Parade Pets

Stray cats are notorious for causing chaos. It's what they do, because, really... what else is there for them to do? 

Stray cats take over neighborhoods and will enter just about any home, especially if it smells like there's food there. On Saturday, February 3rd, one woman showed off the Universal Cat Distribution hard at work:

Pt.2 #catdistributionsystem #fypシ #fyp #viral #burgular

Mya Nelson did the right thing by not letting this adorable cat stay with her forever, but I bet it was very tempting. I know I would be tempted!

Related: Stray Cat Bringing Her Litter of Kittens Home for Lunch Is Too Sweet

The Bengal cat in this video sees that Mya is about to enter her home, and he wants in: he walks up to her and literally pushes her door open. It's just about the most obnoxious thing you'll ever see, and it's glorious. After walking around her house for a couple of minutes, he finally decides he can leave, and he's just gone.

He walked into Mya's house with a lot of confidence, and that makes me feel like it's definitely not the first time he's pulled a stunt like this: this cat probably lives in a house and frequents other houses. As someone in the comments pointed out, he looks like a Bengal: a popular cat breed, and Bengals are often bought from breeders for a hefty price. It's unlikely that an expensive, designer breed would just be turned loose as a true stray: rather, he's most likely just an indoor-outdoor cat. 

Just like you wouldn't let your dog loose to wander, you shouldn't let your cat out unsupervised, either. A cat who's been let outside can walk for miles, stopping along the way for shelter or food in other people's homes. Some swear outdoor cats are better: you don't have to spend as much time potty-training them. You also don't have to worry as much about providing enrichment: they can go outside for that.

What you do have to worry about, though, are things like injury, pregnancy, death, disease, and theft. I mean, that cat just walked into Mya's house. If she had simply shut the door and said, "this is my cat now," there would be nothing anyone could do - especially if the cat never went outside and therefore was never seen again. 

The "Universal Cat Distribution System" is a trend on social media lately, where people see a cat on the road or in their yard and scoop it up. They assume the "system" has chosen them, that it's meant to be. However, how many of these cats already have homes? If at all possible (and it's usually possible), keep your cats inside and allow them outside on leashes!

Taking our dogs to the beach is one of the best things do to on a warm, clear day. They get to run around and have fun, and we get a beach day. What could be better than that?

On Saturday, February 3rd, one dog got to go to the beach, and she had more fun than should fit in her tiny little body:

Replying to @noot.noot Secert Tunnel! #minidachshundpuppy #minidachshund #puppy #fyp #puppiesoftiktok #dogsoftiktok #beach #fyp

Ahsoka the Mini Dachshund is living her absolute best life on the beach. That's a very impressive tunnel - and an even more impressive zoom!

Related: Mini Dachshund’s Adorably Intense Gaming Proves Not All 'iPad Babies' Are Human

Ahsoka probably didn't dig that tunnel on her own, though she probably got it started. Regardless of how it came to be, that tunnel is her new favorite toy: she loves to zoom in and out of it. She always enters through one side and exits through the other. It's amazing. She's very fast!

Judging by the fact that her little paws are bare, it must not have been too hot that day. Though you can take your pup to the beach on a hot day, they should be wearing booties: the hot sand can burn their paws. 

Back when the breed was first conceived in the late 1800s, German hunters were actively looking for a smaller dog that could help them hunt. Regular Dachshunds are great hunting dogs as well, but they're too big to go after rabbits and badgers, which were very popular animals to hunt and sell at the time.

So, they started breeding smaller Dachshunds together. That produced the small, weenie-like dog we see today, and that dog is perfect for chasing rabbits. Their little legs can carry them up to 20mph for short stints: they follow the rabbits into their tunneled den, lock on, and drag them back out. 

Ahsoka has never been hunting in her life, but that doesn't mean those genes have left her: just look at that zoom. She knows exactly what to do in a tunnel! When you have a dog that was bred for tunnel hunting, providing activities that allow them to use those skills is important. Pop-up tubes or tunnels made from couch cushions can both be an excellent source of enrichment for your pup!

Tunneling through the sand is something that anxious dog parents might be wary of, but the tunnel Ahsoka is running through seems perfectly stable. There's nothing wrong with letting your dog dig in the sand, but if you're at a public beach, make sure you put it back the way you found it when you leave. Otherwise, people or other animals could stumble upon it and potentially get hurt!

Some people might not think that dogs are smart, but pet parents know better. We've seen firsthand just how intelligent these creatures can be, and that includes emotional intelligence. Somehow, our pets just know when we're sad and in need of cheering up and offer up a cuddle. And there's no denying the sweet bonds they form with their people and even other animals. Dogs can have best friends, and many believe that they can even form lasting, more romantic bonds, too. 

If you're not a believer, you might become one after you see this video. A happy dog was reunited with his girlfriend after a long separation, and the way he ran to her when he saw her is making people emotional. It's clear that there's a lot of love between these two pups!

the couple is reunited 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰 took him a sec to realize who it was hahahhahaha but best day ever for him

On Saturday, February 3, @loren_monte shared the sweetest video of her dog (who appears to be a Golden Retriever) running across the park as soon as he sees his girlfriend, a smaller dog, arrive so they could see each other for the first time in almost two months. 

"Took him a sec to realize who it was," the dog's mom wrote in her caption, adding that it was the "best day ever for him." 

But it looks like he figured it out pretty quickly, judging by how fast he booked it over to that fence... and how they immediately started running around and playing together in the dog park as if no time at all had passed.

As humans, we have our own concept of time and know all too well that when we're separated from someone we love, two months can feel like an eternity. But is that how dogs feel, too?

According to PetMD, dogs perceive time differently than humans, and instead mark time by changes around them — how light or dark it is outside, when they're fed, what their humans are doing. They can't tell quite how much time has passed, but thanks to their olfactory memory, scent can help them figure out a rough idea over longer periods of time.

An hour to us feels like about 75 minutes to them, because of the way their higher metabolism allows them to judge the passage of time.

