Parade Pets

Maine Coons come in so many different colors that it's almost unbelievable. It just feels like the possibilities never end, and somehow, every single Maine Coon is cuter than the last. I've never seen a single Maine Coon that I didn't love!

Recently, though, I saw one I loved more than any of the ones I've seen before: a Blue Smoke Maine Coon kitten. It's an uncommon coat coloring, sure, but what really got me is that he looks like a chubby, fluffy storm cloud:

Incredible glowup of blue smoke boy Mr.Bubblegum. #catsoftiktok #glowup #exploremore #cuteanimals #mainecoon

Tassel Ears Maine Coon Cattery has plenty of stunning cats, but Mr. Bubblegum is by far the best one. His fur has such a rich blue/grey color, and as he's gotten older, it's only gotten more vibrant. You can really see his Smoke genes, too!

Their cattery is named after a major hallmark of European-style Maine Coons: their furry ears. These cats have tufts of fur at the tops of their ears that look just like tassels! Mr. Bubblegum has had strong tufts ever since he was a tiny baby.

Related: Female Maine Coon Is So Big, She Makes the Males Look Like Kittens

This cattery seems to specialize in Smoke Maine Coons, because they have so many of them! One of the things that's helped to garner them over 10 million likes across all of their videos is that their cats all look like fluffy, smoky tumbleweeds:

Slowly, video by video, but you can see clearly how they’re growing). And mom Rey became a nanny for all) #catsoftiktok #catwalk #kittenlove #cuteanimals #mainecoon

Like, get out of here. Plus, the camera quality is absolutely insane: these kittens look like they could be in a nature documentary. I need all of them, right now. I'm just so in love!

Mr. Bubblegum's transformation happened in just over 4 months, and he's not even done. He's just started! If this is how big he is this soon, I'm a little scared he's going to grow up to be bigger than me!

Image via Shutterstock / Ceoma

Maine Coons aren't full-grown for anywhere from 3-5 years, but most of their physical growth happens within the first 18 months. By the time they reach that age, they've reached almost their full size, but there are still some important growth milestones to hit:

• Their coat continues to develop.
• Their bones finish growing.
• Their facial features sharpen.

Mr. Bubblegum has a long way to grow, but it'll be well worth the wait! I can't wait to see him all grown up!

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Niall Harbison comes across street dogs with extensive injuries and illnesses through Thailand animal rescue, Happy Doggo. One of his recent rescues, a blind dog named Rocky, had such extensive health issues that Harbison wasn't sure the pooch would survive.

The animal advocate dedicated himself to Rocky's recovery and the canine cutie's transformation is truly miraculous.

The Instagram video from @niall.harbison shows the remarkable progress Rocky has made since Harbison brought him back to the Happy Doggo sanctuary. The sweet dog had been abandoned because of his failing health.

Harbison took Rocky for medical care at the rescue, where tests showed he has glaucoma that causes his blindness, blood parasites, skin issues, and pressure on his organs.

"17 days ago he couldn’t even stand up," the caption explained. "He was lashing out of fear. The vets gave him a tiny chance of survival and he couldn’t see two inches in front of him."

Despite his initial fear when approached for rescue, Rocky actually longed for human touch. Harbison stayed by Rocky's side throughout his recovery and gave him tons of affection as part of his daily routine. The love that Rocky is finally receiving may be what prompted this precious pooch to keep going.

Harbison named the former street dog after the iconic boxer from the movie of the same name. Rocky definitely has a fighting spirit and is thriving under Harbison's care. The video showed the canine actually standing on his hind legs to give Harbison a hug.

"I went down to see him this morning, as usual, and brought him his breakfast," the story continued. "It’s like he’s a new dog. I nearly fainted when he jumped up and grabbed me for a little embrace."

With all of the traumatic situations Harbison comes across in his work with street dogs, Rocky's comeback gives the rescue founder hope for those dogs in dire condition.

"One of those moments that, through the tough times, makes everything worth it," the caption concluded. "I’m absolutely speechless at how Rocky’s recovery is going."

Related: Senior Rescue Dog Gets Custom Wheelchair and Starts Living Her Best ‘Golden Girl’ Life

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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If you’ve noticed your dog needs a lot of sleep, much like a human teenager, there’s no need for alarm. Experts say full-grown dogs need approximately 12 to 14 hours of sleep per day. Puppies and senior dogs require even more, sometimes 16 to 20 hours daily. Dog naps help pups squeeze in all those much-needed hours of rest.

A video of one sleepy Golden Retriever enjoying a sun nap is going viral on social media, with fans suggesting this pup is “recharging his barking batteries” in the cutest way possible.

In the video, Chili the Golden Retriever isn’t just catching some sleep — this dog is completely sacked out in the sun, looking like he stopped mid-step, flopped over, and instantly fell asleep. With a setting this beautiful — full sun, right by the water — Chili picked an enviable spot to soak up the warmth and recharge. It’s almost as if this dog is solar-powered and feeding off the sunshine itself.

battery must be full to alert #goldenretriever #dogs

That actually may not be far from the truth. Not only does it feel good to nap in the warmth of the sun, but sunbathing also helps warm dogs’ muscles and boost serotonin levels — the hormone that helps dogs and humans feel happy.

what a life 💛🫶🏻 #goldenretriever #goldensun #dogtok #cutedog #dogmum

Sleeping in the sun can also help reduce joint pain experienced by many beloved pups.

While it may seem like Chili collapsed wherever he could find a place to rest, this clever Golden Retriever actually chose a terrific spot to nap, warm up, ease any joint discomfort, and yes, recharge his barking battery.

