Parade Pets

It's no secret that dogs love to listen to music. It's also no secret that they love to be with their human companions, and that's what makes combining those two things so special. Add in a beautiful backdrop, and you're winning the internet. 

On Sunday, April 21st, one dog got to live this dream for real. It was, by far, one of the prettiest things we've ever seen on the internet, and drew a lot of comparison to things like woodland fairies:

@bonnieandsimba

Bonnie guitar concerto on the bluebell stage accompanied by a choir of woodland birds #guitarist #acousticguitar #trickdog #bgt #dogmusic #musicianlife

♬ original sound - Bonnie&Simba

Bonnie and Simba may be a dynamic duo, but Bonnie is definitely the star of this video. She's so beautiful!

Related: Springer Spaniel Begging Walker To Play Fetch Is the Happiest Pup in the World

Bonnie and Simba are a pair of pups that are different breeds. As you can see, Bonnie is a breathtaking English Springer Spaniel with a budding music career, and Simba is a Border Collie who loves to take risks. He's been known to skateboard, swim, and hurdle over bike racks all while Bonnie prefers to run through flower fields and stick by mom's side!

In this video, Bonnie is trying out playing guitar for the first time, and it's going very well. She might not be making the prettiest sounds, but she's having fun, and that's what matters. It's an enrichment activity!

The Key to Keeping Smart Dogs Entertained

Olga, their mom, has her hands full with these two: both are very smart breeds. While all dogs need enrichment to stay happy and healthy, Border Collies in particular are on a whole new level. English Springer Spaniels are hunting dogs, meaning they get a big thrill out of the chase, while Border Collies were born to herd. 

Luckily, these two dogs and their differing personalities are able to entertain each other: the Border Collie can herd the Springer Spaniel! However, you can also offer them different activities like:

1. Swimming
2. Games of fetch with frisbees and herding balls
3. Puzzle toys both inside and outside
4. Listening to music when they have to be alone 
5. Lick mats at mealtime

As it turns out, flower fields are actually a great enrichment activity: it's a whole new set of smells and textures they don't experience very often. If your dog doesn't have a pollen sensitivity, try taking them out there! 

Without something to do, both Border Collies and English Springer Spaniels have been known to turn destructive. They'll tear apart their toys or your furniture, chew up anything they can get their teeth on, and they can even turn on each other. Intelligent working dogs are the best, but only if you can really handle them!

Not all dogs enjoy swimming, but those who do are often quite enthusiastic about it. The little dog in the video below is definitely one of those canines who love the sensation of cool water on his fur.

Despite his small size, Enzo is quite a strong swimmer. His celebration after taking a dip is not just cute but impressive. He will likely make you a little envious of his Florida vacation.

See the adorable Shih-Tzu enjoying the pool in the April 17 video.

@enzoistheshiht

Tampa vlog!!!! Who knew Shih Tzus are athletic water dogs?! #shihtzusoftiktok #dogvlog #dogvlogadventures #spoileddog

♬ Funkytown (From "Shrek 2") - Geek Music

Enzo (@enzoistheshiht) is living the good life in the Florida sunshine! Not only does he get to play in the pool, but he also gets to play with his Shih-Tzu uncle Tony. After having a little play session, he needed to cool off. He was so excited to see his floaty that he jumped right into the storage container to check it out. Yep, that will do!

Related: Shih-Tzu Has Total Meltdown Over Getting a Taste of Mom’s Chicken Nugget

He immediately hopped onto the float once it was in the pool. However, it didn't take long for the tropical sun to heat him, and after testing the water with his paws, he soon jumped in for a swim. The boy found the floating thermometer and turned it into a toy. It's fun to play with things you're not supposed to have. Unlike most dogs, Enzo doesn't tire from swimming and playing. He ran and spun around the house with the most adorable zoomies to dry off! Finally, after getting the last bit of energy out, it was time to nap. This little cutie sure earned a few hours of restful shut-eye.

Can All Shih-Tzus Swim?

While every dog may have individual preferences, according to Dogster, Shih Tzus have a natural ability to swim without help or guidance. However, because of their small size, they can tire quickly. To ensure their safety around water, pet parents must always be close by when these petite dogs are taking a dip. It's also recommended that they wear a life jacket to keep them afloat should they get tired. It's always better to be safe than to be sorry.

This dog's athletic abilities amazed people. Viewer @SarahSnyder remarked, "He is the most playful Shih-Tzu I've ever seen. Mine is the laziest thing ever, lol, and he hates water!" This little guy seems game for anything. Viewer @ChristianFuentes responded, "Mine hates water with a passion!" Many other pet parents echoed that sentiment.

Hopefully, Enzo had lots of fun on his Florida vacation before heading back to the Big Apple. He'll still have to wait a few more months before it's swimming season there.

Robert Irwin may have "gotten famous" for being Steve Irwin's son, but he's far exceeded everybody's expectations. Not only has he devoted his time and his heart to upholding his father's legacy, he's carefully building his own, too, and it's really starting to show. 

On Monday, April 22nd, he took to TikTok to share the news that he's officially the namesake of a newly discovered species. It's a huge honor, and he's very excited:

@robertirwin

What a huge honour to have a newly discovered snail species named after me! Introducing Robert Irwin’s banded snail…

♬ original sound - Robert Irwin

I love snails and I always have! I just hope that Robert Irwin himself manages to get his hands on a Robert Irwin's banded snail. I definitely think the Australia Zoo could use one!

Related: Robert Irwin Shares First Baby Turtle of Species His Dad Discovered and Everyone's Emotional

Robert Irwin has been around animals for his entire life - when he was younger, his dad's love for animals launched him into international stardom. Everyone loved Steve Irwin and his crazy reptile adventures, and his accidental death was something that shook the world. In his wake, he left behind a wife, two kids, and a legacy built around wildlife. 

Luckily, everyone in his family was 100% on-board with his life's mission and his family all jumped in to continue it. Terri and her kids, Bindi and Robert, still run Australia Zoo to this day and they continue to research and work with animals all over the world. Everyone loves the Irwins, which is why recently, a new snail species was named after Robert!

