Parade Pets

We've all heard that phrase, "The squeaky wheel gets the oil." But what about "The screechy cat gets all the attention..." It might not ring a bell, but once you meet this screaming Black Cat, you'll see how true it is.

In a funny video from TikTok, we meet Countpurrcula, a "vampire cat," who craves cuddles and insists on receiving them as soon as possible.

Take a look at this kitty who has quite a set of pipes! Give this a listen!

Vampire cat screams for morning cuddles #vampire #countpurrcula #rescuecat #blackcat #gothcat

"Vampire cat screams for morning cuddles," the family captioned the clip.

This Black Cat is meowing before even entering the room. And this isn't unusual behavior for Countpurrcula! The kitty's bio states: "I'm a very loud rescue cat who demands cuddles and looks like a vampire."

Awww, so sweet!

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Viewers got a kick out of hearing this kitty get his point across.

"He’s tryna tell you he ran out of cigarettes😳😂," one person wrote.

"Oh, I LOVE him!!!! 😭😭😭 He has such a unique meow," another fan commented.

One viewer thinks this cat sounds like another creature.

"Purrs like a dinosaur 🥹," a fan stated.

Related: Ragdoll Cat Standing Inside Dishwasher Is the Cutest Little Helper

"That’s a deep meow 💀💀💀 I’m scared," another person noted.

Ha! No reason to fear! This kitty is all bark and no bite. Look how sweet! All Countpurrcula wants is love.

While Countpurrcula definitely has plenty to say, this isn't out of the ordinary for an older cat to become quite chatty. Once kitties pass the age of 10, their behavior changes, and they make increased vocalizations.

Their meows and purrs can sound a bit deeper or a little more dramatic, too. If you notice anything out of the ordinary or if your cat has any other symptoms that indicate they might be in pain or discomfort, it's important to contact your vet for an evaluation.

Luckily, it seems like Countpurrcula is beyond happy once arriving on Mama's lap. I mean, that contented purr truly says it all!

It may be a loud wake-up call for Countpurrcula's family, but once the kitty settles down, it's pure bliss.

Searching for the perfect stick seems like a dog's rite of passage. Whatever the breed, size, or personality, they all have this one thing in common. Some pups like to challenge themselves with an unlikely stick hunt, if only to prove they can.

Meatball is the man—Dachshund, actually—of the hour, and it's all because of his underwater adventure. With camera views above and below the water, we get a sneak peek at how he uses his stumpy little frame to find the best sticks. If ever there was a reminder to stop and smell the proverbial roses, this is it!

It’s the little things in life… 🥺

Maybe it's the way he tippy-taps and wiggly dances through the rippling water, but Meatball has me a little misty-eyed. Something so simple brings him so much joy, and that's beautiful. By using his "patitas" as Mom @yunabugs calls them, Meatball's stick hunt is a smashing success!

Related: Story of Dachshund Puppy Born With Only 3 Legs 'Never Giving Up' Has Us in Tears

To fully understand the Dachshund's glee over a water activity, we must first rewind to where it began. This isn't just some retention pond or river water situation Meatball enjoyed, but instead, a custom pond made just for the good boy and his Doxie siblings (plus one Great Dane)!

Take a look at the process from breaking ground to underwater shenanigans!

Worth every penny for the sausages!

Seeing how happy Meatball is, it's surprising that Dachshunds don't normally like anything involving water. The "hunting dog" breed typically prefers to stay on dry land and keep their paws moisture-free. Things like swimming, bath time, pools, or even rain, don't make their "love" list for a variety of reasons.

Some might not like feeling cold and wet, while others aren't fans of working their short, low-to-the-ground bodies and stumpy legs in that way. I'd have no interest in doggy paddling to stay alive with a body like that, so that's fair.

For those who do like water (in shallow water with a vest and supervision), swimming can be a great low-impact activity to help with joint pain and inflammation, to help them stay cool during the hot months, or as Meatball demonstrated, search for sticks with the cutest patitas in all the land!

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If you live with a pet who sheds, you already know fur has a way of getting everywhere. It clings to your couch, works its way into carpets, coats your car seats and somehow ends up on clothes you just washed. Even with regular grooming and vacuuming, keeping up with all that loose hair can feel like a never-ending task.

That’s where this Aldi find comes in. And at only $4, it's a no-brainer for pet parents.

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Aldi

The Joie Fur Remover Stone is a simple, budget-friendly tool designed to tackle stubborn pet hair without the hassle of disposable lint rollers. Instead of sticky sheets that run out quickly, this reusable tool features a textured, lava rock-like surface that lifts fur from fabric with just a few swipes.

Using it is about as easy as it gets. Simply brush it across surfaces like carpets and couches, and it lifts pet hair with ease. It can even grab fur that vacuums and lint rollers often leave behind. Plus, its compact size makes it easy to maneuver into those hard-to-reach spots.

One of the best things about it is that it’s completely reusable. There are no refills, no batteries and no sticky sheets to toss. Just remove the collected hair or rinse it off, and it’s ready to go again.

