allegedly, forever. 

One English Mastiff certainly agrees with that sentiment. On Sunday, April 28th, his dad didn't even go anywhere and he still thought he got left! What ensues is complete chaos, for real:

@diverdude77

#englishmastiff #mastiffsoftiktok #bigdogsmakebiggerbestfriends #Olliethemastiff

♬ original sound - SaC

I know in my own head that @diverdude77 didn't actually do anything wrong, but my heart is telling me that he better treat that sweet boy! 

Related: 200-Pound English Mastiff Happily Cuddles With New Kitten Sibling In Heartwarming Moment

The English Mastiff in this video is named Ollie, and he's a dramatic king at heart. A quick scroll through his dad's TikTok will show you that Ollie doesn't like not being the center of attention, but he does love to snuggle and is a lap dog at heart. Never mind the fact that he's probably pushing 200lbs!

He's only a few years old: they got him after his older brother, Vader, passed away. Many people grieve pets by getting new pets, and there's nothing wrong with that - Vader was also an English Mastiff, so it's not like they were unaware of what they were getting into. Luckily, Ollie has done well blending into their family. He's not a replacement, but he's kind and sweet anyway!

Do Dogs Really Think we Abandoned Them?

Anyone who has ever had a dog before knows that their reaction to you leaving and their reaction to you coming back will always, without fail, be one of the most dramatic things you'll ever see in your life. I went for a walk to Walgreens one time and my oldest Boston Terrier literally greeted me like I'd returned from the war after.

Studies have shown that dogs experience stress when we leave them, some more than others. Dogs seem to understand that we will return, but they don't know when, and they don't know how much time has elapsed. That's why your 30 minute journey to the local grocery store or your hours-long shopping trip will earn you the same greeting!

Don't get it twisted: just because the dog might know you're not abandoning it doesn't mean you leaving doesn't make it sad. Dogs have many different reactions to being left alone, though they typically calm down after about 30 minutes. If you're concerned about how your dog reacts to being left alone, you can get a pet camera to watch. Separation anxiety is never fun, but it does apparently make for a good song!

Traveling with pets can be quite an ordeal, especially since cats and dogs don't typically enjoy road trips or flights as much as we'd like them to. It can't be fun being stuck in small quarters for a long period of time, not to mention the fact that unfamiliar surroundings can be very stressful for a lot of animals. But then, there are the pro travelers, who are on and off planes with their humans all the time like it's no big deal — with enough practice, they can easily become our favorite four-legged jet setters! 

That includes the senior cat who celebrated 50 flights recently, and his mom shared the sweet gesture that the airline did for him to celebrate. This is so sweet! 

@kmart702

19 years young ✈️ #fypシ゚viral #catsoftiktok

♬ original sound - Kris

In this video shared by @kmart702, a gray cat named Church, who is now 19 years old, was celebrated for his milestone flight with a shout out from the cabin crew after takeoff. 

We can hear the full announcement in the video, which says, "We also want to extend an extra special happy birthday to our little feline friend, Church. This is Church's fiftieth flight today, he is 19 years old! Happy birthday, Church. We hope you live a long, happy kitty life." 

That's just too cute — and with all the "aww"-ing going on in the background, it seems like everyone else on the plane feels the same way! 

And as it turns out, this senior cat has actually traveled even more than that, because his mom wrote in a comment that number is just an estimate. 

"We are way over 50 bc most of our flights have connections each way from west coast to east coast. I told the steward he has flown over 50+ flights. It’s more near 80 I would estimate," she said. 

Wow! 

More About Church the Cat

Elsewhere on Church's mom's TikTok account, you can see plenty of his adventures. He's one lucky cat — and well traveled, too.

In one video, he's watching people hang glide, and in multiple others, he's exploring the beach. Not all cats do as well on a leash as Church does, but it's obvious that he's a special kitty. 

He's also very well loved. Another video shows his birthday party last year, complete with a cake and decorations. Wonder if they're planning a similar celebration now that he's turning 19? 

Church and his mom seem very lucky to have each other, and with so much travel under their belts, there's no doubt they have made so many memories with each other over the past 50 flight and beyond. 

When you first get a puppy, you can’t help but fall in love with them. They instantly capture your heart with their adorable personality and all-around cuteness. Though, when it comes to choosing the pawfect name for your furbaby, the immediate decision isn’t always there. In fact, figuring out what you’re going to call your pet can be one of the trickiest decisions you’ll have to make because whatever you end up going with will be with them for forever, so you want to pick something that’s special and truly captures who they are. Speaking of, Parade has pulled together some of the best black dog names for you to consider.

One way to easily nail down a name is to use your pet’s appearance as inspiration. So, no matter if you’ve adopted a dark-coated dog from a local shelter, or you’re welcoming a brand new black and white pup into your family, you'll be sure to find some options here that you’ll L-O-V-E. We included girl and boy monikers, cute names and even unique and unusual ones. That way, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Check out all the sweet black dog names we compiled, below! Once you do, you’ll no longer feel stressed about the topic. Instead, you’ll feel excited and giddy knowing you’ve found the right one for your pet. Happy naming!