More About the Robert Irwin's Banded Snail

Robert Irwin's Banded Snail was recently discovered in Queensland, Australia - just a little while away from the Australia Zoo itself. The species is a forest-dweller, meaning it lives among the rocks and trees in southern Queensland. It has bands of different colors on its shell, and its body is a dark-brown base. I think it looks kind of like the iconic khaki outfit the Irwins have been known to wear!

While we don't have exact numbers for their population yet, Robert himself says that this snail is threatened by habitat loss. Deforestation is a serious issue all across the globe and threatens many species, both big and small. When talking about deforestation and its impacts, most people name those bigger species: orangutans, koalas, birds, etc. However, those tiny species like snails, rodents, and insects are every bit as important to the ecosystem as bigger species - and sometimes, even more so!

The comments on this video are filled with praise and excitement, but there's also a lot of confusion. People are saying that they wish Steve Irwin had a snail named after him, too, but he does - the Crikey steveirwini! He also has a turtle species named after him!

When our dogs reach their senior stages, the most important thing to do is keep them happy and comfortable. Their aging bodies are less capable of withstanding tons of exercise, and it might be harder for them to walk as their bones and joints begin to ache. It can be hard to watch, and we'll do anything to make it better. 

One mom was going through exactly that with her senior Corgi: try as she might, she couldn't walk correctly, and it was causing a lot of uncomfortable tripping. Luckily, mom came to her rescue on Sunday, April 21st with a gadget that worked so many wonders it moved mom to tears:

@themocha84

These are happy tears. Shes seems so toung again. She chased me to the kitchen. #seniordog #corgis #toegrips

♬ original sound - Mocha

I doubt @themocha84 will ever take another step without these toe grips on, and that's just fine. They make her happy!

Related: Corgi Bouncing His Way Down the Stairs Is an Instant Mood Booster

Mocha is almost 17 years old - even by small dog standards, that's old. The average Corgi lifespan is 12-15 years! Mom must be doing something right, but even so, she can't help the fact that Mocha struggles to walk on the tile floor. Tile is tough for every dog (and humans, let's be honest).

After what's probably 17 years of unfortunately splaying and slipping on hard floors, mankind has officially invented one of the most wholesome things ever: toe grips! They're little silicon sleeves that go over a dog's claws. They provide grip, which is amazing, but there's an unexpected perk: they keep your dog from scratching you. If your dog gets overexcited, they're definitely worth a shot!

How to Help Dogs on Hard Floors

Dogs prefer carpet for a lot of reasons, but recent home renovation trends have proven that carpet is going out of style. There's no shame in that: carpet is incredibly impractical, I think. It just gets stuff all up in it!

Unfortunately, our eyes opening to the fact that carpet is the worst leaves our furry friends to wander around on vinyl, tile, and hardwood, and that can be tough for them. Unlike cats, dogs' claws don't retract - they have no choice but to hit the floor with every step they take. That can lead to aches and pains as well as a loss of balance and related injuries. My dog once pulled a leg muscle because of a particularly bad slip. 

If you want to avoid that but your pup won't stand the toe grips, you can try:

1. Keeping their nails trimmed at all times to minimize the impact.
2. Adding carpet runners or area rugs all over the house to give them a path.
3. Keeping the fur between their paw pads trimmed so it won't ruin their traction. 
1. This is more important with "fluffier" breeds: Corgis, Huskies, Golden Retrievers, etc.

Mocha's toe grips are all they need now. She'll be a happy girl forever!

Some dogs enjoy playing in the dirt more than others, and while this can make it hard to get them clean, it’s difficult to stop them from having fun. Even if that means they’ll have to ride home in the car with mud caked in their fur.

Meet this lucky Golden Retriever, living his life to the fullest with parents who embrace his love for sand. If there were a competition for getting dirty, he’d be the undisputed champion. Witness his unbridled joy in a video shared on April 10.

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A post shared by Lars (@larsthegoldenboy)

Handsome Lars (@larsthegoldenboy) is a true beach boy! He’s fortunate to have owners who allow him to have his fun, as dog parents understand the struggle of cleaning fur after a beach trip. As he happily rolls around, you can see the sand caked into his undercoat and all the layers of fur. Oh my goodness! Can you imagine the condition of the car when they get home? These parents undoubtedly prioritize seeing their beloved dog happy over the state of the vehicle. However, his owners note that this ‘sand monster’ is the reason they can’t go barefoot in the house. Ha! No doubt. That stuff is hard to vacuum!

Related: Golden Retriever Steals the Show at 'Dog Surfing Contest' in Cocoa Beach

Removing Beach Sand From Dog’s Fur 

1. Prevention. Sit Means Sit Dog Training advises that prevention is one of the best ways to keep sand off dogs. Although not all dogs should have their fur trimmed in the summer, those that can should, as sand is less likely to stick to shorter hair. They also recommend brushing your dog before hitting the beach to make removal easier after they’ve had their fun.
   
   
2. Rinse. Those beach showers aren’t just for humans, and it's helpful to rinse our dogs thoroughly before putting them in the car.
   
   
3. Towel Dry. Drying our dog’s fur can help loosen the embedded sand, allowing us to leave more of it at the beach where it belongs.
   
   
4. Use a Crate. Instead of having our dogs try to dry themselves all over the interior of our car, they recommend putting them in a crate for transport home. That way, the mess they may still have buried in their fur stays in a contained area.
   
   
5. Brush and Bathe. It’s just as important to brush our dogs after a beach trip as before to help loosen up any remaining sand. Then, they can be bathed with a dog-appropriate shampoo to help remove those last bits.

Few things are better than seeing our dogs frolicking joyfully in the surf. We may need to clean up afterward, but it’s always worth it.

IKEA is one of the most well-known furniture stores in the world. They're known (and relentlessly teased) for their tiny hex wrenches and tearing families apart with their complicated manuals. Most of all, they're known for one thing overall: the meatballs. Allegedly, the meatballs they sell in the cafeteria is are insane. 