Related: This $10 Find at Aldi Is Perfect for Keeping Pet Messes in Check

This handy tool can be used on a variety of fabric surfaces around your home and beyond:

• Upholstery
• Carpets and rugs
• Bedding and blankets
• Pet beds and cat trees
• Car interiors
• Some clothing (nothing too delicate; test a small area first)

It’s the kind of tool you’ll likely keep within arm’s reach for quick, everyday cleanups.

If your pet tends to “blow” their coat during certain times of the year, you know how quickly things can get out of hand. Seasonal shedding can mean more frequent cleaning and more frustration when fur seems to reappear just as fast as you remove it.

Having a tool like this on hand makes it easier to stay on top of things without having to drag out the vacuum multiple times a day. A quick pass over your furniture can make a noticeable difference in just a few minutes. 

Like many Aldi Finds, this fur remover stone is only available for a limited time, and at just $4, it’s likely to fly off the shelves, so grab one while you can. If you're dealing with daily shedding, it’s a simple, no-fuss solution that can make your space feel and look a whole lot cleaner.

Related: Pet Parents Are Raving About Aldi's Cute and Stylish $7 Rainy Day Essential

I wish I could say I approach gardening with calm, patience, and wisdom. What I actually do is plant seeds and then check on them every 5 minutes, like I’m waiting for cookies to come out of the oven. And yes, I absolutely drag my dog outside with me each time so we can both stare at dirt together.

Which is why this video hit a little too close to home.

I was impressed #goldenretriever #dogsoftiktok

TikTok user @goldenboyranger_ captioned the clip, “Field Golden Retriever behavior,” and that is somehow both extremely accurate and wildly insufficient. Because what happens next is less “behavior” and more… full athletic commitment.

This Golden Retriever does not gently investigate the garden. He launches himself into it. A full, deliberate, airborne leap straight into a pile of fresh plants, like he just discovered an all-you-can-eat buffet and refuses to miss it.

Related: Golden Retriever Who's Obsessed With 'The Masters Is the Ultimate Golf Buddy

And suddenly, the headline writes itself. Because this is not a garden anymore. This is Ruby Tuesday’s salad bar. And he has arrived.

The comments were exactly what you’d expect from people who have either lived this or are about to. “That was such an intentional jump, and yeah, we were not prepared for that airtime,” one person wrote, which is the only correct way to describe what we all just witnessed.

Another added, “You can’t even stop them. You just gotta laugh,” and that feels like hard-earned wisdom. Because once a Golden Retriever decides your garden is food, it’s not really your garden anymore.

“The world is their salad bar” might be the most accurate summary of all time, while someone else confirmed, “Mine does the exact same with the one and only banana plant growing in my backyard.” Not the whole yard. Just the one plant. Targeted chaos.

“They think they can fly” also made an appearance, and honestly… after that jump, I’m not ruling it out.

And then, of course: “OMG, I just remembered the salad bar at Ruby Tuesday’s,” which unlocked a memory I was not prepared to revisit. Just standing there with your little plate, making deeply questionable decisions with shredded cheese and croutons. This dog has that same energy, but with zero restraint.

Also, I really hope those plants aren’t poisonous, because this was not a “one-bite” situation. This was a commitment.

Image Via: Masarik/Shutterstock

Many common garden plants can be toxic to dogs, so it’s worth knowing what might turn your “salad bar” into a problem.

Some of the most common toxic plants include tulips, daffodils, azaleas, lilies, and certain types of ivy. Even tomato plants, while the fruit is generally safe when ripe, have leaves and stems that can be harmful if eaten by pups.

Herbs like chives and garlic are also dangerous, even though they seem harmless, and some decorative plants like foxglove and oleander can be highly toxic.

If a dog eats something questionable, symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy, or more serious reactions depending on the plant.

The safest approach is to double-check anything you plant and keep an eye on pups who, like this Golden Retriever, seem to believe your entire yard exists for their personal tasting menu.

Because once they decide it’s a buffet, there is no going back.

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The problem with shopping at Five Below is that once you’re done shopping for yourself, there’s always the urge to take a peek at the pet section before leaving. With everything from sports-themed cat scratchers to stylish dog bowl sets, adorable socks, toys and more under one roof, every visit turns up something intriguing you’ll want to bring home.

This week’s new obsession? A duo of snack-themed dog toys any good boy or girl would be excited to add to their collection. Sporting a cool $5 price tag and available in both Claussen Pickle and Oreo styles, the Licensed Pet Plush Toy is your furry friend’s ticket to hours of fun with a toy that looks just like a couple of foods that are usually totally off-limits.

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Five Below

Located at the magical place where tail wagging meets lip-smacking fun, these adorable plush toys are a must-have in the house, on road trips, visits to see family and more. Designed with a squeaker inside, each one features a different type of texture fit to match their unique shape. At $5 a piece, they’re equally great for your little one as it is the perfect gift for any dog-loving friend. 

Available both in-store and online, shoppers can choose from Claussen Pickle and Oreo designs, both of which your fur baby will be more than excited to dig their teeth into. The Claussen Pickle features a classic pickle shape, plump and bumpy for extra texture, along with a soft fuzz that offers a satisfying bite. It also features a cute smile paired with cartoonish eyes, plus the classic Claussen logo across the front.