So next time you leave for vacation without your dog, just remember that they won't know exactly how long you were gone, but they will be very glad to see you whether it was a weekend or a month.

Depending on where you live, bald eagle sightings are typically pretty rare. In southern California, for instance, your chances of spotting one in the wild are slim, to say the least.  

But what you can do is watch a livestream of a famous bald eagle couple nesting in Big Bear, California, who have actually gained global attention over the past few years as they raise their young. As we see in this clip from CBS, Jackie and Shadow are currently protecting a clutch of three new eggs and the footage is really fascinating to see. 

A bald eagle couple in California is gaining global attention as it cares for a clutch of three eggs in its nest above Big Bear. #news #bigbear #california #eagles

I'm a huge fan of birds, so watching this livestream is a real treat as far as I'm concerned. Plus, I've only seen a bald eagle once in my life, and it was in Northern California where it's a little more common. Big Bear is definitely Southern California, so the fact that these two are up there thriving is amazing to see. 

Related: Story of Rescued Bald Eagle Named 'Tiptoe' Is Capturing People's Hearts

It's so cool seeing them take turns protecting the eggs, too, like they're literally taking shifts. Nature is wild and can obviously be brutal, which means there's no shortage of predators to ward off when protecting these eggs. It's a tough job and as we learn in the video, their success rate over the years unfortunately hasn't been great. My fingers are crossed that these eaglets grow up to be majestic bald eagles just like their parents. 

Don't say I didn't warn you, but watching the live stream is sort of addicting. Even when one of them are simply laying there—whether in the snow, the rain, a beautiful day... whatever—it's honestly extremely relaxing. 

At any given moment you'll find thousands upon thousands of folks tuned in watching these eagles live their lives, and there really is never a dull moment. It's like Mother Nature's version of The Truman Show. 

Additionally, the folks at 'Friends of Big Bear Valley' provide written updates every few days on their website that take readers on an in-depth journey as to what we're actually watching, while mentioning any exciting and important updates. 

As I write this, the most recent blog update was posted on February 4, 2024 and said: 

"Shadow can really make us smile when there are eggs on the nest and he wants to incubate. Friday morning he arrived early on the high perch awaiting his turn on the eggs. Our dear Jackie was ready for a break and he was ready to give her one! They chortled long and loud about something that sounded important then completed their switcheroo. Shadow finally got to lay on the eggs again!"

And that "switcheroo" is exactly what we saw in the video above. So cool! 

"Jackie returned after enjoying some time away but she had to give Shadow a few love nibbles which helped get him moving up and out. He came back with a great stick that still had snow piled on it to add to their collection. Jackie seemed impressed and once again they switched places incubating the eggs."

The nest is located in Big Bear Valley in the San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California, and it's about 145 feet up in a Jeffrey Pine tree. 

I can't help but leave the livestream on in the background now and simply love observing these birds in their natural habitat. It's just so cool. And the suspense is killing me! 

What will they do next!? Well, I suppose we just have to keep on watching. Either way, this is pure entertainment if you ask me. 

*This live feed is owned and operated by Friends of Big Bear Valley, (a 501c3 nonprofit organization) and we're thrilled that they've given the public an opportunity to witness these beautiful birds in such an intimate way.

Having a dog doesn’t always turn out exactly the way we planned. Many pet parents report having strict rules before getting their four-legged child, which are all but forgotten by day three. Whether this is sharing your food, bed, or parts of your home, they have a way of changing our minds.

Case in point, one pair of pups decided the bay window in the family's home serves another purpose. Although not the original intention, this design adaptation offers even more.

Check out this sweet transformation in a video shared on January 23:

One day we had plants, the next we didn’t. Watch to see the event that changed it all 👀 Did we then make them a custom window cushion? Yes we did. Did we then frost the windows so they couldn’t people watch TOO much? Also yes. Did we then feel bad? Yes to that too.

These adorable pooches (@milliethecitydood) turned their parents’ beautiful bay window into their bed in less than a year. They didn’t seem to mind sharing the space with some lovely houseplants. They look so cute relaxing around them in the sun. It's even more adorable to see them looking out of the window from below on the road. However, as we can see in one clip, there was an unfortunate casualty. Their faces seem to say, “Oh, no! “as the plant crashes to the floor. At least it was caught on camera and their parents could tell they felt bad about breaking it. It was this broken pot that sparked the re-design of this window. Perhaps, it wasn't a mistake after all.

Related: German Shorthaired Pointer’s Funny Way of Looking Out the Window Is Just Unreal

This looks like an ideal spot to take a nap. Their parents share their dogs’ love of this space, and the broken plants prompted them to come up with a new plan. They had a custom-built cushion created to fit the spot so that their beautiful dogs could sleep comfortably. They also frosted the windows so that they couldn’t, “People watch too much.” Which, unfortunately, made them feel a little bad. However, as most dog parents can attest, it’s sometimes better than having them bark at strangers all day long.

People could relate to these custom sleeping accommodations. Viewer @SamanthaDonovan remarked, “Basically every surface in my house is now either a dog bed or a cat bed.” That’s the truth! What’s theirs belongs to them and what’s ours is theirs too. Although, it’s never hard to give up our things or space for our beloved pups.

There isn’t anything pet parents wouldn’t do for their kids. Though this family may no longer have houseplants, what they now have is even better. Ant that's two happy dogs who now have a lovely view of the city.

The loyalty our dogs show us knows no bounds. They are by our side during the most wonderful and most difficult times of our lives, offering us unwavering support. However, when we bring a new family member into the mix, there can be concerns about how the first child will react.

Fortunately, dogs seem to understand that they must take care of the newest addition to the pack. At least that’s the case with this beautiful Golden Retriever and her baby sister.

This video from February 1 shows off their truly heartwarming bond.