Looking at this bright sunny day, it might not seem like this pup needs help staying warm. Dogs’ body temperatures, however, are naturally higher than humans’. Averaging between 102 and 105 degrees, dogs burn a lot of energy simply trying to regulate their body heat. All that gorgeous sunlight isn’t just for luxuriating during an afternoon nap — it’s also helping this dog stay warm and cozy.

The next time you notice your clever canine stretched out in that one sunny spot in the living room or searching for patches of afternoon light in the backyard, your pup is probably trying to warm up, even if he’s already the coolest dog on the block.

The confident little cat in this video has exactly one mission: Everybody is going outside today, whether they're emotionally prepared for it or not.

Unfortunately for his much slower sibling, she doesn't appear fully on board with the plan.

We have one adventure cat who loves his walks… and one who didn’t quite understand the concept 🐾 #cat #adventurecat #catsoftiktok

The hilarious clip from the TikTok account @misterrpuss shows one determined cat confidently marching down a cobblestone street while holding a leash attached to another cat slowly trailing behind like an exhausted Victorian child being forced on a nature walk.

The caption explained the dynamic perfectly.

“We have one adventure cat who loves his walks… and one who didn’t quite understand the concept.”

Related: Orange Cat Goes on a Walk and Gets Way Too Excited About Every Bird He Sees

Honestly, the second kitty looks deeply unconvinced that outside contains anything worth experiencing.

• “If you’re going out, take your brother with you.”
• “This is my husband dragging my introverted self to places I like to be but don’t want to go to.”
• “Struggle all you want, we are GOING!”
• “That’s not a walk, that’s a drag!”
• “Someone was NOT enjoying the fresh air.”

But the funniest moment may have come from one extremely concerned commenter who assumed that the slower-moving feline must be elderly.

“The other cat following him looks like a senior cat. Please be kind. Don’t do that, please.”

To which the cat mom hilariously responded:

“She is 7 months old.”

Honestly, that response absolutely destroyed me because the poor little cat really does move with the energy of somebody forced to attend a mandatory networking event.

Meanwhile, my Maine Coon, Meatball, would absolutely volunteer to be the adventure cat, while my other kitties would collectively file complaints with management.

Walking this furry diva through nature like chauffeuring a celeb #catsoftiktok #tuxedocat #adventurecat #cute #outdoors

Many cats can learn to enjoy outdoor walks using harnesses and leashes, especially when introduced slowly and positively. More adventurous or confident kitties often enjoy exploring new smells, sights, and environments safely alongside their humans.

However, personality matters a lot.

• Outdoor exploration
• Harness walks
• New smells and stimulation
• Following routines
• Adventure outings

• Staying inside forever
• Looking at nature through windows
• Judging outdoor activities from a safe distance
• Absolutely no group excursions under any circumstances

And judging by this particular duo, at least one cat is still trying very hard to understand why walking voluntarily became part of the family schedule.

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Toddlers are usually out here making life harder in very small shoes. They spill things, wander off, and treat pants like a personal insult. Ranch kids, though, are apparently built in a different factory. Give one a tiny truck, a patch of land, and a herd of cows, and suddenly you're looking at somebody with better job skills than half the adult workforce.

This video is proof.

Who's herding who? This Texas toddler is proving his aptitude as a young ranch hand, leading about two dozen cows while driving his little toy truck.

Out in Texas, a little toddler is driving a toy truck while guiding what looks like about two dozen cows, as if this is simply the next item on his morning list. No panic. No confusion. No wild steering. Just one tiny ranch hand moving with enough purpose to make the whole thing look suspiciously professional. The post frames it like a fair question: Who is herding who? And honestly, the answer seems to be: The toddler is absolutely in charge here.

That is what makes the clip so good.

It's not just cute because he's small. It's cute because he's weirdly good at it.

You expect chaos from a setup like this. You expect one cow to ignore him, the truck to veer into a ditch, or the whole thing to collapse into adorable nonsense. Instead, this kid looks like he has already clocked in, reviewed the route, and accepted that leadership comes with responsibility. One commenter basically summed up the universal reaction: This is the cutest thing ever, and somehow he is also genuinely good at the job.

That is the sweet spot for internet gold.

The toy truck makes it even better, because it turns the whole scene into a perfect little visual joke. He's not on horseback. He's not walking behind them in boots twice his size. He's in a tiny vehicle doing real ranch work with the confidence of somebody who has no time for your disbelief. It's giving junior foreman. It's giving management in a booster seat.

And maybe that's why people can't stop watching clips like this. It's not trying too hard. It's just real life being accidentally funnier and more charming than anything anyone could script.

Also, my dog, Lola, would sign up for this job in a heartbeat if we had cows. She would absolutely believe she was born to oversee livestock operations. Whether the cows would agree with her leadership style is another story.

Still, I respect the ambition.

This little guy, though, doesn't need ambition. He already has the posture, the focus, and the tiny worker energy of somebody who was fully meant for this world. Some kids get toy trucks.

This one apparently got a whole herd.

Kids who grow up around animals often get comfortable reading movement, energy, and body language much earlier than other children. When daily life includes watching livestock, helping with chores, and learning how animals respond, that confidence can start to look almost second nature.

This video is adorable, obviously, but it also feels real. This little guy isn't pretending to be a ranch hand for the camera. He looks like he's already been paying attention. According to Michigan State University Extension, being around animals can help children build confidence, responsibility, empathy, and awareness.

Meanwhile, Lola would still be trying to unionize the cows by day two.

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Related: This Baby Cow’s Face 'Looks Like a Work of Art'—Wait Until You Hear His Perfect Name

Nearly every cat parent I know has, at some point, adopted a stray kitty who suddenly appeared at the most unexpected place and/or time. In my case, an itty-bitty Tortoiseshell kitten appeared behind our trash bin. I couldn't let the scared and shivering baby risk getting hit by a car on our busy road—and she had no microchip or family searching for her—so we took her in.