Related: Get Ready To Say ‘Awww!’ These 50 Cute Animals Are the Most Adorable Creatures in the Entire World

205 Best Black Dog Names

Canva

1. Ash

2. Jet

3. Bear

4. Hershey

5. Midnight

6. Opal

7. Indigo

8. Storm

9. Shadow

10. Carbon

11. Charcoal

Related: Here's the List We've All Been Waiting For: 30 Cutest Dog Breeds of All Time

Female Black Dog Names

Canva

12. Velvet

13. Bailey

14. Rebel

15. Rio

16. Smudge

17. Spark

18. Buttons

19. Sable

20. Zara

21. Blue

22. Oakley

23. Winnie

24. Roo

25. Ebony

26. Zoey

27. Piper

28. Scout

29. Obsidian

30. Luna

31. Violet

32. Jade

Related: 25 Popular Teacup Dogs if You're Looking for a Super Cute Tiny Dog

Male Black Dog Names

Canva

33. Elvis

34. Ink

35. Knight

36. Metallica

37. Matches

38. Koda

39. Diesel

40. Flint

41. Razor

42. Buddy

43. Bernie

44. Tank

45. Bandit

46. Boomer

Related: 311 Sweet Pet Quotes About the Fur-ever Love Between You and Your Best Little Buddy

Canva

47. Ninja

48. Boots

49. Rex

50. Dakota

51. Jasper

52. Ozzy

53. Kobe

54. Nyx

55. Neo

56. Starling

57. Buzz

58. Duke

59. Milo

60. Berry

61. Navy

62. Slate

63. Bruno

64. Ace

65. Hunter

66. Cash

67. Ziggy

Related: 75 of the Doggone Best Dog Jokes That'll Have You Barking With Laughter

Food-Inspired Black Dog Names

68. Cookie

69. Mousse

70. Java

71. Blackberry

72. Licorice

73. Chocolate

74. Coffee

75. Beans

76. Cupcake

77. Cocoa

78. Sundae

79. Pepper

80. Truffles

81. Fig

82. Olive

83. Pudding

84. Starbucks

85. Chip

86. Espresso

87. Cola

88. Cappuccino

89. Cocoa Puff

90. Brownie

91. Kit-Kat

92. Fudge

93. Taco

Related: 20 Gorgeously Purr-Fect Black Cat Breeds That You Can Love Fur-Ever and Ever

Nature-Inspired Black Dog Names

94. Eclipse

95. Granite

96. Raven

97. Clay

98. Cosmo

99. Moon

100. Aurora

101. Star

102. Astrid

103. Ant

104. Cloud

105. Thunder

106. Ocean

107. Dusky

108. Lead

109. Rocky

110. Everest

111. Forest

112. River

113. Sky

114. Spruce

115. Bay

116. Cliff

117. Fern

118. Reed

119. Rye

120. Aspen

121. Cedar

122. Cypress

123. Maple

Related: Anything Is Paw-sible With These 50 Funny Dog Puns Sure To Leave You Howling

124. Willow

125. Spruce

126. Woody

127. Birdie

128. Wolf

129. Wren

130. Delta

131. Banks

132. Lava

133. Breeze

134. Windy

135. Clover

136. Pebbles

137. Buck

Black Dog Names Inspired by Famous Characters

138. Hercules

139. Gatsby

140. Zorro

141. Zelda

142. Buffy

143. Vader

144. Yoda

145. Spock

146. Thor

147. Loki

148. Katniss

149. Mickey

150. Wednesday

151. Toto

152. Minnie

153. Batman

154. Meeko

155. Bolt

Related: 300 of the Most Adorable Disney-Inspired Dog Name Ideas for Your Pooch

Magic-Inspired Black Dog Names

156. Salem

157. Hocus

158. Merlin

159. Spirit

160. Dumbledore

161. Wizard

162. Mystic

163. Sage

164. Hedwig

165. Sabina

166. Maleficent

167. Enchantra

168. Oz

169. Merryweather

170. Spell

171. Draco

172. Tarot

173. Wonder

174. Magic

175. Charm

176. Hex

Related: 300 Cool Dog Names for Males and Females with Meanings

Black and White Dog Names

177. Puffin

178. Barcode

179. Puzzle

180. Dotti

181. Dice

182. Tuxedo

183. Freckles

184. Zebra

185. Panda

186. Checkers

187. Snoopy

188. Ying Yang

189. Spec

190. Spade

191. Oreo

192. Patches

193. Marble

194. Spot

195. Domino

196. Splatter

197. Pongo

198. Peppermint Patty

199. Sprinkles

200. Dot

201. Speckles

202. Skunky

203. Polka dot

204. Ombre

205. Kaleidoscope

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A small stray dog had a chance encounter that completely changed their life. The little dog went from unhoused to a sitcom superstar.

On April 25, 2024, People shared the story of a small dog named Noelle who had a pivot in her life she probably didn't see coming. Here's what happened.

View the original article to see embedded media.