Related: Five Below’s Whimsical $7 Find Brings Iconic Animal Fun to Summer Pool Parties

Five Below

The Oreo toy, on the other hand, features the familiar Oreo cookie shape, complete with a bite taken out of it and classic Oreo branding. The cookie has a tougher exterior than the pickle, making it a solid option for tough chewers, while the “bite” section is made from soft white fabric, creating a dual-texture design your pup will love to explore.

With two solid toy options available at the same $5 price point, these adorable plush picks are a no-brainer for anyone looking to elevate playtime for their furry friend. And when it comes to dog toys, texture isn’t just a bonus, it’s a big part of the appeal. Different materials can keep pups engaged longer, giving them something new to chew, tug and explore instead of losing interest after a few sessions.

While Five Below doesn’t specify the exact size of each toy, styles like these are typically best suited for small to medium-sized dogs. That said, the retailer has been known to carry multiple size variations, so larger pups may get their turn soon. In the meantime, these snack-inspired finds are an easy add to your cart, and worth checking out alongside Five Below’s Rockin’ Bull Pool Float and whimsical dog training kit.

Related: Pet Parents Are Raving About Aldi's Cute and Stylish $7 Rainy Day Essential

Choosing a pet for a family with kids is one of those decisions that benefits from a little more thought upfront. Done right, it can be incredibly rewarding for everyone involved. Kids learn empathy, responsibility, and what it means to care for something beyond themselves. But the reality is, the day-to-day responsibility still falls heavily on the adults.

The first step is making sure everyone is actually on board—not just with the idea of a pet, but with the specific type of animal and the work that comes with it. Different pets come with very different expectations, and mismatched expectations are where things tend to fall apart. 

Before committing, it helps to think through a few key factors:

Lifespan is a big one—some pets are short-term companions, while others are with you for decades, like some tortoises. That emotional attachment matters, especially for kids. Space is another consideration. A pet might seem manageable at first, but will your home still work when they’re fully grown?

Care and cost are where things get real. Every animal has specific needs, and those needs don’t pause when life gets busy. Veterinary care, food, habitat setup, and ongoing maintenance all add up, so it’s important to be realistic about both time and budget.

It’s also worth thinking about what kind of interaction your child actually wants. Some kids want a hands-on, cuddly companion, while others are perfectly happy observing something more independent. Not every pet is going to want to be handled—and that mismatch can lead to frustration on both sides.

Personality matters too, both for the child and the pet. A calm, patient kid may do well with a more delicate animal, while a high-energy child might need something a little sturdier and more interactive.

Ages 4–7: At this age, it’s less about responsibility and more about gentle interaction plus learning how to handle animals.

Best fits:

• Parakeets (very affectionate, enjoy regular, gentle handling)
• Crested geckos (calm, active during day)
• Fish (honorable mention)

Why: These are low-maintenance, small, and relatively forgiving, but still require supervision. Kids this age are just starting to understand how to be calm and gentle with animals. Think: your pet with a tiny assistant.

Ages 8–11: Now you’re getting into kids who can actually participate in care—with reminders.

Best fits:

• Rats (yes! Think: Ratatouille. Underrated, loving, hardy, very smart)
• Guinea pigs (cute, enjoy human company, gentle)
• Canaries or finches (fun to watch, sing when happy)

Why: These pets introduce routine (feeding, cleaning, basic care) without being overwhelming. They’re interactive enough to bond with, but not as demanding as a dog. This is the age when kids start understanding schedules and consistency. 

Ages 12–15: Now we’re talking actual involvement—not just helping.

Best fits:

• Rabbits (bond to caregivers, cuddly, require more care)
• Bearded dragons (enjoy being handled, unique, sturdy)
• Cats and dogs (with supervision)

Why: Older kids can handle more complex care, consistency, and long-term commitment. They’re also better at reading animal behavior and respecting boundaries. These pets require real time, money, and emotional investment—so you still need to be fully on board.

At the end of the day, the best pet isn’t the trendiest or the cutest—it’s the one that fits your family’s lifestyle in a realistic, sustainable way. When that alignment is there, it can be an incredibly positive experience for both kids and the animals they care for.

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Animal advocate Isabel Klee recently found her most recent foster dog, Marmie, her forever home and it's definitely a perfect match. The little brown pooch had a traumatic past and due to her history of abuse, she is fearful of men. After fostering over 30 dogs, Klee has a keen sense of pairing these fur babies with families and knew Marmie would thrive in a quiet environment surrounded by feminine vibes.

Marmie just met her new family, and she's got a whole team of females in her corner ready to give her the love she deserves.

From a life of cruelty to a life of love 🥹 Marmie is SO spoiled and adored by her new family, and I can’t wait to share more of her in her new home! @Muddy Paws Rescue

Klee shared the happy adoption news in a recent TikTok from @simonsits as she snuggled Marmie in her arms.

"We are very excited for her to meet her new family," the famous foster mom said. "They have been texting me the past few days, just so excited to meet her, so excited to bring her home."

Klee revealed why this family was so special and perfectly suited for Miss Marmie.