We don't get to choose when, why, or how some companions find us! This is exactly what Angelica Ramos (@jelairamos24) discovered when an adorable, tiny Black Kitten ran right up to her, and what happened next is pure heartwarming goodness.

Click here to watch the video.

The way the confident kitten ran right up to Angelica is the perfect example of how the cat distribution system works, and it's all too familiar to me and so many others. The Black Cat with the cutest happy hops couldn't get to [what would be from this moment on] his new mom fast enough. It's like he's known her for centuries in past lives!

If you're wondering what happened after this video, it's even better than it all began.

Related: Black Kitten Cuddling With Lookalike 'Foster Daughter' Is the Cutest Coal-Colored Couple

Angelica officially adopted the stray Black Kitten, now named Yupi, and the two of them are the sweetest pair. After a bath, a delicious meal, and lots of love, Yupi is thriving and off-the-charts precious!

Such a cutieeee #catdistributionsystem #blackcat #Yupi #straycat #adoptdontshop

I'm a firm believer that pets choose us, not the other way around, and this story is a good example. The cat distribution system (CDS) is a term coined on social media that theorizes the universe assigns cats to us at random.

If you've ever been approached by a stray kitty, or they've ended up in your path, on your property, or found you in some way, you're probably a believer in the CDS. As a pet parent who's had dozens of cats and dogs through the years, I can attest to this, with 99.9% of my fur children finding me—some in the most random of ways!

The CDS doesn't discriminate in terms of how busy we are, how chaotic life already feels, or how much money we lack. This system pairs us with those in need, likely because they know we will help them.

With millions of stray cats wandering the earth at any given time, the chances of being selected are high. If a stray kitty finds you, make sure to check for a microchip and scan the web for any lost pet posts so you're not stealing someone's companion. As for little Yupi, here's to the best next chapter with his new mom!

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Some dogs walk into a room with dignity and elegance. Others arrive looking like they're being powered entirely by excitement, tail velocity, and approximately three loosely connected noodles.

A giant Chocolate Labrador named Drake, better known online as “Big Perm,” firmly falls into category two.

#dogsoftiktok #fypシ #fyp #labrador #drakeyyypooo

The TikTok video was shared by @shookdashocker, and it shows the famously wobbly Labrador greeting his dad with what can only be described as maximum dog energy.

“How you doing today ,Big Perm?” his dad asks in the video. “You doing good, big buddy?”

And honestly, the answer appears to be yes. Extremely yes.

Related: This Dancing Labrador Retriever Has More Rhythm Than Most Humans

The nickname “Big Perm” actually comes from the movie Friday. His original nickname was Big Worm, but in the movie, Big Worm eventually got a perm, and somehow the name evolved from there. Which honestly feels exactly like the kind of nickname progression that only makes sense when attached to a giant, lovable Labrador.

The internet immediately became obsessed with the sweet dog’s chaotic, happy energy.

• “He has, arguably, the most pettable head I’ve ever seen.”
• “No thoughts, just great vibes.”
• “That tail wag is lethal.”
• “He’s just a weeblin’ and a wobblin’.”
• “Wagging his whole body.”

Others said the Labrador reminded them of a very specific childhood character.

“Every time I see this sweet boy, I always see ‘big bear,’” one commenter wrote, comparing him to Bear from Bear in the Big Blue House.

Honestly, that comparison is painfully accurate. Big Perm has the exact same giant, cozy energy as a children’s TV character who gives life advice before a commercial break.

One commenter may have summarized the entire situation best, though.

“Why is this dog the most doggy dog ever?”

And honestly? Excellent question.

Some Labradors just radiate pure DOG in all caps. No mystery. No emotional complexity. Just vibes, tail movement, and overwhelming friendliness.

Meanwhile, my Pomeranian, Kingston, wags too, but in a much more aggressive “small manager furious at customer service” kind of way.

Did you know all of these facts? #labrador #lab #labradors #dog #dogs

Labrador Retrievers have remained one of the most popular dog breeds for decades because they are typically friendly, affectionate, social, and eager to please. They're known for bonding closely with families and often have extremely expressive body language, including the famous full-body Labrador wag.

Labs also tend to maintain puppy-like enthusiasm well into adulthood, which is exactly why videos like this spread so quickly online. People can't resist a giant, happy dog whose entire personality seems to be “best day ever.”

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Orangutans are known for their human-like behaviors, but a recent interaction between a curious ape and a visitor at the Louisville Zoo is stopping social media viewers mid-scroll. The inquisitive orangutan wants to know what’s inside a woman’s purse and stays for the entire tour of her bag, determined to find one thing — candy. Like a curious child, this Orangutan simply wants to know what’s inside her purse, and the interaction is nothing short of remarkable.

In the social media video shared to TikTok, the ape, quickly identified as Amber from the Louisville Zoo, can be seen mid-conversation — yes, conversation — with a zoo visitor carrying a small purse-like backpack.

Separated by the thick glass window of Amber’s enclosure, there’s seemingly nothing standing in the way of this ape expertly communicating with the woman.

contactlicensing@newsflare.com to license.

Using finger tapping, pointing, head gestures, and expressive body language, Amber guides the zoo visitor to open her purse and reveal its contents. While it’s not entirely clear whether Amber is searching for a specific object, she clearly shows preferences for certain items over others. The Orangutan even threatens to walk away when the revealed objects fail to impress her.

The zoo visitor and Amber communicate remarkably well with one another, and despite the woman’s flustered response of, “there’s nothing else in there,” she continues pulling out more items, including a toothbrush, wallet, and flashlight.