Ikea is more than furniture and food, though: they also have tons of home goods. From towels to pillows to stuffed animals, they seem to have one of everything there. Now, they're even branching further out with a new pet collection: the UTSÅDD series!

As per usual, IKEA's new pet collection features an assortment of sleek, mostly neutral-toned items that will give your home pet station a whole new look. There are a bunch of items, including things like:

1. Pet beds
2. Food bowls
3. Toys and enrichment
4. Hiding spots

There are items in the collection for both cats and dogs, though they could be used for other animals, too! Luckily, it seems like they've thought of everything. The dog beds come in multiple sizes to fit every furry friend!

Image via IKEA

Much of the collection seems to cater more to dogs: there are several squeaky toys, large pet beds, and even something called a "snuffle mat" that's specifically dedicated to dogs. IKEA describes the snuffle mat as an enrichment toy: it has several flaps that you can pull apart to hide treats in. The dog then uses their nose to "snuffle" the mat and discover the treats. It works best with small, dry treats, and it's kind of amazing.

Image via IKEA

If you love IKEA but you don't have any dogs, don't worry: they thought of you, too! There are a few cat-specific items in the collection, including a few "cat-houses" and a tunnel for them to run through. Both cat houses in the collection are designed to fit within certain pieces of IKEA furniture. That way, when they inevitably jump up on your furniture, at least they're have somewhere to go!

Image via IKEA

Most of the collection will be made available online, with a few select in-store-only items. As someone who doesn't have an IKEA anywhere close by, I will definitely be thinking about making a few online purchases online!

When Will IKEA's UTSÅDD Collection be Available?

IKEA's new series of products has been in the works for a while, and has been available in other countries for a little while. However, UTSÅDD just became available this month in US IKEA stores! 

If you'd like to pick something out from the collection, you're always welcome to visit a store to do so, but you'll have to leave your furry friend at home. IKEA is not pet friendly (except for service animals!).

It must be nice to live life as a celebrity pet — having the best, cushiest beds, living (and even traveling) in absolute luxury. But it's hard to imagine many stars' pets have a life quite as luxe as the one afforded to the animals who are lucky enough to be adopted by a member of the Kardashian family. Not only do they get to live the life of a rich and famous pet, but they also have plenty of kids around who always want to play and give them plenty of attention, which is basically a dog or cat's dream! 

And now, another lucky cat is joining their ranks. On Wednesday, April 24, Khloe Kardashian took to Instagram to introduce the newest member of her family to the world, and she is the absolute cutest! 

View the original article to see embedded media.

Khloe shared the exciting news in an Instagram post that included plenty of adorable photos of the new kitten that belongs to her 6 year old daughter, True, who they've named Baby Kitty.

"All True wanted for her sixth birthday was another kitty. She is such a great kitty mommy to Grey Kitty. I know she will be just as wonderful to Baby Kitty," Khloe wrote in her caption. "Never in a million years did I think I would have one cat let alone two. But here we are and I love them. I love how much my kids love them as well." 

She did add that two would be her "maximum for cats." Fair enough — not everybody is a cat lady (like me), but it's sweet that she's willing to keep an open mind so her daughter's dreams of caring for kitties can come true! 

From the photos that Khloe has already shared, it looks like True and Baby Kitty have become fast friends. These two are so sweet together.

Khloe's First Cat

Khloe and True are already cat mamas to another cat named Grey Kitty, who seems to have hit it off with Baby Kitty (at least, as far as I can see in these new photos). Hopefully, she's already showing the youngest member of the fam how to be a celebrity cat! 

They brought Grey Kitty home in December 2021, when they moved into their home and Khloe had to keep a promise she'd made to her daughter.

According to Us Weekly, Khloe shared in an Instagram comment in 2022, "“It’s her first pet besides her fish Nemo. She was asking for Grey Kitty for awhile and once we moved I promised her we would get a cat. She hasn’t put her down since December lol. She’s obsessed. Grey Kitty is so patient with True. She’s a sweet kitty.”

It looks like Baby Kitty has found the perfect family. I can't wait to see more pictures! 

Golden Retrievers are known as the "family" dogs. They're the best protectors, they're gentle with the babies, and they're full of energy for when those same kids get a little older. There's nothing like growing up with a Golden Retriever. 

If you don't believe that, there are millions of videos on the internet where Golden Retrievers make their love of their baby siblings clear. On Monday, April 22nd, a new one was posted and it might be the best one yet:

@abigaiilkate

We dont deserve dogs 😭🤍 especially golden retrievers 🤭 To all the mom cops out there, she fell asleep in my arms and i put her in her crib without a sleep sac on so yes we used a loose blanket to help her feel cozy while she was supervised on the monitor 👍🏻 #babytiktok #firsttimemom #momsoftiktok #sahm #newborn #babytok #goldenretriever #sleeptraining #babyroom

♬ Happy Little Things - Holly Kluge

Abigail Kate must be feeling so good about her decision to have a baby and a Golden Retriever at the same time. As that baby grows, there's no doubt that these two are going to be the best of friends!

Related: Baby Stares in Pure Confusion After Noticing Golden Retriever for the First Time

In addition to their Golden Retriever, this family also has a Black Labrador Retriever - another great dog for a baby to grow up with! Their mom, who's currently on a break from her nursing career, spends an equal amount of time with all of them. Luckily, the baby likes walks just as much as the pups do. They go on nightly walks all together!

Abigail's account focuses a lot of pregnancy, postpartum, and mom-life in general, but it's really interesting to see how the dogs weave themselves in there. It seems like dogs are just as big of a part of her postpartum care as anything else. With a Lab and a Golden Retriever, it's good that she's ready to jump right in - they're not going to wait!

Do Dogs Really Improve a Family?