She wants to protect her lil sis🐶♥️👶🏻 #babyanddog #clingypet #sisters #fyp #dogsoftiktok

Lady is just the best big sister! Her mom explains that when she was pregnant with her daughter, her loyal pup would not leave her side. She shares a clip from a video where Dad was trying to take her on a walk, but she would not go. However, now that her sister has arrived, that has all changed. Although Mom may have been her number one, her sibling now holds this very coveted spot.

Related: Golden Retriever Is the Most Perfect Gentleman When Taking Treats From His Baby Sister

If this was a video for an old country song, it would be Tim McGraw singing, “Don’t Take the Girl.” She’s very upset that Dad has taken her baby into the woods without her. She barks in protest and doesn’t seem to know exactly what to do. Although she’s a good pup and is listening to commands, she’s upset her baby is no longer in sight. Why has Dad taken her favorite human away? Thankfully, they aren’t separated for long. Once reunited with her tiny sister, she wears a big smile on her face. She joyfully runs along behind her as she’s pulled through the snow in the sled.

This beautiful baby seems to have an equal love for her first dog and friend. The smile on her face when Lady snuggles her head on top of hers is precious. Perhaps dogs love their new siblings so immensely because they are a combination of their two favorite humans. Without ever being told, they know just how important they are.

The mutual affection touched viewers. One person remarked, “I want to be loved by someone who loves me like Lady loves her little sister.” It’s as wonderful and pure as love gets and it’s something everyone should have an opportunity to experience. Viewer @_blankpaper_ responded, “When she turned around and realized that they were already gone. Broke my heart. Oh Lord, this kind of relationship is so gorgeous.” That it is.

While it may be upsetting to no longer be your dog’s number one, it must also feel good to know how much they love and will protect your child. Only dogs can break and fill our hearts in such an amazing way.

Do you go out of your way to feed your dogs a healthy diet? Many pet parents make an effort to make sure they are eating only the best. Whether we buy a top-quality brand or prepare their meals ourselves, they often eat better than we do.

However, some foods we think of as healthy might be the best choice for our four-legged friends. In fact, one popular vegetable can hinder calcium absorption and damage kidneys.

See why it may be best to skip this leafy green in a video from January 31:

Do you feed your dog spinach? #dogmom #goldendoodle #veggies

TikTok creator @memydoodsandi explains that she recently went to a new vet where she was given a list of items that could be problematic for dogs to consume. Much to her surprise, this list included not just garlic, but also spinach. 

Related: Veterinarians Share 6 Human Foods That Are Highly Toxic to Dogs in Viral Video

Although this leafy green may be considered a superfood because of its high nutrient content of vitamins like A and C, it also contains oxalate or oxalic acid, which is believed to be an anti-nutrient. This is because when oxalates are consumed in high quantities, they can bind to minerals like calcium, which can lead to kidney damage. While considered safe if consumed in small quantities, veterinarians.org recommends cooking the spinach first. “Raw spinach is not advisable since it may cause digestive discomfort to the dog. This is because raw spinach is not as digestible as cooked spinach. If you give raw spinach, especially in large amounts, to your dog, it may not be properly digested in the gut and cause indigestion.” Cooking spinach can also help to reduce the oxalates it contains.

Although some people think garlic in small quantities is safe and beneficial for dogs, the veterinarians at VCA Animal Hospital say that no amount is safe. They explain the oxidizing agents inside allium cause oxidative hemolysis of red blood cells, making them toxic in any form. They recommend, “Never give food seasoned with onions or garlic to your dog. Fence off gardens and plant beds containing onions, garlic, chives, or leeks. Dispose of leftovers containing these ingredients in an area where pets do not have access.” With so many other options to boost their immune system, and naturally prevent fleas, why even take the chance?

If your dog enjoys eating spinach, you can still offer them this vegetable in smaller and cooked quantities without concern (in most cases). However, it’s probably still best to skip the garlic.

Big dogs may be a little safer than little ones when it comes to things like being seen when they're lost, holding their own against predators, and being swept up and stolen. There is one thing that absolutely no animal is safe from, however: choking hazards. 

On Thursday, February 1st, one dog mom shared a genius hack to keep her Dalmatian from choking on his favorite yak chew, and it's perfect:

PSA: microwave your dogs yak chews when they get this small! #dog #dogs #dogtreats #yakchew #yakchewmicrowaved

Ryder the Dalmatian definitely seems to be enjoying his new-and-improved chew toy. It's like a 2-for-1 special!

Related: Dalmatian Puppy Gets the 'Zoomies' Before Bed and It's Pure Joy

When you buy a yak chew, they're big, long sticks that are great for their teeth. Though they can be chewed apart, they're super hard and take quite a while for even the most aggressive chewers to get through, eventually winding up as a little nub that we have to discard. It's a choking hazard: it's just too hard to chew sufficiently, and when it's that small, your dog will be more inclined to just swallow it. Even if they don't choke, it can cause a bowel obstruction. 

Sandra's solution is simple and genius: microwaving it. There are a few steps:

1. Soak the yak chew in water for a few minutes first to soften it up. Some water stay in the chew and helps it to "bubble up" in the microwave. 
2. Microwave it for 1 minute. Don't go longer. You do not want to smell burnt yak.
3. Let it cool completely before giving it to your dog.

When you microwave a wet yak chew, it expands in the heat, turning it into more of a "yak-puff." By aerating it, it becomes crispy and flakey instead of chewy and hard; even if your dog puts the whole thing in its mouth, it will crumble. They can have the whole thing without fear of choking. 

Yak chews are basically hardened yak cheese: they're mostly made from yak milk and salt that is left to age for a long time. These chews are great for their teeth, since they're hard and encourage rigorous chewing and scraping that removes plaque.

They're also a better alternative to things like rawhide, which has been known to cause serious obstructions in pups. Though yak chews also carry this risk when they're small enough, it at least takes them longer to get there. They're also less likely to splinter like other treats. 

As long as you don't over-microwave the yak chew nub, there will be no lasting smell in your microwave or your house. One minute is plenty!