Related: Loving Orangutan Patiently Teaches Foster Baby How To Swing

They are the coolest animals! She wanted me to keep pulling more stuff out 😂 #momofboys #zoo #animaltok #funnyanimals #louisvillezoo

With each item, Amber taps on the glass, signaling for the purse holder to reveal something else until she finally spots something she likes — candy. The intelligent ape jumps with excitement and appears to try figuring out how she might climb out of her enclosure to reach the sweet treat, only to realize it’s impossible.

Amber, and Orangutans in general, are well known for their intelligence, but this interaction also highlights another important Orangutan skill — foraging. At first glance, it may seem like Amber is simply a nosy ape searching for a treat at the bottom of a stranger’s purse.

In reality, apes are naturally curious and have a strong ancestral instinct to forage. With limited foraging opportunities in a zoo environment, Amber appears to be satisfying that instinct by rummaging through a stranger’s purse in a charming interaction that has viewers comparing the thorough ape to a highly detail-oriented TSA agent.

Nothing gets past an Orangutan, especially a piece of candy hiding at the bottom of a purse.

Related: Orangutan’s Act of Love for an Orphaned Baby Is Bringing the Internet To Tears

More than anything, cats are cunning and curious creatures who aren't living their best lives unless they're in some kind of debacle. Being a troublemaking rebel is in their DNA, so we can't get too worked up about whatever shenanigans they create. If they put their mind to it, they'll do just about anything that tickles their proverbial fancy—especially if it means finding a yummy treat!

This describes a clever Tabby cat named Loki who recently found himself in a bit of a pickle while searching for food. This is one kitty with zero shame in his game, and you won't believe where Mom found him!

i think i accidentally adopted a racoon

I see no Tabby cat digging in the trash here; I only see an adorable raccoon who snuck into the house and ravaged the trash can for even a nibble! It's all in a day's work, as @lokidoestricks, so I'm sure Mom and Dad are used to this kind of situation. Even still, the fact that he didn't fall in face-first is something of a miracle!

As one fan put it, if you name a kitty Loki, "you have to expect the chaos!" If you're not a Marvel fan or familiar with the Loki character, just know that this funny feline's behavior is spot-on.

Channeling his wild side isn't the only thing Loki does for a laugh. He's a relentless menace—all in the name of food!

Related: Tabby Cat's Clever Plan To Keep Mom Home From Work Is Total Boss Material

It doesn't matter if it's rotten food at the bottom of a trash can or Mom's plate of fries. Loki believes in abundance, sharing, and the whole "what's yours is mine" mentality. That means if no one offers up a bite, he'll take it, anyway.

Seems fair. His persistence is cute, so he can get away with it!

when everyone’s getting skinny but fries are really good

Much like Loki and the trash can (or any cat who's ever existed anywhere), curiosity tops their list of traits, so they can't help but seek out curious things to investigate. In the wild, the big cats are scavengers who hunt for food to survive. Just because our resident kitties are domesticated doesn't mean those ingrained behaviors will disappear!

If you find your cat digging in the trash like Loki, make sure the lid's on tight. If they find a way in, anyway, congrats, because you have a Loki—god of chaos—on your hands, too!

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The Basset Hound in this video doesn't look guilty. He looks focused. Determined, even. Like a dog with a plan, a destination, and absolutely no intention of explaining himself to management.

A hilariously serious Basset Hound is making people laugh online after being caught quietly wandering away with an entire container of macaroni and cheese clenched proudly in his mouth.

#fyp #dogs

TikTok user @gwen_1964 shared the clip showing the low-riding little criminal slowly marching away with the Tupperware container while his mom asks, “Where are you going with that macaroni and cheese?”

And honestly? Based on his expression, that information appears to be classified.

Related: Mini Dapple Dachshund Has Hilarious Tantrum When Mom Won't Share Her Mac and Cheese

The funniest part is how calm and purposeful the dog looks during the entire getaway attempt. There's no panic. No rushing. Just the steady confidence of someone who believes this macaroni and cheese legally belongs to him now.

• “Sometimes his business isn’t your business!”
• “Well… it’s a to-go container… he’s going.”
• “Who made you the mac n cheese police?”
• “God forbid he packs a lunch.”
• “Madam, he’s on his lunch break… having a picnic… let him be.”
• “Sometimes a little mac & cheese and alone time is necessary.”
• “I’m running away from home, Mom.”
• “He’s got people to see and places to be.”
• “He’s on an express train to Nunya.”

Honestly, the dog really does have the energy of an exhausted middle-aged office worker trying to escape with leftovers before anyone asks him to do one more thing.

And the way he carries the container so carefully somehow makes the entire situation even funnier. This isn't chaos. This is organization.

Meanwhile, my Maine Coon, Meatball, once attempted to drag an entire loaf of bread across the kitchen floor and honestly had the same level of determination.

Basset Hounds are famously food-motivated dogs, partly because they were originally bred as scent hounds with strong tracking instincts and hearty appetites. Many Bassets become extremely focused on snacks, treats, and anything remotely edible.

• Strong food motivation
• Determined personalities
• Incredible scent-tracking abilities
• Calm but stubborn behavior
• Slow, dramatic movements
• Persistent snack-related decision-making

And judging by this particular adventure, at least one Basset Hound firmly believes macaroni and cheese is worth planning an entire escape around.

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Humans and animals can seem so different, but a baby elephant displaying a familiar childlike behavior at England’s Blackpool Zoo is a reminder that human babies and animal babies are more alike than they are different. Babies of all kinds charmingly seek comfort and soothing as they venture out into the world — and it’s adorable in every form.

Baby Zaiya, a sweet baby elephant, has become a social media sensation in a viral video that captures an endearing behavior. In the video, Zaiya can be seen trotting around her enclosure with her mother nearby.