Though Abigail doesn't specifically talk about PPD in any of her videos, we know that it is something a lot of mothers go through. Depending on your risk factors, your doctor may prescribe you preemptive measures to reduce the likelihood of it developing. However, a Japanese study has indicated that having a dog can actually reduce your risk of PPD in those crucial first few months. 

That same study, however, did show an uptick in "psychological distress" at around the one-year mark, which makes sense: your baby is more mobile and independent. It can be harder to keep track of them and a rowdy dog at the same time, especially while you're trying to teach your baby how to behave around the dog. 

Even with all of the issues that might arise, once you get the hang of it all, dogs definitely do improve a family. Kids raised with dogs are:

1. Less likely to have allergies to pet dander as adults. 
2. Gentler with their peers and other animals. 
3. More responsible. 
4. More active. 

Luckily for Abigail and Mabel, they have two big pups to keep them company as they continue growing their family. All five of them seem so happy together!

Experts believe that raising children with dogs has many benefits. Besides a robust immune system, dogs can teach children responsibility and help them develop empathy. One mother shares that dogs have a unique ability to train children to do even more.

One precious toddler is picking up on some pretty funny traits of the beautiful Goldens he’s growing up with. Check out this video from April 17 to see the lessons he's learned.

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A post shared by ᴛʜᴇ ᴏ.ɢ. ᴍᴀx, ꜰɪɴɴ & ᴍᴜʀᴘʜʏ (@max.and.finn)

Every child deserves the joy of growing up with a dog! These beautiful Goldens @max.and.finn are doing an amazing job of teaching their human sibling some dog-like behaviors. And the best part? They’re beaming with pride at their work.

Related: Golden Retriever Smiles with Delight While Playing with Toddler on Trampoline

Lessons Golden Retrievers Can Teach a Toddler

1. Window gazing. These family-oriented dogs have taught their tiny sibling the art of looking out the window to see what’s happening in the world.

2. Playing ball. These gorgeous canines have taught their little brother how to pick up a ball using his mouth and run with it. LOL! You never know when that might come in handy.

3. The love of squirrels. They have transferred their love of chasing these fluffy-tailed rodents to their brother, who also enjoys taking off after them. It’s great for mom and dad if it helps tire him out.

4. Tearing things up! This little cutie does a pretty great job of shredding paper, just like his four-legged siblings. The pups are very impressed by his technique, which again helps keep this toddler occupied for a while.

5. Snuggling. These dogs have taught their small human how to enjoy the simple joy of climbing into bed and snuggling. It doesn’t get much better than that.

6. How to love. Their big and open hearts have helped them show their newest family member what love is. A dog is the ultimate teacher.

These are six terrific examples of why Golden Retrievers make fantastic family pets. Their friendly, patient, and gentle nature can help teach kids kindness and love. Their playful energy and calm temperaments are well suited for a child exploring the world.

This loving relationship won people’s hearts. Viewer @socalgolden responded, “I can’t think of a better pack to be raised among. I can only hope every child learns Golden love.” The world would be a place. Viewer @captainthegoldenn kidded, “His 1st words will be barking.” That could be. Another member pointed out, “Now the dog can do the household crime, and the kid gets blamed. Clever dogs, ha ha!” That’s so true!

As this little boy grows up, he will undoubtedly teach his Golden siblings a few things, too. And they will surely bring many more smiles.

A sweet Dachshund likes to start his mornings watching his dad make lattes for the family, including a treat for her.

On April 23, 2024, TikTok user Nami, a cute Dachshund, shared a video of their morning routine with lattes, and it's really cute. Take a look!

@nami.namz

#puppylove #dachshund #dachshundsoftiktok #nami #puppylover #dachshundaddict #pupcup

♬ A Gentle Sunlight - James Quinn

In a short 16-second video, we meet Nami, a tiny black Dachshund who loves to wait for her morning latte.

Related: 7 Dachshunds Lined Up for Dinner Show Off the Most Exceptional Manners

The video starts with Nami in the kitchen, and we can see her dad behind her doing something at the counter.

He's making morning lattes for everyone, their daily routine. And now Nami gets in on the fun each day.

"Every morning, my husband makes me a latte," the text on the video reads from Nami's mom, Cynthia.

"Nami now waits next to me for her order," the text adds.

And that's what we see play out in the cute clip. Nami's dad puts together a real coffee latte for his wife and Nami's mom before he is ready to take her order next.

And the sweet Dachshund's order is the same each morning, too. A pup cup full of whipped cream. 

People in the comments loved seeing this cute clip of the daily routine.

"Her own in-house Starbucks," one person wrote.

"Look at that coffee bar," another shared.

"Good job, Dad! Perfect latte," shared someone else.

"What a precious video!" wrote another viewer. I always love to see people taking care of their fur babies."

Are Pup Cups Good for Dogs to Eat?

According to Bay Vets, pup cups, whether whipped cream or soft serve ice cream, are OK for dogs to eat as a once-in-a-while treat. But they can cause problems, too.

"While dairy isn’t necessarily toxic for dogs, many dogs are lactose intolerant to varying degrees," they explain on their website. "This can lead to gastrointestinal upset, which could result in diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite."

These should be considered a "once in a blue moon treat" for dogs and not something they should always have. 

According to its website, the American Kennel Club has a similar feeling about pup cups. Since dairy can bother many dogs, you can wait and see how your dog reacts after giving them small amounts.

"However, keep in mind that chocolate and macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs, so only plain vanilla or fruit flavors should ever be considered," they add.

Also, dog parents really need to make sure they're keeping their dogs away from treats that contain xylitol.

"Many ice creams, frozen yogurts, and popsicles contain this highly toxic and potentially deadly ingredient," the club writes. "You should ask if there are any artificial sweeteners in the ice cream before offering it to your dog, especially if your dog is such a small breed."

Our pets may not be able to speak English, but that doesn't mean they don't have a lot of opinions about us and our lives... and that they don't find their own ways to make those opinions known! My pets all truly hate when I go on vacation, even though it means they get to hang out with my parents and sister while I'm gone (all of whom love and spoil them dearly). They know I'm going somewhere as soon as the suitcase comes out, and they've even been known to try to hop in while I'm packing. 