"The very best part about this adoption is that Marmie is going to a house full of women," Klee explained. "She's getting adopted by a woman, her 9-year-old daughter, and her mother... It's gonna be a little Barbie dream house for a girl who doesn't really like men that much and we could not be happier for her."

The three women spent time with Marmie in Klee's backyard, where the canine cutie let them give her lots of belly rubs. Marmie's fur baby foster brother, Simon, was present as well to oversee all the introductions.

Marmie's new girl squad played with her and gave her treats, where you could see the sweet pooch warming up. Photos were taken to commemorate the happy occasion before Marmie got in the car to head to her forever home with her new family.

Related: Rescue Dog Gets Most Beautiful Chance at Happiness After 900 Days in Shelter

"Literally could not have picked a better family for her if I tried," Klee remarked with a smile, thrilled to see Marmie starting her next wonderful chapter. "We saved another life."

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When a child goes missing, every minute matters. And for one young girl in Colorado, help came faster than anyone could have hoped, thanks to a very good dog on his very first mission.

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According to a Fox News report, an Arapahoe County Sheriff’s K-9 named Rex located a missing 7-year-old girl in just 12 minutes during his first-ever tracking mission.

The Colorado child had been separated from her mom for more than two hours. The mom called the police and, thankfully, Deputy John Gray and Rex, a black Labrador, responded to the call. Once Rex was brought in, things moved quickly.

After being given the girl’s shoes to pick up her scent, Rex immediately got to work and didn’t waste any time following the trail. Just 12 minutes later, he led Deputy Gray to a nearby backyard where the girl was hiding. 

Related: Service Dog-in-Training's Overly Enthusiastic Response to a Command Has the Internet Laughing

Rex completed his tracking training just last year, and this mission marked his first real-world test in the field. Safe to say, he passed.

But Rex’s skills don’t stop at tracking. He’s also trained in explosives detection and therapy work, and that well-rounded training proved especially valuable in this case.

After locating the young girl—and earning a well-deserved toy reward from his handler—Rex seamlessly tapped into his training as a therapy dog, offering comfort when the girl asked to pet him. Instead of simply ending the search, he stayed by her side, providing quiet support when she needed it most.

Moments like this are the result of lots of hard work from both Rex and his handlers. 

Deputy Gray says that Rex trains every single day. For tracking, that training typically includes:

• Scent work: Learning to identify and follow a specific human scent from an item (like clothing or shoes)
• Search patterns: Practicing how to track across different terrains (grass, pavement, neighborhoods)
• Obedience and control: Responding immediately to handler commands, even in high-stress situations
• Distraction training: Staying on task despite noises, people or other animals
• Scenario-based drills: Simulating real-life searches so the dog is prepared for actual missions

All of this is practiced regularly to keep their skills sharp and reliable when it matters most.

That consistent training paid off in a big way during this first mission, and it likely made all the difference in bringing the young girl home safely.

Related: This Allergy Alert Service Dog Will Drop Anything to Get His Human Her Meds—and We’re Impressed

There are some moments that are so peaceful, so perfectly still, that they stop you mid-scroll. Lily the moon bear floating in cool water, eyes closed, completely at rest—this is one of those stop scrolling moments.

Free the Bears shared the TikTok with a caption that says it all: "Cool water, quiet time, and nothing to fear 💚" The text overlay reads, "A rescue moon bear who finally feels safe enough to rest" and that means everything.

Lily is a rescued moon bear. Moon bears, also known as Asian black bears, get their unique name from the cream-colored crescent markings they have on their chest. They're intelligent, emotionally complex animals who communicate through animated facial expressions, show empathy, and form deep bonds with others.

Cool water, quiet time, and nothing to fear 💚 Help us provide a safe home for rescued bears like Lily, by joining or donating to our Night in a Cage Challenge for 2026. Our annual fundraiser brings wildlife champions from all over the world together on 9 May, to raise vital funds to help us rescue bears in Asia from bile farms and the illegal wildlife trade. Learn more at the link in our bio. #sanctuary #moonbear #wildliferescue #freethebears

In the wild, moon bears are great climbers who build scaffolds in tree canopies to rest. However, Lily the moon bear didn't come from the wild. She came from a bile farm.

The comments reflect what people were feeling seeing her at peace.

"There are moon bears?" somebody asked, discovering the species for the first time.

"Me, when I want to close my eyes for a second and wind up hibernating," one fan related to Lily’s level of relaxation.

"No animal should have to go through this but thank you for what you do 🥹," one commenter acknowledged both the cruelty of the situation and the rescue.

Here's what makes this capture so powerful: for the first time, Lily is experiencing something she never could before. Cool water, quietness, safety and the ability to just rest without interruption or fear.

Related: Moment Polar Bear Cubs Snuggle Into Mom for Warmth Captured in Rare Video

Currently, more than 20,000 Asian black bears are held on bile farms in China. There bile is extracted through very painful procedures while they live in cramped cages. Bears raised in these conditions have never climbed, never foraged, never done a single thing natural to their species.

Trauma doesn't disappear when circumstances change. Rescued bears often show compulsive behaviors—rocking, pacing—that can go on for life. But sanctuaries like the one where Lily now lives provide space, enrichment, and safety that allows healing to begin.