The precious elephant appears giddy as she runs around, exploring her area and testing the limits of her expanding motor skills. Eagle-eyed social media sleuths were quick to notice Zaiya sweetly sucking her trunk like a human infant sucking their thumb, a reminder that elephants might be giants of the jungle, but their babies are still little creatures seeking comfort just like human babies do.

Baby Elephant Zaiya 🩶✨ No thoughts, just running 🥰 Look at her little ears when she runs 🥹 @Blackpool Zoo #babyelephant #funnyanimals #adorableanimals #zoomies #cutebaby

Related: Elephant Calf Linh Mai Goes Viral Taking a Bubble Bath Ahead of Earth Day Debut

Right where she belongs 🐘🤍 @Blackpool Zoo #babyelephant #elephantlove #animalmoments #animalsofttiktok #wildlifevideo

In addition to the comfort and calm that trunk-sucking provides, baby elephants also suck their trunks as they develop motor skills. An elephant's trunk contains more than 40,000 muscles, which takes serious coordination to master. Babies suck their trunks as a way to gain control over those muscles while exploring their environment and learning how to coordinate their movements.

“The fact that baby elephants suck their trunks like babies suck their thumbs is the cutest thing ever oh my god look at her and her little built-in pacifier I’m crying,” shared one commenter online, noting the elephant’s “built-in” pacifier.

Commenters were also taken with Zaiya’s “head fluff,” calling her a cuteness overload.

This baby elephant is exactly that, but she’s also a reminder of the sweetness and innocence shared by babies of all species. Just like a human baby, or a newborn of any kind, Zaiya is learning to navigate her world and master her many muscles like the sweet, innocent baby she is.

Related: Clumsy Baby Elephant Learning to Climb and Walk Is Too Cute

A gaggle of baby geese was separated from their mother, which is always sad to hear. But what they found in the form of a new caregiver is melting hearts across the world.

In a new viral animal video, we see a tiny brood of goslings follow and emotionally bond with their rescuer, a young fisherman.

This touching animal rescue video shows the strong attachment young birds can form with a dedicated caregiver. No wonder people can't stop watching!

A brood of goslings stranded from their mother were captured swimming beside and clinging to a fisherman in Tjarno, Sweden #abcnews #news

We see in the sweet video that the baby geese are clinging to the fisherman, named Alex Corregidor Ellison, who found them in Tjarno, Sweden, while fishing with a friend.

“When I turned around, I saw five baby geese swimming towards us, resulting in them trying to climb all over us, as if we were their mother,” Ellison said.

Though the baby geese were reunited with their mother shortly after this, they bonded so fast with Alex and his friend.

Why did that happen so fast?

When goslings are separated from their parents, they immediately look for the next reliable caregiver and form an attachment.

Related: This Goose Ignores 80 MPH Winds Like a Tiny Storm Chaser

Alex and his friend were gentle and sweet—they even made quack sounds!—and clearly were not a threat to these young birds.

The baby geese immediately began to imprint on their surrogate parent, even if it was only for a few minutes.

Ellison smartly realized that their mother was hopefully not too far, so they decided to separate from them.

“We left the babies shortly after so that the mother could return to them, and surely enough, a few minutes later, they were reunited," he told Storyful.

A happy ending for this heartwarming rescue video.

It reminds me a bit of the wonderful 1996 film, Fly Away Home, starring Anna Paquin, in which a gaggle of baby geese, also abandoned by their parent, imprint on a young and somewhat lonely preteen.

Eventually, she and her father decided the geese needed to fly south for the winter, and she did so by guiding them while flying her own plane that looked like a big mama goose.

If you feel like crying a whole lot, then this is the film for you.

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While dogs and cats are often depicted as enemies, many of these fur babies actually form close relationships. Despite being different species, canines and kitties can often find common ground when living under the same roof.

Oakley is a 14-year-old dog who's gotten a bit slower with age, yet his feline brother River is always right by his side and happy to cheer him on.

No best friend left behind 😭🙏 #dogandcat #bestfriends #seniordog #animallover #animalfriends

The TikTok from @whiskeytoller revealed a beautiful example of the brotherly bond between Oakley and River. Oakley stood tentatively at the top of the stairs and hesitated to take the first step down. River got vocal as he paced back and forth around his brother, which got their mom's attention.

"I couldn't figure out why my cat kept meowing while my 14-year-old dog waited at the top of the stairs," the onscreen text read. "But then I realized, he was encouraging him and making sure he wasn't trying something hard all alone."

River continued to support his precious pooch brother, then walked downstairs to show him there was nothing to fear. After the feline fur baby confirmed that the coast was clear, Oakley carefully walked down the steps to join his kitty sibling.

"They were waiting for each other," the video concluded, with the caption adding, "No best friend left behind."

Followers praised the precious pair and their obvious devotion to each other.

"I love the bond these two have — it just melts my heart," one remarked.

"I wish TikTok would stop making me cry!! What a beautiful pair!!" another gushed.

"His emotional support cat," a follower noted.

"Never underestimate the love and bond animals have for each other," someone shared.

According to several TikTok posts from the account, these fur baby brothers spend most of their time snuggling together. One heartwarming video featured Oakley sleeping while River "made biscuits" on his big brother, a behavior in which cats use their paws in a kneading motion.