But some pets decide to lecture their humans after they've already gotten home from their travels, and that includes the very bossy cat in this TikTok video. Her mom might think twice before she ever goes anywhere without her feline BFF again... 

@munchkinstevie

Nonna has had a lot to say today after I got back from a 5 day vacation! 🙈 #talkingcat #seniorcatsoftiktok #catmomlife #munchkincat

♬ original sound - Stevie Munchkin

On Tuesday, April 23, @munchkinstevie shared this video of her Munchkin cat, Nonna, showing how she reacted when her mom finally got home from a five day vacation. Let's just say that Nonna had a lecture waiting when Mom walked in! 

Not only does Nonna have a sassy expression on her face, but she's also meowing a lot, a sure sign that she is laying down the law. I don't speak cat, but I'm pretty sure she's saying, "where on earth have you been? Don't even leave me again!" 

Commenters seem to agree with me on that one, with one person writing, "she would like to speak to your manager."

Yeah, that sounds about right!  

Do Cats Know How Long We're Gone?

Even though cats (obviously) can't read clocks or tell time, that doesn't mean that they have no sense of time — just that they perceive it a bit differently than humans do.

Instead of relying on clocks, cats depend on different cues to tell them what time of day it is, like the inner clock that tells them if it's time to wake up or go to sleep for the night, if it's light or dark outside, and of course, their humans' routines. We tend to leave for work, get home, and serve meals around the same times each day, which helps them understand what time it might be. 

So while they won't know exactly how long you've been gone when you're on vacation, they'll know that it's longer than they'd expect you to be gone during your usual routine... which could lead you to getting a bit yelled at the way Nonna did to her mom in this video.

That's okay. It just means they miss us! Poor kitties. 

Fostering dogs can be an incredible, selfless thing to do for so many reasons. Not only are you giving a dog a loving, safe place to live as they wait to find their forever homes when they might otherwise spend that time in a cold shelter (or worse), but you're also helping to make room so rescue organizations can save more dogs. It's definitely not an easy task, though; adjusting to life with a new pet, even one who's only staying temporarily, can really be tough, and it can add a lot of extra work and stress to your daily routine. 

But in those moments when the work pays off, it's so worth it, and this sweet TikTok video is proof of that. 

@ingrid.pups

Two times this week that “the black dog” has made me cry / Winter & Potter are available through @Love's Legacy Rescue #dogtrainer #fosterdogs #dogsoftiktok

♬ The Black Dog - Taylor Swift

This foster mom on TikTok, @Ingrid.pups, shared a sweet moment she had with one of her foster dogs who was a bit of a tough customer. 

But to be fair, she also has a heartbreaking backstory. According to her video, Winter and her brother, Potter, were recently surrendered because Potter excitedly bit their human while the dogs were being leashed up to go for a walk. It seems like Winter's having a hard time coping with the change, since she hasn't been willing to touch or get too close to humans since. 

Coincidentally, this video managed to capture the moment where all of that changed. For the first time, Winter jumped right into her foster dog's lap, making her emotional in the process. Honestly, who wouldn't cry if something like this happened to them?! 

This speaks volumes about the kind of human that this foster dog must be. If Winter was able to pick up on that so soon after meeting her, it looks like she's definitely good people.

Adopting Winter & Potter

If you happen to live in southern California and you're interested in adopting these adorable siblings, good news: They are still available from Love's Legacy Rescue! However, it looks like the rescue wants to keep them together, so they're only available to be adopted as a pair.

"Winter and Potter were rescued from Carson shelter hours past they were due to be euthanized. These two have been through a lot and it shows," says their profile on the rescue's website. "Potter is Winter's protector and they are VERY bonded. They both have spunky personalities and will need an experienced dog owner. They are bouncy little fire crackers and have a tendency to be mouthy. They can only go to a home with no kids and no other dogs." 

If you're interested, you can find out more on the rescue's website here. 

My fingers are crossed that Winter and Potter will find their forever home soon. They deserve some extra TLC! 

A cat dad shows off the incredible catio he has at his home, which was built using their existing pergola.

On April 11, 2024, TikTok user Vincent Sandoval (@vincent_sandoval) shared a look at his cat's impressive catio which is absolutely fit for cat royalty. Take a look!

@vincent_sandoval

Replying to @OutOfMyDepths Its so sweet to watch them chill outside and enjoy the birds singing 💕 The comment says “omg, your catio” #catio #catdecor

♬ original sound - Vincent Sandoval

In a quick 38-second video, we get a mini tour of Vincent's catio, which his father-in-law built for their cats.

Related: Cat Mom's Fancy DIY Catio Is a True Kitties' Paradise

"My father-in-law did this for his grandkids and my cats a few months ago, and it's easily the best thing we've done for them," Vincent says in the video.

He then walks us through the catio, pointing out how simple it was to put together and what he's filled it with for his cats.

"We already had these pillars and the pergola, so he just added two by fours and screened it in," he explained.

"The inside is with all their favorite things. Of course. They have a comfy seat. I put catnip toys. I gotta add some more, actually."

Vincent shared that the steps we see in the new catio are made of plywood, and the whole space has been such a big hit for his cats.

"Will loves being out here. We have the viral donut beds, a floor-to-ceiling climbing tree, and some wood trunks for nail filing," Vincent added. "And that's about it."

Vincent really thinks this catio has been amazing for his cats, and it looks like they're living in the best kind of luxury.

"If you have space to enclose, I highly recommend it," he said. "My cats definitely love it."

In the comment section, people were all about this catio and excited to see such a cool build that didn't sound like it took too much money or time.

"What a dream," one person shared.

"You should add a little patch of cat grass," another suggested.

"Best catio ever," someone else declared.

"My cats just looked at me and sighed," joked another.

Many people pointed out that this catio doesn't have a roof, which they wondered what would happen when it rained. But Vincent shared that they will be adding a roof soon.