As pet parents, we know that all dogs are different. Some are mature, buttoned-up and downright intelligent, while others are goofy, clumsy and... not so intelligent. We love them either way, though—that's what matters.  

And while I admit that I feel sort of bad laughing at the "oopsie" that you're about to witness in this silly video, at the same time, what do you expect!? This German Shepherd was being such a good boy, but his Doodle brother had other plans... Take a look!

You wanted it with the original sound … here it is 🤣 #doodle #garbage #buck #americasfavoritepet #germanshepherd #ohno

I have to admit, my initial thought when first seeing this video was, "Wow! That's seriously awesome! There's nothing cooler than teaching dogs how to basic tasks around the house!" I mean, everything is a game for them, so why not pepper in a few chores to that routine? They love it! I have to imagine that German Shepherd was feeling pretty proud. 

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

But what happens shortly after is obviously why we're here. That Doodle had no concern about what his brother was holding in his mouth, he just knew he was going to run full speed into it without hesitation. And as we witnessed—boom!—there goes the entire bag of trash. Siblings, right?

German Shepherds are intelligent, loyal and dedicated companions who are always willing to learn something new, which are just a few reasons they're so globally adored. 

Originally bred for herding sheep, these talented dogs make great family pets if you have the time to invest in them. A little training and dedication will truly go a long way with this breed. They might even help with chores. 

As tough and protective as they can be, German Shepherds genuinely enjoy the company of their family and can actually struggle with separation anxiety. They're not naturally aggressive, either, but their protective instinct means they can be hesitant when first meeting strangers. 

That's why German Shepherd puppy training is extremely important. It's best to get started when the dog is about 8 weeks old, because if they aren't given structured training from early on, these pups will quickly make their own rules—which could be pretty problematic. 

Again, due to the breed’s loyal nature, German Shepherds can get pretty defensive around strangers at first, which is why it’s so important to prioritize socialization. Puppies should be introduced to new people, places and experiences early on to ensure they'll be the kind, loving dogs we know they can be. 

That said, German Shepherds are eager to please and can be sensitive to your reactions. It’s therefore best to focus on praising "good" behavior and typically ignoring “bad” behavior. The good thing is, they're very owner-focused, and actually pretty willing to engage in obedience training.

At the end of the day, it's their intelligence and loyalty that really attracts so many dog-lovers to this breed. From important police and military roles to famous Hollywood icons (like Rin Tin Tin), these dogs are adored by all walks of life, as they should be. 

I know they sometimes get a bad rap, but haven't we learned by now that you should never judge a book by its cover? These pups are ready to love and be loved as much as the next dog. That's why any German Shepherd would make a great addition to any family. 

The phrase, "living your best life" gets thrown around a lot these days. And as much as I'd like to assume it's always true, it's usually just a subtle exaggeration of sorts... and hey, that's fine. 

But I'll tell you what—this little Frenchie truly is living his best life. In this adorable video posted on TikTok, we get a sneak peak at his downright bougie self-care morning routine, and it's making me feel some type of way, that's for sure. 

He’s really this excited every morning 😍 #frenchie

I hate to admit that this little pup's daily routine is so much more impressive than mine, but I mean, it is. In fact, it's way more impressive. I don't think I've ever been so inspired by a dog to make some serious, personal lifestyle changes, but hey... here we are. And you know what? I love it. 

Related: Frenchie Who Only Drinks 'Bougie' Water Is Such an Adorable Mood

The best part is how genuinely excited he is about it, though. Not all dogs enjoy being pampered like this, but this Frenchie knows he's the star of the show. This is clearly his world and he wouldn't have it any other way. I mean, seriously, this is like a proper day at the spa! I'm surprised he doesn't have a little doggy robe to nap in after all that exhausting pampering. 

If you're looking for a world-class lapdog with the cutest little face and personality ever, a Frenchie might be right up your alley. There's a lot that makes these pups so desirable, which is why they're known to be such incredible companions. 

Believe it or not, French Bulldogs are surprisingly good watch dogs. They aren't yappy, but they’ll certainly bark to let you know if someone’s at the door. And while the breed can be a little territorial, that’s pretty much where their job ends—don’t expect them to be an actual guard dog. 

They're extremely adaptable dogs as well. From an apartment to a country home, they'll love anywhere as long as you're there. 

Despite a reputation for stubbornness, they’re eager to please and do enjoy being the center of attention, which makes them relatively easy to train as well. In fact, turn "training" into a game and you're golden! They love to play. 

They might not be the most athletic pups, but they have their moments. 

That said, there are some health concerns to keep in mind with Frenchies, as their short face and smaller nose can make breathing difficult and less efficient. Because of this, they have a low tolerance for heat, humidity, and even too much exercise.

Just make sure they're kept cool in hot weather (preferably in an air-conditioned space) and you'll really have nothing to worry about. 

On the heels of that, just know that these cute little pups generally snore a lot as well. Pretty loudly. But whether you find it annoying, amusing, or oddly comforting depends on your tolerance (and sense of humor).

Either way, Frenchies have been admired and sought after for hundreds of years, and they truly epitomize the idea of a "companion dog." They're great for all walks of life as well—from singles to couples, families, children and beyond. 

And don't worry... they'll still love you even if you don't follow a high-maintenance morning routine like this. But hey, if you have the time and resources, go for it! Life is short. Treat yourself (and your pup)! 

It’s not always easy to tell when our dogs need a bath, apart from those times, when their fragrance wafts across the room at us. It isn't hard to figure it out when that happens!

If they remain clean and dry, how long can they go without having a bath? This veterinarian’s guidance will help you keep them on schedule. 

Check out his easy-to-follow advice in this video from February 2:

How often you should be bathing your dogs !! #dogs #vet #dance #learning #doglover

Dr. Amir Anwary reports our dogs should receive baths at least once every 3 months. More ideally, he explains, is once a month. If we wash them more frequently, he reveals, “Bathing too after (1x per week) strips natural oils.” He also notes this can vary based on individual needs. The American Kennel Club reports that short-haired dogs like Weimaraners and Beagles require baths less frequently than oily-coated breeds like Bassett Hounds. While breeds like Golden Retrievers, they say, can go longer because of their water-repellent coat. Even though thick-coated dogs like an Alaskan Malamute can go even longer without a bath, they require more brushing.