Lily floating peacefully in water? That's what healing looks like.

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Free the Bears is raising funds through their Night in a Cage Challenge on May 9, where wildlife supporters spend a night in a cage to raise awareness and money for bear rescue efforts. The money helps rescue bears from bile farms and the illegal wildlife trade across Asia.

Lily finally feels safe enough to let her guard down and rest. Organizations like Free the Bears are working to give that same peace to other bears still waiting to be rescued.

Though some dogs immediately bound for the door when they see a leash or hear keys or the word "walk," not all dogs feel the same way.

In a new video from @itsmrhank featuring Hank, the Bulldog, and his sister Bow, we see two of the cutest Bulldogs ever who have zero enthusiasm about going for a walk.

Though they both have their leashes on already, Bow is in her bed, and Hank is strewn about on the floor.

As they look at their mom, their facial expressions say, "You must be joking. Going outside for a walk on a sunny day? That's madness."

In the caption, their mom writes, "2 Bulldogs refusing to go on a walk."

There were some good comments on this short and sweet video, including one person who said, "Haha!! At least they don’t wait 'til you leave the house to stop moving."

That is a good point!

A typical day in a bulldog household 🫧😅 #bulldog #englishbulldog #bulldogpuppy #puppytiktok

But like most Bulldogs, they tend not to look excited about most things, as we see in this "A Day in the Life" video of Hank and Bow's morning routine, in which Hank can't believe how long his mom makes him wait to have his breakfast.

Bow is a bit more obedient as she really wants her food.

Enjoy this day wherever you are 🎾🫧🌷 Hank & Bow xo #bulldog #englishbulldog #bulldogpuppy #rescuedog #dogroutine

For more great and funny Bulldog content, definitely follow this account.

Related: English Bulldog Gets Caught Stealing Dog Food and the Evidence Is Priceless

You may have surmised that Bulldogs are not the most active of dog breeds, but they still need regular exercise.

According to Doggysaurus, Bulldogs should be walked once a day, and possibly even twice.

They should do around 20 minutes of walking, but not exceed 40 minutes in total during the day.

Bulldogs tend to be more reluctant to go for walks because of their genetics.

These pups are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have short noses and flat faces.

This anatomical structure can make breathing harder, so during walks, they can tire more easily and need to rest.

So it makes sense why they may try to avoid walks!

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Experts have long since weighed in on the value of having a dog in the house. Our furry friends can help us stay happier, more active, and even help us humans stay healthy. Chalk those daily (or more) walks with your canine can lower blood pressure, and thank your pup for all the new friends you have met along the way. Adding a dog to the family can lead to an increase in mood and joy, but if you’re looking for the ultimate companion dog, some breeds are more likely to become your best buddy.

Happy to be anywhere my pawrents are 🤎🫶 #beauthechocolatelabrador #labradorsoftiktok #dogsofmiami #labradorretriever #miami

The experts at Country Living just shared their latest list of the best companion dogs. No surprise to anyone who has one in the house, Labrador Retrievers took the No. 1 spot, proving the breed is the ultimate companion. Here’s why:

“This breed is known for being friendly, outgoing and gentle,” Tarik says. “They are also highly intuitive and sensitive to human emotions, which can help them feel when their owners might need their emotional support and attention,” says dog training expert Tarik Jayousi.

cannot deal with this boys sassyness😂 #chocolatelabrador #chocolatelabs #fyp #labradorretriever

Known for being highly affectionate, outgoing, social, and energetic, this breed makes for a great best buddy, but Retrievers need a lot of exercise. Their easygoing personalities make them terrific candidates for families.

If your Lab doesn’t keep you busy going on walks, looking for sticks, and sniffing out the neighborhood, Labs will keep you busy with their grooming needs. This breed sheds a lot, but considering you’ll get a best friend and exercise companion in this sweet dog breed, the cleanup will be well worth the time.

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Does your child love the creepy crawlies of the world? Do they play with spiders they find outside or ask for a terrarium to keep a scorpion or snake? Then they will absolutely adore this LEGO kit. The 153-piece LEGO Creator 3 in 1 Surprising Spider Building Toy is now just $10 on Amazon. It's a great deal!

With this 3 in 1 kit, your child can build three intriguing creepy crawlers from the same set of bricks: a spider, a snake, and a scorpion. Of course, they'll want to start with the spider. Not only is it super cool looking, but it even has a "spider web thread" that it hangs from, just like the real thing!

Each animal has joints on their legs and bodies, so they can move and be posed in all sorts of fun positions for creative storytelling. The spider even has an extendable neon yellow string that comes out of its back and can be used to hang it from a LEGO brick!

One happy buyer writes: "One of the best sets I have ever gotten. All of the legs move and he even is attached to a string which can be spun up and let him drop down. A big hit at home."

Courtesy of Amazon

If your child needs an extra nudge while building one of these critters, they can use the LEGO Builder app for hints and step-by-step instructions!

On Amazon, buyers rate this a whopping 4.8 out of 5 stars with more than 2,700 reviews. They can't stop raving about how awesome this kit is to use.