Catios Offers So Many Perks for Cats

According to the Humane Society of the United States, catios are great for cats for so many reasons, but they're also great for the community of animals like wildlife.

"These screened porches designed for cats provide enrichment and a (safe) way to spend time in nature," the organization shares. "An outdoor enclosure for cats can be as simple as a window box or as elaborate as a room with a floor, a roof, and furniture for people and pets."

Some of the benefits for cats are that catios allow them closer access to wildlife and the outdoors. They're fascinated with birds, bugs, and animals, and this gives them a bigger look than they'd get at a window. It also provides stimulation "including novel smells, sights and sounds," the Humane Society shares.

Catios are also great for wildlife because these enclosures give cats all those great benefits without putting wildlife in danger.

It's a win/win, and this catio made using a pergola makes it relatively easy to build, too. And it looks really cool.

A senior Golden Retriever has the biggest smile after seeing the adorable birthday cake she received for her 12th birthday.

On April 23, 2024, TikTok user Lily Boris & Darcy (@lily_boris_darcy) shared a video of the beautiful Lily celebrating a big birthday with a big smile. Take a look!

@lily_boris_darcy

Lily’s smile when she sees her cake 🥹 #happybirthday #12today #heartdog #myeverything #fyp #wholesome #dogbirthday #dogcake #souldog

♬ You to Me Are Everything - Acoustic - Plamina

In a minute-long video, we meet Lily, a senior Golden Retriever who is celebrated with everyone she loves in a very big way.

Related: Cute Dog-Friendly Birthday Cake Recipe Makes for the Perfect Celebration

The video was taken on a big day for Lily as she celebrated her 12th birthday. It looks like her family pulled out all the stops to help her feel as special as possible.

She poses for photos wearing an adorable pink crown with the number 12 in the center and what looks like a drum prop.

Lily gets really excited when she realizes it's time to make her cake, and she does an adorable little hop-jump before heading back inside.

Lily sits at the table while wearing an apron, she has all the cake ingredients infront of her to make her special birthday cake.

She is fully involved in the process of making a cake, too. She does a taste test with each step, from the floor to the eggs, nuts, and carrots.

After the cake is stirred and put together, baked, iced, and decorated, Lily then poses for some photos with her cake that have been decrated with flowers and a candle that highlighs she is 12 years old.

Posing for the photos, it's clear that Lily loves her cake, and she has the most adorable smile beaming from ear to ear.

"Lily's smile when she sees her cake," the video's caption reads, adding in a cute eye emoji.

In the comments, people reacted to the sweet video which played the song "You to Me are Everything" by Plamina to set the mood.

"She's beautiful and her look when she sees her cake made me melt," one person wrote.

"Lily is one of the Goldens who made me fall in love with Goldens," someone else added. "And now I have my own 6 month little Golden girl."

"Happy 12th Barkday beautiful Lily," another person wrote. "You're one of my favorite Golden girls on this app."

"These are priceless moments," someone else shared.

Carrot Cake for a Dog's Birthday Is a Healthy, Fun Treat

While they didn't exactly say what kind of cake Lily enjoyed for her birthday, it looks like they used similar ingredients for a doggy carrot cake. 

It looks like you can mix and match recipes online depending on what you have at home or your dog's taste preferences. 

For example, the standard carrot cake for dogs seems to be flour, honey, egg, and carrot. From there, you can add some other ingredients. Some have walnuts, others choose to include peanut butter, banana, or spices like cinnamon. 

Of course, it is important to cross-check that you're only adding dog-safe ingredients, including any spices you add.

Happy birthday, Lily!

There are many reasons to love the Maine Coon cat breed. These large kitties are not only stunning but also friendly and expressive. According to a fur mom, they have various ways to convey their thoughts.

This gorgeous feline has a unique language and is always ready to express his opinions. His diverse vocalizations are a treat for any feline enthusiast.

Listen to his impressive vocal range in this "50 Shades of Meows" video shared on April 17:

@maxiecoon

If you like silence, then a Maine Coon cat is not for you 😅 Even being a boy, Foxie likes commenting on everything, and he's so demanding when he wants something! If you touch him, he resembles a music box 🎶 A similar video with 🖤 Maxie (a girl) is here @🐱🖤Maxie & Foxie🧡🐱 So you can compare how different male and female Maine Coon cat sounds are 😻 #didyouknow #catfacts #mainecooncat #catsounds #lifewithcats #maxiecoon

♬ original sound - 🐱🖤Maxie & Foxie🧡🐱

I love these sounds! Foxie’s (@maxiecoon) mom tells us that if we like silence, a Maine Coon cat is not for us. Ha! She reveals that even though he may be a boy, he is talkative and likes to comment on everything. She describes this handsome fellow as very demanding; however, he also "Sings like a music box" when she touches him.

Related: Maine Coon Cat’s Happy Purrs Are Strong Enough To Shake the Whole House

The Many Sounds of a Maine Coon

This cat has various meows, each with a unique tone and purpose. His demanding wail is a deep and throaty purr, while his shy voice is more of a whisper. When sleepy, his meow has a high-pitched tone, followed by a deep and soulful yawn. His face is just precious! But when he hisses and slaps, it’s clear he means business and won’t tolerate any nonsense.

Similarly, his angry sound is more like a growl, especially when he’s had his fur brushed. I love his incoming chatter, where he makes the most adorable little sounds as he ascends each step of the stairs. His morning meow is also one of my favorites, as it’s the perfect sound to start the day. But his excellent goodnight version is hard to beat, especially when he’s making biscuits. This good boy truly enjoys talking and expressing himself!

Do All Maine Coons Like to Talk?

According to Woofpurnay Veterinary Hospital, they do! That’s why many pet parents refer to a Maine Coon’s many noises as talking. Besides the standard meow, they also “Make other sounds such as chirps, trills, and yowling.” In addition to their unique vocals, these cats are known for loving water, which is not always a quality in your average house cat.