Related: Give Your Dog a Bath

It’s important to use a shampoo made for dogs with the correct pH level for their coat and skin. It doesn’t matter where you start to wash, as long as you get everything all suds up. Just be sure to keep their eyes free from soapy water. Something like a flea and tick shampoo might recommend using it monthly and keeping it on for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing off. Shampoos prescribed by your veterinarian might even ask you to bathe them once or twice weekly, for an extended period each time. If your dogs aren't fans of taking a bath, you can try bringing high-value treats to make the experience more exciting.

Once you finish washing, be sure to dry your dog thoroughly with a towel. If the weather is nice, you can get warm in the sun. I always try to avoid bathing my dogs on damp gray days to help their coats dry faster. You can also use a hairdryer on the lowest setting to ensure the heat does not burn them. However, not all dogs are fans of this device. Bathing your dog should be a fun experience for them, so if they’re fearful of a hairdryer, it’s probably best to pass. 

It’s always best to ask your veterinarian for guidance if you have questions or concerns. Even dogs of the same breed may have varying needs.

Sometimes having a dog is hauntingly similar to having a child. You pick up after them, feed them, love them... and at times, even argue with them.

Well, that's certainly the case with one stubborn, talkative Great Dane who recently spent his morning arguing with Mom, relentlessly reminding her, "It's time to go outside." And let me just say, the video of the 'argument' is hilarious. 

My very argumentative GREAT DANE! #greatdane

This big baby is cracking me up, but I really admire his persistence at the same time. He does not want to give up. And in fairness, a dog's daily walk (or even that first moment they're simply let outside in the morning) is pretty much the pinnacle of their day. He's ready to rock and roll! "What's the hold up, mom!?"

Related: Video of Guinea Pigs ‘Arguing’ Over a Lollipop Ends With a Clear Winner

I love when she says, "Look at your brother, he's being so nice," and he just replies with that gurgle-growl, like, "I don't care!" His eyes are so full of emotion, too. He just simply doesn't understand what the hold up is, and it's absolutely hysterical. This is definitely one of those videos where doggy subtitles would've been too perfect. 

Great Danes are big dogs with even bigger personalities. They thrive living with their family and bonding with all members, and don't just love physical contact—they need it desperately. 

These dogs pretty much can't be left alone for long hours due to their sensitive and gentle nature. That's why it's no surprise that cuddle time on the couch is typically when they feel the happiest (even though they'll certainly take up a lot more space than you in the process). 

They have the patience of a saint as well, and this applies particularly to children, which is why they’re fantastic family dogs. 

But keep in mind, as with all dogs, puppyhood is a challenging time for Great Danes. Because they grow quicker and stronger than most other breeds, destructive chewing can (and will) take a toll on your home interior. That's why training should really start as early as possible.

Obedience training is also very important, if anything simply due to their sheer size. You want your Dane to follow your commands with no hesitation. So just know that calm and consistent training is the key to success. 

Honestly, the biggest challenge will be their sensitivity. Yelling and disciplining them harshly can make them super depressed, which you obviously don't want. Have patience. It'll make both of you happier. 

Just know that Great Danes can be very stubborn, though, and require consistent training and constant repetitions. It's essential to put in the time with this breed. Otherwise, you're going to have a gigantic, clumsy, disobedient dog on your hands, which will not be much fun (for you).

Beyond their personality, they’re also an expensive breed, all things considered. Feeding them is demanding. Good quality food for an adult Dane would set you back quite a bit each month, which is something to keep in mind. 

That said, proper nutrition is crucial for this breed as certain foods can cause them to grow too quickly, which you want to avoid with larger breeds like these.

But hey, at the end of the day, they're absolute lovers and some of the most adored dogs on the planet. They're big, sure, but they have huge hearts as well. 

It's sort of like having a roommate, you know? A roommate that you have to give constant attention to, care for, feed, and again, at times... even argue with. 

I will say, however—this was one of the cutest debates I've ever seen. And I'd personally sit there and debate all day if I could. Whether he knows it or not, the joyful little tail wag tells all. 

Animals know what safety feels like, that's just a fact. Animals know when they feel safe, they know when they're finally somewhere they can just slow down and relax. Many animals don't start their lives feeling that way, and a lucky few are rescued just in time. 

On Saturday, February 3rd, one sanctuary shared the story of how they were able to rescue all 3 members of a goat family, and it's just amazing:

This goat family is extra special 🫶 Born on a freezing day in January 2018, Loll lost both back feet & the ends of her ears to frostbite. We were able to rescue her and her mom, and later, reunite them with dad Merlin. Now Lolli gets to spend every day at our farm animal sanctuary, gently playing, running in her custom wheelchair, and nuzzling with her beautifully connected family. #goattok #rescuedanimals #farmanimalsanctuary

The Gentle Barn is one of my favorite animal sanctuaries ever. They don't discriminate: they'll rescue anyone who needs a home, and I think that's just beautiful. 

Related: Animal Sanctuary Shows Off New Baby Goats and Asks for Help Naming Them

According to the caption, the two female goats (Lolli and her mom, Minnie Mae) were rescued in December of 2018 by The Gentle Barn's Tennessee sanctuary. Lolli was just a baby, and they were left in the cold without heat, which resulted in frostbite for Lolli that ended up costing her both back feet the tips of her ears. 

Lolli's dad, Merlin, was rescued by TGB a little bit later: the same man who had informed the sanctuary that Minnie-Mae and Lolli needed some help was the one who mentioned that Merlin was the patriarch of the family. In an effort to keep the entire family together, the sanctuary reached out to the farmer, and they agreed to let them take Merlin in! Now, all three of them are together and happy as can be!