Check out some of their five-star reviews:

• "The spider has a string which can be retracted or used to let it hang somewhere. And while I wouldn't want to meet up with any of these critters in real life, they were a lot of fun to build."
• "I got this for my nephew's 8th birthday as he likes LEGOs and is super into spiders right now. Definitely a hit."
• "My 6 and 8 year olds love spiders and this was right up their alley. It was easy to build. We like to use the app over the book. This made a great affordable gift!"

The LEGO Creator 3 in 1 Surprising Spider Building Toy is an amazing deal for just $10. At such a low price, you can even buy multiple kits so your child can put each animal on display rather than breaking one down to build the next!

As one buyer writes, "all three builds were amazing."

Amazon offers free delivery and free 30-day refunds/replacements.

Related: Amazon Is Selling a 'Charming' 166-Piece LEGO Set Perfect for Hamster Lovers

At first, no one knew what they were hearing. Somewhere deep in the well, something was crying, and it wasn’t stopping.

It was easy to miss if no one stopped to listen. Finally, someone did hear and called for help.

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A baby elephant, likely separated from its herd while searching for water, was wedged deep in the mud, exhausted from hours of struggling to climb the slick walls.

What followed was a careful rescue that turned a desperate situation into something hopeful.

The video, which is a clip from the PBS television series NATUREBecoming Elephant: The Orphans Of Reteti, shows how people at the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary in Kenya are fighting for every animal.

As the narrator in the video explains, elephants can smell water, and sometimes, when they cannot reach it, they lose their footing and fall into the water.

Elephant herds are often forced to move on for their own survival, leaving calves behind when their rescue attempts fail.

When people contacted the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, they immediately reacted. Wells and water holes can be dangerous for wildlife, especially young animals.

As the volunteers climbed down, the calf screamed and thrashed, exhausted but still fighting. Baby elephants can weigh between 200 and 300 pounds. Because of their weight, not a single person can help them.

Related: Adorable ‘Tiny Giant’ Rhino Calf Makes Heartwarming Zoo Debut

This rescue operation needed several volunteers working together to pick up the trapped animal. Once they got him to safety, they petted him to show him he was safe.

Back at the sanctuary, the baby will get plenty of care. Volunteers will try to earn his trust so that he can heal and get back on his feet.

As the rescuer in the video said, “You're just constantly thinking about them. You're sort of waking up in the night, and it's the first thing that you think about.”

Rescues like this don’t end at the well.

Organizations like the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary step in to care for orphaned or injured elephants. Located in northern Kenya, Reteti is community-run and focuses on rehabilitation with the goal of eventually returning elephants to the wild.

Young elephants need constant care. Feeding, monitoring and even emotional support. They form bonds with their keepers, much like they would within a herd. This baby elephant got his second chance because someone heard his cry from the well.

Someone chose to stop and help. If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, even with a cat or a dog, stop. You might help an animal in need.

Related: Rare Baby Blue Duiker Born at Cincinnati Zoo Is Almost Too Tiny to Believe

Some moments in nature are so intimate, so perfect, so breathtaking that witnessing them feels like an exclusive privilege. It is. National Geographic just shared one of those beautiful moments.

Along the coast of Hudson Bay, photographer Martin Gregus Jr. captured rare footage of polar bear cubs pressing close and cuddling into their mother as the sun rose over the Arctic landscape. The caption reads, "Along the coast of Hudson Bay, polar bear cubs depend entirely on their mother for warmth, protection, and nourishment in their first years. As the sun rises, the cubs wake, stretch, and press close to nurse while she scans her surroundings."

It's the kind of rare footage that stops you mid-scroll. The cubs, small and vulnerable, instinctively snuggle into their mother's body and warmth. Mama remains watchful, scanning the vast surroundings even while her babies nurse. It's motherly protection and pure tenderness captured in a single frame. And it’s absolutley stunning to watch from afar.

Along the coast of Hudson Bay, polar bear cubs depend entirely on their mother for warmth, protection, and nourishment in their first years. As the sun rises, the cubs wake, stretch, and press close to nurse while she scans her surroundings. Captured on film by Martin Gregus Jr. @Martin Greguš Jr., this moment shows how even at rest, a mother polar bear remains watchful over her cubs.

The comments reflect what everyone was feeling.

"They’re so precious,"which feels completely appropriate.

"National Geographic I love you. Keep up the great work of trying to save our earth and its beautiful creatures!" one fan expressing gratitude for this remarkable work. Without it, we would never be able to experience this up close.

"TOE BEANS! 🐾" because polar bear paws always deserve recognition.

"Sweet precious mama taking care of her babies 🥰," capturing the mother and child bond; the mama bear spirit.

Related: Think Your Puppy Is Affordable? The Lifetime Cost May Surprise You

One polar bear loving commenter admitted, "My toxic trait is thinking that if I approached them, mama would be cool and hug me 😭," while another said, "I had to remind myself that they actively hunt humans. 😩"

Both comments acknowledge an important truth: these are wild animals. Beautiful, yes. Majestic, absolutely. But polar bears are apex predators, and mother bears protecting cubs are particularly dangerous.