Did you know when cats “make biscuits,” it’s more than just adorable? …it’s deeply instinctive behavior that starts when they’re kittens. They knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow, and that comforting motion becomes hardwired as a sign of safety and connection. 🧡 As adults, cats often knead when they feel completely relaxed and secure, the same way they did as kittens with their mom. This may even help cats deposit scent from the pads of their paws, marking something (or someone) as familiar, safe, and “their own”. So when my cat started making biscuits on my senior dog Oakley 🐶, it might not have been just for his own comfort, but i think it was his way of comforting his brother too... It’s a beautiful example of how cats express love and belonging in their own quiet, instinctive way. 🥹🧡 Cats are often misunderstood as distant or aloof, but behaviors like this show just how emotionally aware and connected they truly are. So next time your cat makes biscuits, remember that they might just be telling you that you’re their safe space. #catbehavior #animalbehavior #catbiscuits #catsanddogs

This instinctive action starts for a cat in their early kitten days when they knead their mom's belly to stimulate milk, and continues throughout their lives as a sort of comfort behavior. The repetitive motion makes them feel secure and is a form of bonding. For River, the gesture seemed two-fold.

"When my cat started making biscuits on my senior dog Oakley, it might not have been just for his own comfort, but i think it was his way of comforting his brother too," the caption explained.

These brothers are definitely BFFs.

Related: Senior Rescue Dog Gets Custom Wheelchair and Starts Living Her Best ‘Golden Girl’ Life

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The man in this video was expecting a normal workday. Instead, he opened his truck door and found a sleepy brown-and-white Pit Bull curled up inside like she had already decided this was her vehicle now.

Honestly? She looked extremely confident about the arrangement.

She is the most sweetest dog. She walked up on me while I was working. Scared the holy hell out of me. She kept wanting to get in the truck so I let her. she took a nap till I finished my job. Went to dollar general got her some food. Made sure not to over feed her. She finally drank some water later. Took her to vca and she don’t have a chip. Took her to tractor supply gave her a bath with some flea and tick shampoo. Also gave her some stuff for the flea and ticks. Next step is to get my other non friendly dog to like her or going to have to find her a new home I really hope my dog will start to like her. Baby steps

TikToker @anothercattech shared the touching rescue story after the sweet stray dog unexpectedly wandered up while he was working.

“She is the most sweetest dog,” he wrote. “She walked up on me while I was working. Scared the holy h*ll out of me.”

Related: Dog Finds a Tiny Stray Kitten and Immediately Starts Caring for Her

But instead of running away, the dog kept trying to climb into the truck until he finally let her inside.

And once she got comfortable? She immediately fell asleep in the front seat while he finished his job.

The man later explained that he stopped at Dollar General to buy her food, carefully made sure she didn't overeat too quickly, and eventually got her to drink water. He also took her to the vet to check for a microchip, but none was found.

• He gave her a bath with flea and tick shampoo
• Treated her for fleas and ticks
• Started introducing her to his other Pittie named Belle
• Officially gave her the name Maple

Honestly, the entire thing feels less like “finding a stray dog,” and more like “being selected by a dog who had already made up her mind.”

• “First place she has probably felt safe in a long time.”
• “She will be your best friend!”
• “Looks like you have a new apprentice.”
• “She was patiently waiting for you to finish your job so you [could] take her home.”
• “Congratulations on the new work dog. She will always want to go to work with you.”

Others encouraged patience while Maple adjusts to her new surroundings and slowly gets acquainted with Belle.

• “3 day, 3 week, 3 month rule for adopting. Give them time!”

Honestly, that first image of Maple peacefully sleeping in the truck says everything. After who knows how long surviving outside, she finally found one place where she felt safe enough to fully relax.

Just a update for all the Maple lovers out there. The walking is helping still going to take it slow #teammaple #rescuedog #doglovers #update

Introducing a new dog to a resident dog often takes patience and slow, supervised interactions. Experts recommend neutral introductions, calm environments, and gradual bonding rather than forcing immediate friendship.

• Keep initial meetings calm and short.
• Introduce dogs on neutral ground when possible.
• Reward relaxed behavior with treats and praise.
• Give both pups separate safe spaces.
• Avoid forcing interaction too quickly.
• Supervise feeding and toys at first.
• Allow gradual building of trust over time.

Many rescue dogs also follow the “3 day, 3 week, 3 month” adjustment pattern, where they slowly become more comfortable and confident in a new home.

And judging by the way Maple climbed into that truck and instantly fell asleep, she may have already decided she hopes this is where she belongs.

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Looking for some beautiful cat earrings that are guaranteed to get compliments? Whether you're a proud cat parent or just want to wear something cute, these crystal Betsey Johnson earrings are guaranteed to impress.

The Betsey Johnson Pave Cat Stud Earrings are just $22 on Amazon when they normally cost $30. That means you're getting almost 30% off if you don't delay and grab these now.

The earrings are 0.5 inches wide and have a push-back back with a metal base and a crystal stud design. The feature black cat faces embellished with black pave stones, gold tone whiskers, and "delicate stone accents."

Buyers rate them 4.7 out of 5 stars.

"Purrfect kitty earrings," writes one buyer. "I have a black cat so I thought these were adorable. These earrings are a nice size. (Not too big but can be see on your lobes). They are made really well and look great."

Another buyer raves, "These earrings are really great. They look good on; just the right size and sparkle without looking 'costumey.' Also they are of excellent quality, looking like I paid $100 at least."

Courtesy of Amazon

Amazon notes that these earrings are rarely returned by customers, who "usually keep this item." In other words, you know you're getting high quality if you order these.

Buyers are in love with these adorable earrings. Here's a snapshot of what they're saying:

• "The purrfect gift for any cat lover."
• "These are much more beautiful than the photo in (the) ad shows! I'm so glad I got them."
• "Beautiful earrings."
• "So cute, I really like them and they are so well made."

Amazon offers free delivery on orders shipped by Amazon of over $35 (or for any orders from Prime members.) Amazon also offers free 30 day refunds/replacements.