Not only are goats some of the cutest farm animals ever, they're incredibly smart and even more loyal. A mama goat will recognize her kid's cry for a long time - even longer if they're kept together. While male goats aren't particularly inclined to be parental, they are very social animals who form bonds with their herd-mates. 

Typically, male goats are separated from their female partners when they're kidding to make the process smoother for everyone involved. That was probably why Merlin was not around when Minnie Mae and Lolli were rescued. However, once the kid is grown and the mother has recovered from birth, they can be reintroduced into their herds, and the father is no longer at risk of causing harm.

According to TGB, Merlin in also just the nicest, most affectionate goat anyone could ever ask for. Not only does he love running and playing with Minnie-Mae and Lolli, but he loves all the attention he can possibly get from humans (and all the treats!). What a perfect little family this is!

The big game is so close, and once again, it's down to the Chiefs and the 49ers: just like in 2020. Though a lot of people watch the Super Bowl to watch the game, there are a lot of people just tuning in for the commercials!

The lineup of adorable animals is already pretty stacked, but Budweiser wants to throw their hat into the ring, too. On Wednesday, January 31st, Budweiser dropped a new Super Bowl ad, and it's precious:

Oh, stop it. Cute horses and an adorable Yellow Lab saving the day? Budweiser has me hook, line, and sinker. 

Related: Budweiser Clydesdales Welcome Brand New Family Member

The commercial is centered around the idea that Budweiser has been delivering quality beer, no matter the circumstances, since 1876. In the ad, the power goes out and it's super snowy - good thing they have the Clydesdales! They hitch them up to a beer wagon and go on their way - with the help of a Yellow Labrador Retriever, of course. 

The Budweiser Clydesdales are positively iconic, and they've been in Super Bowl commercials for years. These Clydesdales are bred all over the country, though the biggest facility is at Warm Springs Ranch in Boonville, Missouri. The ranch hosts events and tours, so anyone can buy tickets to meet the Clydesdales (though I would pay extra to meet the Lab)!

Beer was most likely delivered around town on horse-drawn carts when the company was founded in 1876, since the "modern" car didn't even come onto the scene until the late 1880s. However, it wasn't these iconic horses they were using.

The Budweiser Clydesdales can be traced back to 1933, when the owner of Anheuser-Busch was gifted 6 of them in celebration of the end of Prohibition (1920-1933). These horses are large and in-charge; they command respect and attention, so the company took that and ran. They purchased another six-horse hitch, and they went on tour!

Since the beginning of the tradition, Budweiser has bred more Clydesdales in several states: now, they have about 250 total horses, and more foals are born every year at their facilities. That's a lot of horsepower!

This Super Bowl ad won't be the Clydesdales' first: they've been appearing in Super Bowl commercials since 1975. When they're not busy being TV stars, these iconic horses can be found on tour, in parades, or just chilling in the barn. Please gallop responsibly!

A cat adoption center in New Jersey is running a fundraiser that lets people donate money to name a feral cat after your ex and then spay or neuter it.

Homeward Bound Pet Adoption Center, an adoption center located in New Jersey, is running a Valentine's Day fundraiser right now, generating a lot of attention. Take a look!

A post shared by Homeward Bound Pet Adoption (@homewardboundnj)

The center's fundraiser is looking to raise money for feral cats to give them a procedure that will be best for their health.

Related: Formerly Feral Cat Finally Feels Safe After Getting a Kitten to Care For

And the Homeward Bound Pet Adoption Center has found a way to do both while offering people a funny and unique Valentine's Day Gift.

The shelter is offering to "neuter your ex." The promotion asks for a $50 donation where they will name a feral cat after your ex and then neuter or spay that cat.

"It's absolutely taken off," Eric Schwartz, director of development for Homeward Bound Pet Adoption Center, told CBS News.

Adding, "A group of us were in a meeting talking about some fun ways to raise money over Valentine's Day. We were discussing a petagram. A board member mentioned that an idea had come through a volunteer about 'neuter your ex.'"

"So it's just kind of taken off, and we're certainly appreciative of the attention that it can bring to these animals."

The shelter has a few promotion guidelines, including "Please note that full names will not be used. First names or nicknames only."

The center has shared its promotions on social media, along with the tagline, "because some things shouldn't breed," and in the comments, people have some feelings.

"Love this," one person wrote.

"Awesome idea," someone else shared.

"Best idea ever," added another.

"I am audibly belly laughing at my phone [right now.] This is amazing," someone else wrote.

According to The Humane Society of the United States, it's important to consider spaying or neutering your cat for their own health.

"The average lifespan of spayed and neutered cats and dogs is demonstrably longer than the lifespan of those not," the agency explains, adding details and a study that shows this is the case.

A study "conducted by Banfield Pet Hospitals on a database of 2.2 million dogs and 460,000 cats found that "spayed female cats in the study lived 39% longer and neutered male cats lived 62% longer."

Another reason is that it helps reduce some forms of cancer, including "developing pyometra (a potentially fatal uterine infection) and uterine, mammary gland and other cancers of the reproductive system." 

For male pets, neutering "eliminates their risk of testicular cancer and eliminates the possibility of developing benign prostatic hyperplasia, which can affect the ability to defecate."

This fundraiser is definitely giggle-worthy, but it's for a great cause!

An elderly, deaf dog is getting all the praise he deserves. He is hailed as a hero for alerting his family to a fire, ensuring all five safely made it out of the home. 

On January 29, a Blue Heeler named Dakota saved the lives of his family, including his two human parents and their three kids. Here's what happened.

The family, who live in Arkansas, were woken up by their dog, who likely saved all their lives that night.

Related: Make Sure Your Local Fire Department Has These Pet-Saving Kits

According to KARK News, Mike and Jennifer Geurian are actually volunteer firefighters in Hector, Arkansas, where they live. And one night, their home caught fire.