The amazing story of Noelle is told to the magazine through her human, Jubel Chen, who first met the sweet stray dog when she was wandering around Los Angeles.

Related: Apartment Building with 'Pooch Pods' Next to Work Stations Takes Dog-Friendly to New Heights

According to the reporting, Jubel was in LA working on a movie in 2017, where she works as an animal trainer for movies, when someone asked if that random dog they found was one of theirs.

The "skittish, scruffy dog" wasn't one of theirs, but Jubel told the publication that she said they would take the scared dog to see if they could help find where she was supposed to be.

Jubel and her co-workers put out flyers and took the small dog to a local veterinarian to see if there was a microchip that would provide more details on where she was supposed to be.

According to People, no leads were obtained from any of their attempts to find where this small dog was supposed to be.

Noelle Finally Found Her Forever Home, and a Calling Too

"After spending weeks searching for Noelle's family, Jubel found that the little pup had 'kind of grew on' her, especially with "her little face" and 'grandpa eyebrows,'" People reports.

So, after all that, Jubel decided she would officially adopt the dog, and help her feel comfortable with her before she decided if she would be great addition to the dogs she worked with for her job.

"She took a little bit because she was kind of skittish," Jubel told People. "She was a little worried about things," but with spending so much time with Noelle, Jubel thought: "She's too cute not to be in the business. It took her about six months before she was like, okay, I think you can do this."

Noelle took to the business like no one's business, starring in several commercials and big TV shows like Modern Family and Reboot, per People.

Now, she's hit the big game and her biggest role yet, starring in Lopez vs Lopez. In the show, Noelle plays the family dog Churro, and she's proven herself to be really easy to work with. And a delight to have on set.

Now, it's been six years since Jubel met Noelle and made her a part of her life. And the sweet pup has grown so much.

"She's gotten super confident and is not scared of strangers. She'll walk up to people and wag her tail," Jubel told People.

Jubel is hopeful that reading about Noelle's story will encourage others to "give rescue animals a chance," People writes. And that people will understand that sometimes a dog just needs some time and patience to really open up.

"All the animals at shelters and rescues need some time and socialization," Jubel shares. "Have patience with them, and they turn out to be amazing pets. They feel it, and they will give it back to you. I feel that with all of my animals. If you treat them well, they will be super grateful."

Noelle, we're so happy you found your calling!

The Dever Zoo is celebrating the birth of a 2-Toed Sloth and shared the first photos, which are absolutely precious.

On April 23, 2024, the Denver Zoo took to social media to share the great news and a few more details. Take a look!

Posting to the Denver Zoo Facebook page, we learn a little more about the new baby, including the proud new parents.

Related: Baby Sloth Makes Playful 'Meeps' While Climbing a Rope for a Snack

"New baby alert! We’re delighted to share that our Linne’s two-toed sloth pup made its debut on Friday, April 19," the zoo wrote.

The proud parents are Charlotte and Elliot, and this latest pup joins their already large family.

"This is Charlotte and Elliot’s fourth baby here at Denver Zoo and this healthy birth is a huge conservation win for the slow-moving species," the zoo wrote!

The zookeepers are taking great care of both mama and baby.

"A recent neonate exam confirmed that Charlotte and her adorable new baby are thriving in their Tropical Discovery home," the zoo shared. "And that this little one is strong, heathy and nursing like a pro."

Although the two are bonding and getting to know each other, visitors to the zoo might still be able to see Charlotte and her baby.

"Charlotte has access to the public-facing part of her treetop habitat, so you may be able to catch a glimpse of mama and her tiny bundle during your next visit the Zoo!"

While the care team has been able to keep an eye on the health of mama nd baby, they don't know the little one's sex yet, and they won't for some time.

"A DNA test is needed to determine the sex of this new arrival," the zoo explained, adding "we’re also still deciding on the baby’s name, so be sure to stay tuned for updates!"

The comment section is filled with people sharing their feelings about the little one's arrival.

"That is my birthday and I love the sloths," one person wrote.

"Oh my heart! Welcome to the world sweet baby and congratulations to Mama Charlotte!" another shared.

"Congratulations to the Denver Zoo taking part in conservation work in keeping species alive!" wrote another.

"Why are baby sloths so cute?" questioned someone else.

"Yay! Congratulations to my two favorite sloths," another commented. "Such exciting news! Love this."

Interesting Facts About Sloth Families

According to the Sloth Conservation Foundation, there are a lot of interesting things to learn about baby sloths.

"A baby sloth is fully reliant on its mother to teach it how to survive in the canopy of the rainforest," the foundation explains. "They are fragile yet fascinating little creatures, and here you can learn everything you ever wanted to know about baby sloths!"

When a sloth is pregnant, they gestate for around 11-and-a-half months. "When it’s time to give birth, the mother will usually descend to the lower canopy branches and give birth while hanging upside down," they explain. "In this position, if the baby falls to the ground, it won’t fall far, and the mother can climb down to retrieve her young."

When a baby is born, it instinctively clings to its mother's fur and crawls up to the safety of her chest. According to the Conservation Foundation, the mother then cleans up the baby.