Related: Walmart Is Selling a Stunning Crystal Cat Necklace That Buyers Will 'Cherish for Years'

Rabbits are one of those animals who already look a little unreal on a normal day. They're basically anxiety wrapped in velvet, with the kind of tiny, concentrated cuteness that makes you question whether nature was showing off. So when someone spots what looks like a “ball of cream fluff” on the side of a busy road, there's a brief second where your brain is allowed to hope it's just somebody’s lost throw pillow.

Then it moves.

My husband spotted this little ball of cream fluff on the side of a busy road today. He called me to bring a crate and and towel. We had a dwarf netherland rabbit, Onyx, for nine years. He passed away three months ago and we were heart broken. Rabbits are so much work and require space to play, socialize and need to be part of a family. I just don’t know how anyone could just dump and animal. We have most everything we would need to keep it. And maybe the universe just connected us. Either way, we will make sure it is safe, feed and either find a rabbit rescue or welcome it into the family. Humans need to do better! Animals don’t deserve this! #rabbit #animalrescue #animallover #bunny #kindness

That is what happened here. A husband spotted this little pale fluffball near the road and called for backup: bring a crate, bring a towel, bring whatever is needed because this is now officially a situation. And once you know the family’s backstory, the whole thing hits even harder. They had a Netherland Dwarf Rabbit named Onyx for nine years, lost him just three months ago, and were still very much carrying that heartbreak around. Then the universe tosses a roadside bunny into the frame like a wild, emotional plot twist.

What makes the story land is that nobody in it is pretending rabbits are easy. The family clearly knows the reality. Rabbits are work. Real work. They need room, time, enrichment, social connection, and a household that understands they're not decorative little starter pets.

That's part of why the rescue feels so meaningful. This wasn't somebody casually deciding, sure, let’s keep the fluff. This was a family looking at an abandoned animal and saying, at minimum, we will make sure you're safe, fed, and not left to fend for yourself on a roadside. If that means connecting with a rabbit rescue, they will do that. If that means welcoming this bunny into the family, they're prepared for that, too.

And honestly, good.

Because dumping a domestic rabbit outside isn't giving them freedom.

One commenter wrote, “He looks a lot like my roadside bunny!” which somehow makes the whole thing feel even bigger. Apparently, there's a whole terrible genre of “domestic rabbit found where absolutely no domestic rabbit should be,” and thankfully, also a whole genre of people willing to stop, care, and do better.

That is the real story here. Not just the fluff. The choice.

The first step is to assume a domestic rabbit outside needs help, especially if it looks unusually colored, fluffy, or human-socialized. Rabbit.org recommends securing the rabbit safely in a carrier or a pen setup, using food to lure it if needed, and contacting a rabbit-savvy rescue as soon as possible. They also warn that domestic rabbits are highly vulnerable outdoors and should not simply be left there. 

Some rescues start with sirens or headlines. This one started with a cream puff by the road and a family willing to stop.

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Related: Rescued Bunnies Hear Music for First Time and Their Reaction Is Pure Magic

Cats are curious by nature, and sometimes that curiosity leads them into situations they probably weren't expecting. For one house cat in Port Orchard, Washington, that meant coming face-to-face with a wild Bald Eagle.

The confident feline approaches the massive bird like it's no big deal, stepping closer as if he's sizing up something much smaller. But it doesn't take long for the situation to shift.

The moment was captured on video by Amanda Wiles, and it was shared on May 6 by @abc7chicago via Storyful:

At first, the Eagle barely reacts, standing his ground as the cat inches closer. But the second the distance closes, the Eagle spreads his wings and steps forward, making it very clear who's in charge.

That was enough.

The kitty quickly backs off and takes off running, ending the encounter before things could escalate any further. It's a split-second decision that likely made all the difference. I wouldn't want to mess with those talons either.

Related: Cat Walks up to a Hawk Expecting Pets and Gets Completely Ignored

Moments like this can look harmless at first.

Still, wildlife experts, including those with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, warn that birds of prey, like Bald Eagles, are powerful, protected raptors with sharp talons and beaks that can cause serious injury.

They're safeguarded under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and close encounters between domestic pets and wild raptors can quickly become dangerous for both animals.

Keeping pets indoors or supervised is the recommended best practice in areas where Eagles are active.

Viewers had plenty to say about the unexpected standoff.

"Cat clearly doesn't know he can go to jail for that," one person joked.

"If it were an Orange Cat, I wouldn't be worried," another added.

"The Eagle is like, 'OK, bud, 10/10 for attitude, but 0/10 chance I can let you get away with that,'" @highspeedncats wrote.

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In the end, it's one of those moments that could have gone very differently, but instead ends with a quick reminder: Sometimes curiosity meets its match.

It's a beautiful thing to witness two unlikely pets form an unbreakable bond. They're the best teachers in never judging a book by its proverbial cover and accepting those who are a little different than us.

A Yellow Lab named Coop had a best friend in Winston, the farm cat. They were inseparable. But when Winston went missing, Coop did the only thing he thought might bring the kitty home.

Hoping his little buddy finds his way home soon…. #labrador #labradorretriever #farmcat #bestfriends #catanddog

On May 10, Winston disappeared from @cedarandstonefarm, leaving sweet Coop wondering where he'd gone. The loyal, devoted, and steadfast Lab posted up in the yard to search for the Orange Cat he was missing so much.

For days, this is where Coop's family found him—with sorrow in his eyes, and hope in his heart that they would be reunited if only he stayed right there, waiting. Maybe the good boy thought, "If he comes home and I'm not here, he'll think I've gone, too."

So, he resigned himself to being the one thing he knew Winston would need: faithful.