Cat parents confirmed the talkative nature of this gorgeous breed. Viewer @AmberMarieLinsner responded, “As a Maine Coon parent, they are never quiet, and I live for our conversations.” They bring a fun energy to each day. Viewer @Jin reported, “I love the ear tufts! I have 2, and they are such chatterboxes. I love them so much.” They make that very easy to do.

If we’re having a bad day, we can always tune into this video to listen to this charming cat and his beautiful music. It’s almost impossible to feel anything but happy when hearing to his lovely songs.

Everyone gets itchy sometimes, and we can all relate to "unreachable" itches that we just can't stop. When you have one of those itches, you'll stop at nothing to get it scratched, even if it means twisting yourself like a pretzel to reach it. 

Apparently, these terrible itches aren't a human-only experience. On Thursday, April 18th, we got to watch as a Golden Retriever's itching got the best of him. It forced him into a very interesting position:

@reed.the_goldenr

#canada🇨🇦 #goldenretriever #like #follow #fyp #foryou #goldenretrieverlife #trendy #goldenretrievers

♬ original sound - reed.the_goldenR

It seems like Reed the Golden might need some help scratching that itch. He's trying his best, but it seems like he's missing something...

Related: Golden Retriever Has 'First Broken Heart' After Meeting New Friend

Reed the Golden Retriever is a 1-year-old pup who lives in Canada. He loves to spend time with his parents: they take him fishing when the weather permits. Now that it's springtime (which means mud season in a lot of places), he's having a lot of fun causing trouble. Though I've never had to attempt to get mud out of a Golden's fur, I've seen enough videos to know it's not easy!

Unsatisfied scratches can legitimately make your dog angry. They use their back legs to itch, which can be very difficult to do when standing up. Watching a dog lean against the couch to scratch their itches is one thing, but flipping upside down is totally new. Whatever possessed him to do it like this, he definitely seems to have found his itch!

Why are Some Dogs so Itchy?

Everything gets a little itchy sometimes, including dogs: a tickle, a bug crawling on them, or even just sitting wrong can make a pup itchy. However, there does come a point when it is too much, and constant itching might be an indicator that something is wrong. Some common things that make dogs itchy are:

1. Allergies (to food, pollen, etc.)
2. Ill-fitting clothing or collars 
3. Fleas and ticks 
4. Matted coats
5. Dry skin
6. Eczema or other skin conditions

Some breeds are predisposed to allergies and skin sensitivities, like Golden Doodles, Labrador Retrievers, and Bulldogs. Other issues, likes fleas and matting, are more common in dogs with longer coats. Flea and tick prevention is essential all-year round, not just in the warmer months! 

No matter what kind of dog you have, you should always keep an eye on their itching habits. If it seems excessive or out of the ordinary for them, it's always best to get them a checkup. Reed's methods may be unusual, but he's fine otherwise!

Despite our best efforts, sometimes, our dogs manage to get away. All it takes is a split second and something of interest for our furry friends to take off, and then begins the spiral. Where are they? Are they okay? Did they get stolen? What the heck do we do?!

On Saturday, April 20th, this nightmare became a reality for one family. When their Beagle ran off, all they could do was look for her and hope for her safe return. Getting it was the sweetest moment:

@ajones525

“Its just a dog” Actually, its her child 🩷 #fy #fyp

♬ Marley and Me Ending - Amber Czarniecki

I'm so happy that @ajones525 found her mom's dog, and I can't even imagine how special it felt to get to do this for her. They'll definitely never forget it!

Related: Beagle and Frenchie Throwing Each Other Shade from Their Cars Is Absolutely Priceless

According to Abigail, this Beagle is her mom's baby. Her name is Zoey, and they see each other often: her mom brings her over for pets and to run around Abigail's farm. They have several cows, and while Zoey doesn't exactly fit in among them, she definitely loves to watch and have a good time.

She got out two days prior to the video, though we don't know exactly how. Beagles have been known to escape in pursuit of a scent! Fortunately, she was found unharmed. She might've been a little cold, and she definitely needed a snack, but she's okay. What more could they ask for?

What to Do When Your Dog Gets Out

Unfortunately, when our dog gets out, the first thing we tend to want to do is panic, and panicking is the absolute last thing we should do. When you panic, you're less likely to think clearly, and stress makes the situation worse. 

If your dog has gotten out, you should:

1. Take a deep breath.
2. Grab the dog's leash (and collar, if it's not wearing one), a squeaky toy, and a bag or box of treats.
3. Walk, don't run, after the dog while calling its name.
1. You can also try calling words like, "treats," "dinner," or anything else you think might draw them home.Call for backup from your neighbors or close-by friends to help you search. 
4. Call your local animal control center or non-emergency line. 
5. Enlist friends and neighbors to help with the search. 
6. Post on social media to spread the word!

Alongside all of that, there are preemptive measures you can take to ensure that your dog will be identified if it is found by a stranger. Things like updating their microchip information regularly, leaving their collar and ID tags on at all times, and attaching dog-gates to exterior doors can all help prevent the dog from getting out or remaining lost for long. Luckily for Zoey, all is well!

Feral cats are said to be mean and completely unruly. People warn against approaching them or trying to take them inside, but sometimes... Humans just can't help themselves. After all, how hard can it be?

Well, one video posted on Sunday, April 21st shows off that feral cats can definitely be sweet, and that certainly does it help. Watch it and then try to say you don't want to take her home:

@kinnickscoop

I am not a cat person. I am not a cat person. I am not a cat person. But she found her way into our outbuilding, had her babies, and I will now be a cat person until they find safe, loving forever homes. Also…cat advice welcome 😅 #homestead #farmlife #thisismylifenow #foryourpage #foryou #fyp #foryoupage #catsoftiktok #kittensoftiktok #kittenlove #makingbiscuits #farm #homesteading #homesteadinglife

♬ A Gentle Sunlight - James Quinn

In the caption, @kinnickscoop mentions that she is not a cat person, but that she'' absolutely be taking this mama and her babies in until they can be safely re-homed. That's a kindness we don't see very often! Good on her!