The mama sloth then spends approximately 12 months raising her baby alone as the dad sloth doesn't care for their young at all.

While growing, the baby sloth spends most of its time on its mom's chest. Sometimes, it crawls to her back, but not often.

"As the baby grows, it will begin to move around more and will often take this opportunity to explore what is going on around Mom," the Sloth Conservation Foundation explains.

"At first, this will be reaching out to grab different leaves and branches with two or three limbs, still maintaining a connection with mom, but as the baby slowly gains confidence (and becomes too heavy for mom to carry), they will spend an increasing amount of time next to mom, rather than clinging to her."

We're excited to watch this little one grow!

For weeks, the Cincinnati Zoo has encouraged people to select a name for their baby Bat-Eared Fox.

Now, the votes have been tallied, and a winning name has been selected. Take a look!

Thank you for all the awesome name suggestions! Meet Kalahari (Kal). Bat-eared foxes are native to the Kalahari desert, so the name was ear-resistible! pic.twitter.com/4lshUUzJdf

— Cincinnati Zoo (@CincinnatiZoo) April 24, 2024

On April 24, 2024, the Cincinnati Zoo shared on social media that they've given their Bat-Eared Fox, and it's so perfect.

Related: 10-Week-Old Ragdoll Kittens Take Their First Bath and It’s Too Cute for Words

"Thank you for all the awesome name suggestions," the zoo shared across their social media channels.

"Meet Kalahari (Kal)," the zoo annoucned. "Bat-Eared Foxes are native to the Kalahari desert, so the name was ear-resistible."

Along with the name announcement, the zoo shared four adorable photos of the baby Bat-Eared Fox, who is so small he fits in the zoo keeper's hand.

Over the next few days, the zoo shared more photos, videos, and updates on Kal.

Baby bat-eared fox dreams 💫 💤 pic.twitter.com/iz2GrW5rmt

— Cincinnati Zoo (@CincinnatiZoo) April 26, 2024

In one update posted on April 26, 2024, the baby cub was taking a much-needed nap. He peacefully slept on his back while his little leg twitched from his dream.

Another update was a photo of the little guy, who is growing so fast. This time, he was enjoying milk from a syringe while standing up on his legs.

"Lunchtime with Kal, the Bat-Eared fox," the zoo shared. "Those legs!"

Learn More About Bat-Eared Foxes

According to the San Diego Zoo, Bat-Eared Foxes are known for their big ears, which seem way too large for their heads and faces. They're over five inches tall and help the little ones hear and regulate their temperature for cold nights and hot days.

These animals live up to 13 years in the care of a zookeeper, and their lifespan is unknown in the wild.

The male foxes are called "dogs," while the females are called "vixens." The babies are referred to as "kits" or "pups," and each litter can have up to 6 babies after a 60-75-day pregnancy.

"A Bat-Eared Fox clan is a lesson in teamwork. The mother gives birth to up to six babies, called kits. About the size of domestic kittens, fox kits look a lot like Chihuahua pups but with much larger ears!" the San Diego Zoo shares. "The pups start to emerge from the den when 8 to 12 days old. Often, one or two of the smaller kits die in the first three weeks."

The zoo explains that moms nurse their babies for 10 to 15 weeks, and the dad brings food to the pups. "The young are fully grown by the time they're six months old, and females can reach their first breeding period at 18 months," the zoo explains.

We love the name Kalahari!

Have you noticed your dog has a particular way of getting comfortable sitting on the couch or lying in bed? My dogs definitely do, and sometimes it seems like they take forever to finally lie down. And when they need to snuggle under a blanket, it becomes even more complicated.

This cute Dachshund is an expert at settling in, and his process has three stages. In a video shared on April 18, you can watch this adorable pup undergo his extensive procedures.

@threelongdogs

Getting comfortable in 3 easy steps 😴 #dachshund #dogsoftiktok #dog #dachshundsoftiktok #sausagedog #weinerdog #miniaturedachshund #fyp #doxielife #love #cute #puppylove #2024 #puppytiktok #smalldogsoftiktok #dogsoftiktokviral #dachshundlove

♬ The Funny Bassoon - Eitan Epstein Music

As someone who's always had large dogs, I was surprised when I saw my first small dog snuggling under the blankets. Now, I understand that this is a crucial part of their process. If things aren't in perfect alignment, they can't relax. That's why this charming Dachshund (@threelongdogs) has a unique three-stage process for making his bed just right, and it's precious!

Related: Dachshund's Funny Way of Begging to Get in Mom's Bed Is So Endearing

3 Steps Needed for a Dachshund to Get Comfortable

1. Flatten the blanket. Before climbing under, it's essential to flatten the blanket first. All those extra stomps also help tire you out.
   
   
2. Get underneath. Once it has been flattened sufficiently, it's time to go under.
   
   
3. Spin until you are tightly wrapped. To ensure you're all snuggled in, spin enough times to bring the blanket tightly around you. Now it's time to nap. Unless, of course, there's a slight noise and something to bark at.

Why Do Dogs Like Burrowing in Blankets?