Related: Lost Persian Cat Has the Sweetest Reunion With Mom After Days-Long Wilderness Adventure

With how deeply dogs feel, the story is a tearjerker—but dry your eyes because there's good news! After four long days and nights, another resident pup, Chester, alerted Mom and Dad to a surprise guest and led them straight to Winston!

The kitty was hungry and a little dirty, but otherwise in good shape considering what he must've gone through. Chester deserves a million treats for being such a good boy, because he gave Coop his best friend back. This is one happy ending for the record books!

Replying to @dmklott UPDATE!! Winston has returned home 🥹. Thank you so much for the kind words of support and tips. We’re happy to have him home… especially Coop ❤️ llabradorkkittenbbestfriendshhappyendinghappy

There's no doubt—dogs feel grief, sometimes just as intensely as we do, if not more. Whether their hearts break from mourning a friend who's crossed the Rainbow Bridge or vanished the way Winston did, pet parents can help them cope with a few compassionate strategies.

• Keep them on their regular routine. It gives them comfort and stability in an otherwise devastating time.
• Give them extra attention, cuddles, pets, and love. It won't heal them completely, but it does remind them that at least they still have you.
• Offer mentally, emotionally, and physically engaging activities to lessen their stress. These distractions aren't a cure-all either, but they might lessen their anxiety even for a little while.

Keeping things as normal as possible is one of the best things we can do for our hurting pets. And if they decide to keep watch (for however long) in case their friend comes home, let them—join them, even—and remind them that they're not alone, they're loved, and whether they get the reunion or not, they'll be OK.

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Ragdoll cats all have a very classic look. If you know anything about cats, you can probably pick a Ragdoll out of a lineup. They're just total icons, and they're the kind of cats that you might expect to see at a rich lady's upscale apartment.

Sometimes, however, there's a different type of Ragdoll cat to look at. For example, in this video, one man managed to get his hands on a Black Smoke Ragdoll kitten, which is just about the coolest thing you'll probably see all day:

#cat #catdaddy #pet #ragdollcat #cute

Luna is actually a Black Smoke Maine Coon/Ragdoll cross, which explains the epic coloring. Black fur is absolutely not naturally occurring in Ragdoll cats, so if you see one, they're crossed with something. No biggie, and they're still insanely beautiful, but that's just how it is.

Alreafy, you can see that Luna has all the makings of a beautiful cat. One hallmark of a Black Smoke Maine Coon is that super light "collar" (the tufts of fur around the neck), and she's already forming that. As she grows, she'll only get more majestic!

Related: Super Sweet ‘Polar Bear Maine Coon’ Has the Prettiest Fur

She's tiny now, but she will not be that way for very long. Maine Coons and Ragdolls are both larger breeds, with Maine Coons being particularly large. She's already growing up quite a bit: she basically takes up her dad's whole torso.

My sleepy little fur baby #cat #catdaddy #pet #ragdollcat

She's awesome. I can't wait to see what kind of kitty she grows up to be! She's also an only cat, which means all of the attention, love, and treats are solely devoted to her. That's exactly how life should be!

Both Maine Coons and Ragdolls are affectionate, outgoing cats who love adventure and spending time with the people they love. If you're looking for a cat who makes the best companion ever, then the Maine Coon/Ragdoll cross is for you.

Image via Shutterstock / Esin Deniz

Maine Coon/Ragdolls can be a great pet for apartment living or life in a house; it all depends on how much enrichment they have. An apartment cat with plenty of places to climb and an attentive parent will be perfectly happy. Enrichment is key with this intelligent, adventurous breed. You can try things like:

• Games of fetch.
• Occasional supervised outside time.
• Scavenger hunts for their favorite treats.
• Making obstacle courses.

Luna's dad cares a lot about her, luckily, and she has everything she needs. It's a win-win: she gets lots of love, and he gets a gorgeous cat that all of his friends will be jealous of!

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Outdoor dog houses can cost a few hundred dollars. Making your own will costs only a fraction of that, and all you have to do is spend one afternoon making it.

Tires are a popular and versatile material for DIY upcycling projects. Durable and weather-resistant, they can be transformed into a useful item.

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In a YouTube Short, we see how two old truck tires can be transformed into something your furry friend will love.

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/RkWoYIqr3GM

They sat in a backyard half-buried in mud until one man decided to do something. Piece by piece, the result was a polished dog house.

Everything starts with the foundation, and in this case, that was the lower tire. Then you attach a thick wooden disc beneath the structure to lift it slightly off the ground. The result is a stable base.

The second tire goes on top, bolted securely into place. The entrance is created where the two tires meet, allowing for a large entryway for a dog to pass through comfortably.

The navy-blue paint and paw prints give this DIY dog house character.

Related: Dog Left Behind in Empty House Quietly Chooses Her New Human

One commenter raised a worthy concern: Is it actually safe for dogs to spend time inside old tires? He asked, "Clever idea. But is it safe for the pup to breathe all that tire off gassing?" one viewer asked.

It is a fair question. Tires can contain chemicals and oils that release odors over time. But this is where preparation matters. If you want to try a similar project, deep-cleaning and degreasing the tires is crucial. Then use encapsulating paint and a clear coating to ensure your dog is safe.

Also, don't forget that proper ventilation is key. Make sure to open a big enough entrance for air to flow.

The finished dog house is more than a shelter. Pet parents can create a durable, heavy-duty solution for dogs who love spending time outdoors.

There is something satisfying about making something useful out of discarded materials. In the video, the dog took one sniff and claimed it as his own.

So, the next time you look at some leftover garage junk, wondering whether to throw it or recycle it, think about this video.

Related: Dog Rescued by Famous Foster Mom Gets Most Perfect 'Barbie Dream House' Forever Home