Their dog, a ten-year-old, deaf Blue Heeler named Dakota, was the only one awake when the whole family had gone to bed. And if he wasn't there, authorities say the already traumatic event could have been worse.

"I believe Dakota is the difference between them being alive and them not being," Hector Fire Chief Jake Jones shared with the news station.

“I remember waking up, and I remember I was shaken, and you know we were all scared, and I didn’t quite register what was all going on until we had gotten out,” Jennifer shared with the news station.

“My kids, you know, were all crying, and in the end, we were thankful that it was [Dakota] who woke us up and got us out.”

Dakota couldn't hear the fire flames, but he could see and smell the fire, and he knew to get his parents. Thankfully, his quick actions allowed Mike, Jennifer, and their three kids to escape the home without injuries.

“Well, one, I learned exactly how fast it can turn and just being a helping hand to those who need it and just try to give back what the community has given to me,” Jennifer shared. 

According to Dogster, the Blue Heeler is an Australian cattle dog that has been a big part of the country for over a century. They were officially recognized in the United States in the '80s, and they're known for their gray-blue color and shape.

"The combination of intelligence, stunning color, and distant origins have given the Blue Heeler a sort of mystique that is attracting a lot of people’s attention right now," the publication explains.

The dogs grow to be medium-sized and are very intelligent, loyal, playful, and full of energy.

"Blue Heelers can make good pets in the right situation, but they primarily remain working dogs and should be treated as working dogs for the best result," Dogster adds.

We're so glad Dakota could be there for his family, and we hope he's been eating his favorite meal each night as a thank you since. 

The Perth Zoo in Australia has so much to celebrate!

On February 2, 2024, the zoo shared the news of the birth of an endangered Goodfellow's Tree Kangaroo. Take a look!

"Perth Zoo is jumping with joy to announce the birth of an endangered Goodfellow’s Tree Kangaroo!" the zoo shared in a news release posted to their website.

Related: Baby Kangaroo Bundled Up After Her First Bath Is Impossible to Resist

The baby Tree-Kangaroo was actually born last spring, but she's been growing carefully in her mom's pouch.

"The female joey was born about the size of a jellybean last spring to mum Kaluli and dad Huli and has been busy growing and developing inside her mum’s pouch," the zoo shared.

But, recently, the caretakers at the zoo were able to see the little one who was big enough to poke her head out of her mom's pouch.

"This week, while feeding Kaluli her breakfast, our keepers were delighted to see the little one pop her head out and take her first look at the world around her," the zoo added.

Holly Lewin, who works at the Perth Zoo as a Fauna Keeper, is excited about the new addition.

"We are thrilled to welcome another Goodfellow’s Tree Kangaroo baby, and even more excitingly, this joey is the first ever female born at Perth Zoo," she said.

Adding, “She is the fifth joey born here at Perth Zoo, and her arrival is a major milestone for the globally coordinated conservation program for Goodfellow’s Tree Kangaroos.

Holly said that the little joey still has "quite a bit of growing left to do in mom's pouch," but visitors might be able to see the head pop out briefly.

“We can’t wait to share more about her journey with the community as she continues to grow up!”

According to the World Wildlife Foundation, Tree-Kangaroos live in Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and in far north Queensland, Australia. They're described as looking like "a cross between a kangaroo and a lemur," and their numbers are dropping quickly.

Fact Animal says the Tree-Kangaroos can grow to weigh between 13 and 33 pounds and as tall as 35 inches, and there are 14 different tree kangaroo species. In the wild, they only live for around eight years but can thrive for 14 years when in captivity.

"Many species are now facing extinction as a result of deforestation, and there isn’t a lot of public awareness to support them," the site explains. "But with increased education both among local tribes and urban populations worldwide, a demand for their conservation is growing."

And experts are excited about this new joey born at the Perth Zoo.

“The birth of this joey is another example of how the work of good zoos, like Perth Zoo, can make a real tangible difference to wildlife and wild places,” Holly shared about the new little one at their zoo.

“We hope by watching this beautiful joey grow, the community will develop an appreciation for Goodfellow’s Tree Kangaroos and are inspired to help us with conservation for her cousins in the wild.”

We're excited to be able to watch her grow!

A family can breathe a sigh of relief thanks to an incredible K9 named Biza.

On February 1, 2024, The Auburn Police Department in Massachusetts shared an update on social media praising their K9 for locating a missing child. Here's what happened.

On Facebook, the Auburn MA Police Department shared an update following a missing child report on January 31.

Related: K9 Dog Totally Houses Mom's French Fries and It's Priceless

According to the police, at approximately 10:30 PM on January 31, they were alerted to a missing 12-year-old. The child left their home around 8:30 PM and was last seen around that time. 

The child's parent did not know where their child was, so the police were called to help. And they needed to find the child quickly.

"Due to the freezing temperatures and nature of the incident, numerous Auburn Police Officers and Troopers from the Massachusetts State Police converged on the area in an attempt to locate the child," the police shared on Facebook. "Detectives from the Auburn Police Department, Detective Bureau responded to assist as well."

The department also called in the help of their K9 police dog, Biza, and her partner, K9 officer David Llunggren. 

"Officer Ljunggren and his K9 partner Biza were deployed," the social share explained. "K9 Biza was able to pick up a scent and began to track the scent."

And thanks to this incredible duo, the child was found quickly. "K9 Biza was tracked for a length of over two miles and led officers to an area where evidence showed that the child had been present a short time earlier," the department explained.

"Officers converged on this area and located the child a short time later," they added. "The child was reunited with their family and is safe."

View the original article to see embedded media.

In the comments, K9 Biza got all the love and praise she deserves. 

"Great job, K-9 Officer Biza & Officer Ljunngren," a reader said.

"You are a rockstar! Nice job," wrote one person.

"Well done Biza, APD and all those involved!" someone else shared.

"Great work. So very happy the child was found safe," someone else added.

"Strong work, K9 Biza," another shared, "and thank you to all the officers and troopers responsible for this happy ending!" 