The AKC tells us that pups with short fur might climb under the covers to stay warm on a cool day, just like we do. For some, it can also be part of their instincts, and being underneath these blankets can make them feel like they're sleeping in a den. Dogs with anxiety can also feel more secure and protected when they are snuggled underneath. This is especially true if there are loud noises like fireworks or thunder and lightning coming from outside.

Parents were familiar with these vital steps. Viewer @chriskassarjian responded, "I love when they wake up and can't figure out how to get out." I go through that crisis almost every morning with one of mine. Viewer @JackieAndres remarked, "Oh, you don't have a digger? Mine digs for 15 minutes before the final lay down." That is another popular move. Viewer @juliekratz responded, "The rule in my house is to yell before you sit with throw blankets and wait to see which one's move." It's always important to put safety first.

It's hard to imagine our dogs fending for themselves out in the wild. How did they ever survive without gourmet food, plush beds, and soft blankets?

When we bring a new pet home, their unexpected personalities often surprise us. Sometimes, our new dogs may show fear in certain situations. On other occasions, they may enjoy things we didn't expect. This experience is a learning curve for both the pet and the parent.

Yet, we often overlook the fact that our pets also have their perceptions of us. Just as we strive to understand them, they, too, must come to terms with our human ways. It's crucial to acknowledge that this experience may not always be positive for them.

This Goldendoodle's funny list shared on April 15 highlights these issues.

@kevinthegroodle

On a pawsitive note: my mum always lets me bring at least 2 big sticks home on our walks 🥰 #goldendoodle #goldenretrieverlife #goldenretriever #poodle #groodlepuppy #dogsoftiktok #fyp #viral #tiktokdog #puppytiktok #puppy #groodle #goldendoodlesoftiktok #foryou #dog #viraldog #goldendoodlepuppy

♬ original sound - 🥭 Mango 🥭

We rarely stop to think about what it's like for a dog to be chosen by us. Perhaps when they pictured getting their human, we weren't exactly what they had in mind. Kevin @kevinthegroodle points out this valid consideration. Thankfully, it always seems to work out for the best, even if they must also accept our quirks.

Related: Golden Doodle’s First Zoomies in His New House Are Too Cute To Handle

Ways Dogs Have Had to Learn to Live With Humans

1. We give them no personal space. As seen here with Dad hugging and kissing him, we like to get a lot of love from our fur children.
   
   
2. Humans are emotionally unstable. It can be unsettling for a dog whose human is having a mental breakdown every other day, leaving them to question why we may have gotten a dog instead of a therapist. Ha! 
   
   
3. Humans don't hesitate to body shame or gaslight. Although we might tell them they can't have a treat because they are overweight, we eat all day long without sharing our tasty morsels. Kevin tells us that although he may be colorblind, he is familiar with red flags. Lol!

Thankfully, there are also bright spots in Kevin's day with his family. He notes that while mom might not share her food, she lets him bring at least two sticks home when they are out on a walk.

Ways to Make It Easier for Dogs to Adjust to a New Human

One of the most important aspects of bringing a dog home is giving them time to adjust to their new environment. Unknown sights and smells can be overwhelming, so allowing them a space where they can retreat on their own can be beneficial. Establishing a routine so they know what to expect and providing them with plenty of exercise can also help make these transitions easier.

I believe the only reason my two pooches tolerate us is because we take them for walks and car rides. That's why I also sometimes give them a buttered noodle to ensure they won't abandon us and try to find better parents if they ever get the chance.

It’s nearly impossible to stay mad at our dogs, even when they’re up to no good. With a wag of their tail and a tilted head, they can charm their way out of any situation. And they’re not afraid to use their powers of persuasion.

Despite being caught red-pawed, this adorable Bulldog confidently believes she can get away with the crime. Even under interrogation, she remained calm, cool, and collected.

Watches winning defense in a video shared on April 19:

@longshotrx

#bubblesthebulldog #lifeaccordingtobubbles #bubblyboo #americanbulldog #sorrynotsorry

♬ original sound - Bubbles The Bulldog

Bubbles the Bulldog (@longshotrx) wasn’t trying to hide her crime. When her dad inquired, “Just out of curiosity, is that your leash you’re chewing up?” She pauses. Without legal representation, she’s not making any comments. She knows her rights, and she is going to use them. Even upon further questioning, she remains stoic, only moving her beautiful eyes up and down ever so slightly. When Dad asks again if she has any comments, she moves her head away from the leash and buries it in a blanket. Lol! 

She takes a deep breath and lets out a sigh, continuing to ignore her father when he repeatedly calls her name. What a character! This good girl isn’t admitting to anything without her attorney present. Apparently, she has watched enough crime TV to know if he says just one thing; they can use it to convict her in court. She's no fool!

Related: American Bulldog's Cute 'Break' While Running Up Sand Dune Is All Too Relatable

Why Do Dogs Chew Things They Shouldn’t?

Sometimes, dogs chew because something tastes or feels good in their mouth. Even if they know they shouldn’t, these textures and flavors can be hard to resist, as chewing is an instinct for them. Other times, dogs might chew destructively out of stress or frustration. This can also occur if they need more exercise or mental stimulation. It’s essential to never punish a dog for this behavior but rather provide them with toys or bones they should be gnawing on instead.