Here's what makes this footage so special: we're witnessing something incredibly intimate without disturbing it. This video is allowing us to bear witness to things we wouldn’t normally get the chance to see, as it happens naturally. Polar bear cubs remain with their moms for roughly two and a half to three years, learning everything they need to survive in one of the Earth's harshest environments.

During those early months, the bond is total. Cubs depend on their mother for warmth in brutal Arctic cold, protection from threats, and nourishment from her milk. She doesn't eat or drink for months while nursing them in the den after they're born.

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We live in an extraordinary time in history. Technological advances allow photographers like Martin Gregus Jr. to capture these moments from a respectful distance, giving us glimpses into wildlife behavior without encroaching on their natural habitat or safety.

This is the gift of modern wildlife photography: intimacy without interference. Beauty experienced without disturbance. Connection without actual physical contact.

We get the privilege of witnessing a mama polar bear caring for her cubs at sunrise on Hudson Bay. And they get to remain wild, undisturbed, exactly as they should be.

At first, he looks like a proud hiking dog. Then you see what he’s carrying.

One dog posted on Reddit in r/WhatsWrongWithYourDog managed to roll in something no one wanted to get close to during a camping trip. And what did his owner do? He could only laugh at and describe it as a “badge of honor." And yes, the dog looked genuinely pleased with himself.

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Anyone who has taken a dog into the woods knows this moment is always a possibility.

You plan the perfect day. Fresh air, quiet trails, a happy dog running ahead. Then, at some point, your dog disappears for just a little too long.

When they come back, you already know something happened.

As one commenter on the Reddit post said, “I’m laughing and sympathizing with you at the same time. I’ve been through this very thing myself! More than once. Some dogs, not ALL, love to roll in the stinkiest most horrific dead thing or poopy thing they can find, and be so happy and proud of themselves!!!”

And you never know what they will find. Another commenter said, “He’s got that look that says 'hey dad you’ll never guess what I found!'”

Related: Heartwarming Moment Rescued Pit Bull Experiences Joyful First Hiking Trip

This behavior isn’t random. It’s actually deeply rooted in instinct.

Researchers believe dogs roll in strong smells to mask their own scent, a behavior inherited from their wild ancestors like wolves. In the wild, covering their scent could help them approach prey or communicate information back to their pack.

Camping with a dog is rarely the serene, Instagram-worthy experience people imagine. Between the dog deciding to go for a 3:00 a.m. swim in a stagnant pond or finding a "treasure" to roll in just before you get back into the car, nature has a way of testing your patience.

You might find yourself frantically scrubbing fur with a water bottle and a spare sock while your dog looks at you with pure, unbothered joy.

So, the next time your dog turns a hiking trip into a muddy disaster, remember that they are experiencing the world through their strongest sense.

They aren't trying to ruin your car upholstery; they are engaging with the environment in the most profound way they know how, and that's why this dog and others may look and feel like they just won the lottery when they're covered in who-knows-what.

Related: Dramatic Pug 'Crashes Out' on Hike Every Time Dad Tries to Take a Break

Maine Coons are so special. Even cats on the smaller side are still pretty big, and they grow up so fast. If you have a Maine Coon kitten and a regular kitten at the same time, the difference will be very, very hard to miss.

Recently, one vet got to see a true Maine Coon kitten. At just 9 months old, he's already ultra-fluffy and over a foot long! They were in awe of his beauty, his size, and his giant paws:

Gorgeous coat and all!! #fypシ゚viral #veterinarymedicine #techtok #mainecoon #catvideos

The Baby Tech Experience gets better whenever a true Maine Coon comes into the office. Beyond being amazing to look at, these cats are so friendly! They make friends at any vet office they go to, and they're very smart for doing that.

Vets keep treats close by at all times: that's the only way a lot of pets will sit still long enough for an exam. Being one of their favorites will entice them to slip you a couple of extras! I bet this kitty got quite a few.

Related: Giant Maine Coon’s ‘Post-Nap Ears’ Are the Cutest Bedhead

Since this cat doesn't belong to the vet, we don't know too much about him. He's 9 months old and already about a foot long! His paws are huge, too. Most impressively, he has more fur in him at 9 months old than most cats will grow in their entire lives!

She mentions in the video that it's kind of rare to see a true Maine Coon come through: they're a very popular breed, but they can also be kind of easy to "fake." Some cats, especially rescues, get mislabeled relatively frequently. She doesn't really care, though: all cats are awesome in her eyes!

All jokes 💕he was THE best patient and I’m not sure why he put himself in the corner like that, so I gave him a blanky 😭 #vetmed #fyp #vettechsoftiktok #kittycatsoftiktok

Putting themselves in time out of pretty definitive "non-Maine Coon behavior. Maine Coons will have a hard time believing they've done anything wrong, even when they definitely just committed a crime!

It can be easy to see a big, fluffy cat and immediately go, "Oh, that's a Maine Coon," or to claim that it's definitely part Maine Coon. However, it's simply not always the case. Mislabeling definitely happens!