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

According to the homesteaders, this kitten made her way into one of the buildings on their land and had a litter of kittens. This kind of thing is common: cats prefer to give birth in warm, safe, secluded places where they feel like their kittens won't be disturbed. It's why you'll often find house cats giving birth under beds or in closets!

The family noticed the new houseguests during their rounds one morning, and it was the perfect time. The mama cat must've been tired, because she lets her rescuer pet her - and not only that, but she lets her pet her tummy. That's a real sign of trust! These first few weeks will be tough, but I'm interested to see if her ends up "foster-failing" any of these kitties!

Should You Try to Tame Feral Cats?

It can be incredibly tempting. You see a feral cat, and of course, they're cats. They'll likely approach your house for food and they may even get close enough to let you stand near them, but they probably won't let you pet them. At least at first. After a while, you might be able to build enough trust to snatch it and bring it inside. However, the question remains... Should you?

There are a few positives to removing a cat from the wild. You reduce the risk of it getting hurt, you stop it from causing further damage to local ecosystems and, if its not spayed/neutered, you keep it from procreating. Cats belong indoors. 

Unfortunately, it's not that simple. Adult feral cats can be incredibly hard to tame, and you'll always have a problem keeping them indoors - they were raised to live outside, and they will want to go back there, no matter what you do. They also don't typically get along well with other animals, so introducing them to your current pack can be tough. Generally, the best course of action when you see a feral cat and want to care for it is to do so outside!

You can set up food and shelter for a feral cat and it will eventually learn to come back and visit. From there, you could hypothetically trap it in a crate and take it to the vet to have it spayed/neutered and vaccinated, but you'd still want to release it after. Luckily, most of the cats in this video are just kittens and can be domesticated easily, and mama seems willing, too!

Livestock guardian dogs have one job: to protect the livestock. Expansive farms can't always have the human security necessary to keep their herds safe - and honestly, it's better to keep it all natural. Dogs fit in better among the other animals. 

Don't let their name fool you, though. Livestock guardian dogs' desire to protect doesn't just stop with the farm animals. They'll lay down their lives to protect each other, their humans, and as we can see in this video from Thursday, April 18th, even a new litter of cats:

@missy__montrose

#livestockguardiandog #kittens #kittensoftiktok #catdistributionsystem #dogsandkittens #k9softiktok #protectiondogs #dogsoftiktok #presa #mastiffsoftiktok

♬ original sound - Missy Montrose

I know that Missy Montrose probably knows this already, but I think she might have the best family of pets in the world. How do they all care so much about each other? Who taught them to be this sweet?

Related: Livestock Guardian Dog's Dedication to Protecting Newborn Lamb Is Downright Incredible

This pup's name is Yodin, and according to his mom, he's a Mastiff - specifically, a Presa Canario. They were originally bred to be guard dogs, though it seems like their breed was bred more for herding/home guardianship than livestock. Whatever the case may be, these pups are fiercely loyal, huge, and very intimidating, which are all things you want in a home guardian. They can definitely be trained to guard livestock, though, and they do have farming roots!

As a protector, Yodin saw no other choice than to protect his cat-sister's kittens while she was away. Her name is Sarah, and though she can be wary of her brother at times, this video shows how grateful she was to have him there. Being a mom is hard!

Should You Let Other Pets Near Kittens?

If your cat is having a litter and there are other pets in the home, you can guarantee that they'll be curious. Kittens make a lot of noise, and they smell like new babies! Of course your other animals are going to want to take a look, and that's generally fine. 

The idea that a mother will abandon her babies if she senses they've been touched by humans or other animals is just a myth, especially in cases like this: Sarah (the cat) is familiar with her mom's scent as well as Yodin's. Moreover, she knows they would never hurt her kittens and would even be willing to lean on them for a break, like she does in this clip. You're okay to let your other pets come over for a quick sniff, as long as you're supervising.

However, you should still play it by ear: if your mama cat looks like she really doesn't want her kittens to be touched by anyone else, leave them. She'll let you know when she's ready for a break!

Even if you're not a huge animal lover, I dare you to see a litter of puppies and not immediately feel warm and fuzzy feelings around them — they're so small that they are instantly irresistible! And somehow, they only get cuter as they get bigger and learn how to play, and we get to see the mischievous streak come out in them. It's not just humans who feel this way about puppies; plenty of adult dogs will get excited about seeing puppies, too, even if they're not the proud parents!

In fact, some dogs are happy to act as the fun uncle... including the one in this video who just couldn't stop himself from playing with these puppies. Not that I can blame him — who could stay away from faces like those?! 

@butkusgregory1

Uncle Buckey and the puppies! #harleyblu #bulldog #doggo #puppy #butkusgregory

♬ My Little Friends - Yona Yulisia

In this TikTok video that @butkusgregory1 shared on Sunday, April 21, we can see fun Uncle Buckey the fully grown Bulldog playing with these adorable puppies. When Mom and Dad are busy, they can count on him to keep the kids entertained! 

It's hard to say who's having more fun here: Uncle Buckley or the puppies? Either way, they're all pouncing around playfully, having a great time, and that's what matters!

The family hasn't shared whether or not they plan to keep these puppies or find them new homes, but if they keep them, fortunately, it seems like they will have plenty of playmates around to keep them busy (and to help them get all that puppy energy out). 

Do Dogs Recognize Their Relatives? 

While these puppies probably have no way of comprehending that Buckley is their uncle, they do know their siblings and parents by scent, if they're close by. But will they always be able to recognize their family if they are separated in the future? 

According to Dogs Today magazine, dogs are able to recognize their siblings later in life, as long as they have spent a proper amount of time with them — around 16 weeks at a minimum. Any shorter than that, and it's less likely that they will retain those memories of those who were with them in their youngest days. 

And of course, just like humans, their memories will fade over the years. After a few years, they may not be able to recognize their family members at all. 

In the end, there's a chance that these puppies may not recognize their uncle if they are rehomed and they see him again in the future... but does that really matter when they're having so much fun with him now?