People quickly came to this good girl’s defense. Viewer @Previous_Leon remarked, “Look, I made some mistakes. You made some mistakes. Let’s not dwell on it.” That sums it up perfectly. Viewer @A.j.Gill responded, “Lol. Bubbles choose to plead the Fifth.” That she did. Viewer @EmilyP pointed out, “The sass is palpable and comparable to that of a teen girl!” That’s a great comparison, and it sure is!

Even though Bubbles may have been in a defiant mood, it’s hard to be upset with a face as cute as hers. This may be something she understands, and it’s why she doesn’t hesitate to live on the wild side sometimes.

Prince William was on an official engagement when he unexpectedly opened up about his children's family pet.

On April 25, 2024, Prince William talked about his family pets and confessed that he has to take on a chore his kids often forget. Take a look!

Prince William said he was so happy stroking Snowflake the guinea pig at Woodgate Valley Urban Farm, just outside Birmingham, that he didn’t want to leave. He revealed that his kids always forget to clean out their own guinea pig, leaving him to do it 🥬 pic.twitter.com/yccwgD8iWV

— Victoria Ward (@victoria_ward) April 25, 2024

The Prince of Wales visited Woodgate Valley Urban Farm, where he was able to hold a Guinea Pig named Snowflake.

Related: Guinea Pig Doing ‘Morse Code’ in His Water Bowl Is a Little Genius

Victoria Ward posted a clip of Prince William's visit on X. In the clip, we learn an unexpected fact about the royal kids: 10-year-old Prince George, 8-year-old Princess Charlotte, and 6-year-old Louis.

"Prince William said he was so happy stroking Snowflake, the guinea pig at Woodgate Valley Urban Farm, just outside Birmingham, that he didn’t want to leave. He revealed that his kids always forget to clean out their own guinea pig, leaving him to do it," Victoria wrote in her X share.

Cleaning out the Guinea Pig's living space is a task that needs to be done often. And it's funny that even Prince William has to step in for his kids once in a while when they forget. Kids will be kids—even royal ones. 

How to Care for a Guinea Pig

According to the Animal Humane Society, Guinea Pigs don't need a lot of work, but they can't be ignored either.

The site explains, "Described as cuddly and comical, guinea pigs love to vocalize with squeals, chirps, squeaks, and whistles. They make wonderful pets for children and can be very social animals."

Guinea Pigs are low-lift pets because you don't have to do a whole lot for them. They don't need to be walked or brushed, routine vaccinations aren't necessary, and they can take care of their fur for the most part.

But there are still some important tips for grooming and handling these little animals. 

Guinea Pigs should receive routine bathing, combing, ear cleaning, and toenail trimming. They should be spayed or neutered, and you should be aware of signs that your Guinea Pig might have a vitamin C deficiency.

The Animal Humane Society says that Guinea Pigs "require vitamin C on a daily basis," so if you're going to have one of these cuties as a pet, you need to be aware of this care task. 

The vitamin C drops can either be added to his food or given to him directly with a subcutaneous injection.

"he recommended dosage is 30 mg/day for an average adult. Liquid C, a human supplement sold at most health and nutrition stores, is a pleasant tasting liquid and is easy to administer.

There are several vitamin D drops, but it's important to check with your doctor for your Guinea Pig's unique needs.

A cat who was accidentally shipped with an Amazon return box from Utah to California and back has been reunited with family.

On April 24, 2024, KSL News reported on a story of a cat named Galena who traveled from Utah to California in an Amazon box. Here's what happened.

According to KSL News, cat mom Carrie Clark said her indoor-only cat disappeared on April 10.

Related: Family's Beloved Cat Back Home After Going Missing 2 Years Ago

The family jumped into action, looking around the house and the surrounding homes, and set "missing cat" photos around town and across social media.

"Galena is a huge emotional support to me and has helped me get through many health challenges over the past six years," Carrie told the news station."The anxiety and stress of not knowing what happened to her was excruciating."

After a week of not hearing anything or really having any leads on where Galena might be, Carrie received a text after Galena's microchip was scanned.  

The Lost Cat Was Found Because She Has a Microchip

The good news is Galena was found; the bad news is where she was found.

"We found out on Apr 17 that she jumped/hid in one of our Amazon packages without us knowing," Carrie shared in a lost and found group on Facebook. "Brace yourself… She was mailed to California and trapped in a box and trailer for six days."

Carrie shared that an Amazon worker "rescued her and took her to a vet, where they scanned her for a microchip." When they scanned the microchip, Carrie was notified via text.

"My husband and I jumped on a plane and headed straight to [California] to get her," Carrie explained! "We then traveled back to Utah together in a rental car. We made it home yesterday after traveling 1600 miles in 24 hrs to get our kitty back!"

Galena went through a pretty huge event, and the veterinarian evaluated her.  