According to Sit Stay, police dogs can track scent because they have incredible noses.

"A dog’s nose has 300 million olfactory receptors, whereas the human nose only has 6 million," the site explains. "Not only do they have significantly more receptors for smell within the nose, but the portion of their brain devoted to smell is also nearly 40 times as large as ours."

But, of course, dogs still need to have some training to become K9 scent dogs. The first step is to do obedience training, and then the dogs move on to more tailored training to rely on their scent.

Some examples of how dogs are trained to follow scent, according to Sit Stay, include:

• Teaching the pups to recognize specific smells. "This includes introducing them to many forms of the smell, teaching them how to differentiate this smell between another and more."
• They also learn how to pick a specific scent while other scents are present. "This helps them in the future when it comes to blocking out other scents during their search."
• Dogs are also taken out to practice scent tracking while offering a lot of potential distractions so they can learn how to tune those out.

And other trainings include tracking scent from various locatons and then training them in real-life situations like "working in airports, schools, around vehicles, and more."

We're so thankful for Biza and her incredible nose, and that she was able to help the 12-year-old return home.

Corgi's are so good at training their humans. If they need something, they typically know how to get it. Sometimes it just takes a little begging. 

One adorable little Corgi named Morty recently found himself in a debacle of sorts, as a suitcase seemed to be the one thing between him and his comfort zone. And as we see in this hilarious video, he’s pretty much the cutest beggar ever:

Morty jumped down from the bed and started crying… we quickly realized that it was because he wanted us to move the luggage so he could sleep on the sofa… 😂 #dogsoftiktok #petsoftiktok

I have a friend who has a Corgi that acts like this all the time. So dramatic! I love it. And as always, I’m a huge fan of the doggy captions that Mom “translated” for us. I mean, that must be what he’s saying, right? And his little side eye simply adds to the cuteness. Poor little guy!

Related: Corgi Who Howls When She Eats Watermelon Couldn't Possibly Be Sweeter

But I think the best part of the situation is how only a few moments later, he’s as calm and content as can be. It’s like he forgot his world was ending only minutes prior, because suddenly, he was comfy and unfazed. Problem solved. Life is all good once again! 

The first thing most dog lovers notice about the Corgi personality is that, well, there’s a lot of it. They could be overcompensating for those tiny feet and stubby legs, but these dogs act like they’re ten times their size.

Us humans often refer to this as a Napoleon complex—and that guy tried to conquer Europe—so, yeah... if you share that trait, hopefully you're ready to welcome some competition at home.

It's been said that Corgis aren't afraid to flirt with a little danger, too. Remember, these pups were bred to guide cattle, sheep, ponies (and at times, even geese), so with a long history of nipping at heels, it’s natural to assume exercise and fun might involve some playful interruptions. 

Obviously, this behavior isn’t suitable for every household (especially if play-biting is going to cause fear and friction), but if you've ever thought about getting a Corgi of your own, again, just ask yourself—can you handle their personality?

Corgi’s are very talkative dogs as well, so hopefully you're a talker yourself. I mean, you can train them to stop barking on command, but when they’re excited to tell you about everything going on, (or begging for you to move something) they're going to let you know. 

In fact, they might even get so used to your daily routine that they'll bark if you simply change it up. Uh, mom...you left the bedroom light on. 

But the most telling thing about a Corgi personality is arguably the way they walk. With their heads held high, it's like they're always hightailing it to keep up with (or ahead of) the rest of the world. 

Self-assured and low to the ground, these big dogs in little bodies seem certain they’re standing tall, which is absolutely hilarious and only adds to their cuteness. 

Maybe they really think they’re royalty (I mean, Queen Elizabeth sure did love them)? Regardless, these fun-loving, playful pups have huge personalities and a seemingly infinite amount of love to give... when they're not begging for something.  

Moving thousands of miles away from home can be both exciting and terrifying. Unfamiliar sights and experiences replace everything you know. Not everyone adjusts easily to new surroundings, including dogs who may find it unnerving.

Fortunately, for this little Frenchie, his new home has a lot to offer. It’s already hard to distinguish him from a non-native in this tropical climate.

Watch him living his best life in this video from February 1:

How my dog acclimated to life in #Florida 🌞🌴✨ #dogsofttiktok #frenchiesoftiktok #frenchie

It’s easy to understand why Potato is having fun in his new Florida home. Originally from Canada, this adorable French Bulldog is now living a life that would make Jimmy Buffett proud. No longer does he have to worry about cold snowy winters, instead he has sandy beaches to play on. He’s become accustomed to this new world, even mastering the art of shucking coconuts. Ha! And of course, he’s taking full advantage of bathing in the sunshine.

Related: Frenchie’s Stoic Expression During Her First Touch of the Ocean Is Everything

This handsome fellow has even become a professional lizard and iguana chaser. Those fast-moving little guys are also favored by my now Floridian Frenchie. However, these pursuits can also do a number on the lawn! Luckily, iguanas can avoid danger by staying high on trees and power lines, as long as it’s not too cold. However, as the temperatures drop, these reptiles are known for falling from the sky. This is something you won’t see happening in Canada.

Unfortunately, Florida is also home to a variety of venomous snakes. Most will do their best to avoid you and your pets, but it’s always important to check the yard before allowing dogs to explore. We've encountered two while walking on the sidewalk close to our home. It’s their world, and we’re just living in it.

Cane toads are another deadly creature of great concern. These amphibians can fatally harm a large dog in mere minutes. Although people usually encounter them outside during dusk and dawn, they can also appear during the day. While they are not aggressive, dogs with a high prey drive like Frenchies often go after them.

Unlike living up north, it’s crucial to avoid playing and walking near fresh bodies of water, even if your dog is a good swimmer. Alligators often lurk in these waters, even if unseen. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

While it takes some time to become familiar with a new place, it’s easy to adjust to a life filled with adventures and sunshine. (Especially when you know just how cold a Canadian winter can be.)