"She miraculously survived without water and food for six days! Her bloodwork was completely normal," Carrie shared. "Despite being much skinnier, she is completely unharmed! We’re in awe of all the tender mercies that have taken place."

You Should Always Get Your Indoor Cat Microchipped

The reality of this situation with Galena is that if she was not microchipped, it's very unlikely that she would have been reunited with her mom. And that's the reason microchips are so important for indoor-only cats. 

PetMD explains: "If your cat goes missing, a registered microchip is the only way to ensure they can be easily identified by whoever finds them. When a stray cat is found and taken to a veterinary clinic, they’ll always be scanned for a microchip. The microchip’s identification number will lead back to you."

A microchip is far better than a collar and ID tag because those can be removed or fall off, which isn't something you need to worry about with a microchip.

We're so glad Galena was reunited with her family.

An 11-year-old gorilla at the Cincinnati Zoo receives a 3D-printed titanium cast after undergoing surgery for a broken arm.

The zoo shared an update on Gladys following her injury and surgery, and thanks to an innovative partnership, she's on a good road to recovery. Here's what happened.

On April 23, 2024, the Cincinnati Zoo shared details on the new cast they fitted for Gladys and the first-on-the-kind cast.

Related: Cincinnati Zoo Announces the Arrival of New Blue Duiker

The zoo shared in a press release, "The temporary cast that was placed on 11-year-old gorilla Gladys last week after she had surgery to repair her broken arm has been replaced by a model more likely to stand up to gorilla power."

GE Additive made the cast, which is the "world’s first 3D-printed titanium cast."

“She was pretty hard on the other cast,” Dr. Mike Wenninger, Cincinnati Zoo’s director of animal health, said. We’re hoping that this one will be more gorilla-proof.”

The cast took 65 hours to print, but it was delivered to the care team and ready for Gladys in under a week. According to the press release, it weighs 8 pounds, but it's designed to be really strong since it is for a gorilla.

"Before the titanium cast, we were very limited on the spaces Gladys could safely be in," Victoria McGee, Cincinnati Zoo’s zoological manager of primates shared. "With this addition, Gladys can “graduate” to additional behind-the-scenes spaces that will allow her to have more choice and exploration throughout the day.”

Gladys will need to wear the cast for approximately four weeks. For now, she's not in the same enclosure as her troop, but she is nearby, and this will be the case until her cast is off.

Gladys the Gorilla Broke Her Arm During a 'Scuffle'

Accoring to the Cincinnati Zoo, Gladys broke her arm in mid-April "during a scuffle with the younger two females in her troup."

The zoo shared that a scuffle like this isn't "unusual" and they considered this incident a "minor squabble."

But the caretakers think she must have "fallen in just the wrong way to break her arm." In the end, she ended up with a "complete, oblique fracture of her distal humerus."

The injury required surgery which was done with the help of experts including surgeons from Cincinnati Children's, since her fracture is a common break in kids, and anesthesiologists from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine to help ensure Gladys was comfortable during and after surgery.

"Zoo veterinarians and human surgeons are pleased with how the surgery went and optimistic that the screws and plates that were placed in Gladys’ elbow will hold the bone in the right position," the zoo shared.

We're wishing Gladys well on her continued recovery!

A sweet Lion cub at the Lincoln Park Zoo returns to his enclosure after a successful, unprecedented spinal surgery.

On April 23, 2024, Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago shared an update on the Lion cub named Lomelok. Here's what happened.

The Lincoln Zoo posted an update along with a few photos to Facebook, and it's great news for the Lion cub.

Related: Lion at Potawatomi Zoo in Indiana Has Strong Feelings About a 'Snazzy' Stuffed Toy

"After successful reintroductions to Pesho, Sidai and Pilipili in their indoor space, Lomelok’s care and veterinary teams have made the decision to allow intermittent yard access for all four youngsters starting today," the update read.

While Lomelok is back with his littermates, it's still important that he rest as much as he can.

"Lomelok will continue to need rest days as he builds his endurance," the zoo's notice explained. "So you will not always see the coalition of boys outside as his brothers may stay with him indoors as company."

As he continues to heal, Lomelok will continue to be closely monitored by the veterinary and care teams.

Fans were thrilled with the update, and many left comments and well wishes for Lomelok as he takes his next step in his journey.

"Awesome news!! Thank y'all at Lincoln Park Zoo for all the amazing work you do" one fan wrote.

"I was so excited when I saw all of them on the webcam," added another.

"Handsome brothers!" wrote another. "I love that Lomelok got to spend time with all three of his brothers. Thank you for the updates and doing an awesome job with Lomelok."

Lomelok's Spinal Surgery Was Successful

On March 5, 2024, the Lincoln Park Zoo shared an update that the planned spinal surgery for the one-year-old cub went as planned.

"When Lomelok began to walk at a few weeks of age in early 2023, the animal care team observed mobility issues, and the cub had radiographs taken," the zoo explained in a release.

After undergoing some tests, the Lion was diagnosed with "a narrowing of the channels that carry nerves from the spine out to his legs, also known as stenosis." The cub was born with this condition.

He was given medication to help with swelling and pain, but when an MRI found a slipped disc, in addition to the stenosis, paired with increased health decline, the decision was made to have him undergo surgery to address his slipped disc. According to the Chicago Sun-Times, the surgery has never been documented in a Lion cub around Lomelock's age, which "made the stakes much higher."

“It truly took a massive collaboration to complete this procedure, and we’re grateful to MedVet Chicago for collaborating with us on it,” Dr. Lester E. Fisher Director of Veterinary Services Dr. Kathryn Gamble shared. 

“Surgery was as successful as we could have hoped and now we turn our focus to the long road to recovery ahead of Lomelok.”

We're so glad Lomelok is doing so well!

Cats can be incredibly feisty. They love asserting dominance over other household members and even inanimate objects. If they feel challenged, they don't take disobedience lightly, often resorting to hilarious tactics to get what they desire.

This funny cat is in a battle with a large bottle of water. Unable to swat it off the counter, this feline is none too pleased. Watch him try to win this war in a video from April 24:

@threenawtycats

Reposting one of our most viral videos 😅 #catsoftiktok #tabbycats #meancats #catfluencer #naughtycats #threenawtycats

♬ original sound - Three Nawty Cats

This silly kitty (@threenawtycats) wants to give this big bottle a stern reprimand. Try as he may, it's too big to bat off the counter and onto the floor. Each time he takes a swing, his frustration grows when he's unable to make it budge. He then resorts to letting out a few meows to ensure the bottle knows his anger. Undeterred, he lunges at it to apply more force, but this tactic doesn't work, either. Unwilling to leave the scene, he relents, lying on the edge of the counter, tail flapping, contemplating his next move. When mom inquires, "Why are you mad?" He looks up as if to respond, "You know why."

Related: Cat Parents Document All the Mischief Their Tabby Cat Gets Into and It's a Hoot

Why Do Cats Get Mad at Inanimate Objects?

Our frisky felines can become frustrated with things they don't feel they are in control of and have no problem airing their grievances to us. However, as Cats.com tells us, they might do things like knock objects off tables for many reasons.

1. Instincts. Even though we understand what drives them to do these things, it's part of their DNA. As natural-born hunters, they might behave this way to keep their skills sharp.
   
   
2. They're looking for attention. If we haven't given them the attention they crave, they sometimes do things to make us notice them, even if it's not behaviors we want to see.
   
   
3. They get something out of it. If they are doing something like knocking things over and we react, they may want to see us respond this way again.
   
   
4. It's game time. If you've been out for the day or are busy working from home at your desk, they may be trying to show you they're craving attention. They may also just be bored and looking for something to do with you.

While preventing these behaviors may not be possible, ensuring they receive enough of our undivided attention is a good start. Providing enrichment activities and toys can also help curb these unwanted actions.

Even though we may not understand why cats behave the way they do, they never hesitate to let us know if they are not pleased. They are experts in creating their happiness, no matter what may be happening.

Weddings are a lot of fun, even aside from the part where you get to witness people you love vowing to love each other forever. First of all, there's the cake... and the food... and the booze... and the dancing. But there's one thing that really takes a wedding from good to great in my mind, and that is when the newlyweds include their pets in the ceremony. It's not an easy task, especially for those with more mischievous pups, but it does make for a far more memorable (and adorable) event.

There are plenty of roles that beloved pets can play in weddings, and a big one is the ring bearer. Not every dog is cut out to take on this important job, but the one in this TikTok video certainly is... and he is now getting all the praise he deserves!

@6abcactionnews

'Good boy': Golden retriever makes adorable and enthusiastic ring bearer at wedding in Liverpool #fyp #goldenretriever #dogsoftiktok #liverpool #wedding #feelgood

♬ original sound - 6abc Action News - 6abc Action News

On Thursday, April 25, @6abcactionnews shared footage of a wedding in Liverpool, England, where a Golden Retriever was being the best ring bearer anyone could dream of (sorry to all the little kids out there who I"m sure also do a great job, but it's almost impossible to top a dog). 

When it came time to exchange rings, this pup came galloping down the aisle at the church, even stopping to get a few pets along the way. He was dressed in a dapper black doggie tux, and as soon as he saw his mom and dad at the altar, he bolted to meet them.

Meanwhile, everyone who was lucky enough to witness this moment was cheering for him, and he deserved all the applause. He definitely stole the show that day! 

Including Dogs in Your Wedding

As you can see, including a pup in your wedding day is a very clear crowd pleaser... and honestly, who wouldn't want to include their four-legged friend in the festivities if they could? 

There are a few preparations to be made first, though — like assigning someone the job of being in charge of the dog during the wedding, since you'll be too busy (and should be spending the day soaking up every minute, not picking up poop from the ground at your venue). You may also want someone to bring your dog home or to a babysitter after the ceremony, since they probably won't enjoy the reception very much! 

You can also include your pet in other ways if they don't like being around crowds or would get overwhelmed by a wedding. My personal favorite is when the couple names a signature drink after each of their pets — so much fun.

Or maybe this Golden Retriever is willing to offer up his services to other couples? Just an idea...