Image via Shutterstock / Viktoria__bu

The only way to confirm that a cat is a Maine Coon, fully or partially, is through genetic testing. Breeders can quickly prove that their cats are purebred, but most shelters just don't have the resources to DNA-test every cat. Instead, they make their best guess.

Some physical features that may point to a cat being a Maine Coon are:

• Super hairy ears.
• Chiseled facial features.
• A very fluffy fur "collar" around their necks.
• Their size.

All cats are amazing, and whether a cat is a purebred Maine Coon or not doesn't really matter: they'll love you just the same! If you do get your paws on a true Maine Coon, though, be prepared for one big kitty!

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Before they even had names, they already had a following.

For employees at the Dallas Zoo, the hardest part wasn’t celebrating the two newborn tiger cubs. It was figuring out what to name them.

Born to 12-year-old Sumatran tiger Sukacita, popularly known as Suki, her cubs—a boy and a girl—came into this world weighing 2.5 pounds at birth. Since then, they have been thriving under Suki’s care.

In a video posted online by the Zoo, they barely look real yet. Tiny, unsteady, still learning how to move and climbing over their mother like it’s a game.

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The two cubs need names, and the Zoo decided to allow fans to pick the purr-fect one for the female cub. With every donation, you can cast a vote, and the name with the most support will be announced as the winner.

Related: Orphaned Mountain Lion Cub Gets Second Chance at Oakland Zoo

The voting closes on April 20, with three names as the finalists. Each name has a story to tell. Right now, the leading name is Rina, in honor of Rina PA, a ranger in the Sumatran Ranger Project.

The second name is Alya, pronounced “ah-lee-yah”, which is Arabic for “sky" or "heaven." Right now in third place is the name Merapi, which is the name of one of the most active volcanos in Sumatra.

Naming contests might seem simple, but they help achieve something powerful. They turn passive observers into participants, allowing guests to create a real connection with these cubs.

At the Dallas Zoo, two of the newest Sumatran tiger members are just getting started, but according to conservation groups, fewer than 400 Sumatran tigers remain in the wild.

Habitat loss and poaching continue to push their numbers down, even as conservation programs try to stabilize them. That means every birth matters. Every cub represents a small shift in a much larger fight to keep the species from disappearing entirely.

It’s easy to feel like conservation efforts are a distant thing happening somewhere else. But then a moment like this pulls it closer. Two cubs. A naming vote. A reason to care.

And sometimes, that’s how bigger change starts. Not with statistics, but with a small emotional connection that makes people pay attention. Voting doesn’t just pick a name. It makes you part of their story.

Every time you see an update on these cubs in the future, you will know you helped welcome them into a world that is working hard to ensure they have a place in it.

Related: Rare Bengal-Maine Coon’s Outside Time Is Total Tiger Vibes

Neither of my dogs likes to take a bath. My Dachshund is compliant at first, but turns into a little escape artist the minute I turn my back to grab the shampoo bottle. Her Pug brother peacefully protests going in the tub by planting his tush on the ground and refusing to move. I have to carry him in and then suds him up as quickly as possible before he has a meltdown. I've tried to make bath time a pleasant experience for them with toys, soft music, and even candles to give off some spa vibes, but to no avail.

Zara the Pit Bull doesn't seem to mind taking a bath but has one request that must be met before she puts one paw in the tub.

The kids yearn for disco #dogsoftiktok #funnypet #funnydogs #bathtime #pitbulls

Zara sat outside the tub in the bathroom and stared at her mom with an expectant look on her face.

"My dog won't get in the bath until I put her song on," the onscreen text explained.

The pretty Pittie patiently waited to get her beauty bath but needed her music masterpiece to first start playing.

"Are you ready?" Zara's mom asked. "You want Mommy to put your song on?"

Zara made a face that seemed to say, "uh, YEAH."

"Alright, we're going to the Zar wash," her mom declared as she put on the 70s classic, "Car Wash" by Rose Royce. As soon as Zara heard the first beat drop, she slowly made her way into the tub.

Although the primping pooch was happy to hear her favorite disco tune, she wasn't willing to get fully sudsed up until she heard the words being sung. Her mother assured her that the first stanza was starting soon.

Clearly moved by the lyrics, Zara was in full bath mode once she heard the "Car Wash" chorus as her mom sang along, appropriately changing the word "car" for "Zar". The canine cutie gave her mom kisses of appreciation for a job well done.

Followers got a kick out of Zara's bathtime ritual and understood her need for musical accompaniment.

Related: Pit Bull’s ‘Annoyed’ Reaction to Puppy Sister Takes the Sweetest Turn

"If I had a personalized shower song, I'd wait for the lyrics too," someone remarked.

"She's gotta get hyped for her bath," another pointed out.

"I have to pick a good song before I get in the shower too," one shared.

If Zara's tub tune helps her get her beauty regimen taken care of, then the precious pooch should get her wish.

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Horses are so cool. They're smart, too, and they can make awesome companions for families. There are lots of families who raise their kids around horses, and they're better for it. These gentle giants really do form the strongest bonds!

One sweet horse met her caretaker's new baby and pretty much immediately decided that he was actually hers. From that moment on, whenever she spotted the baby out and about, she was all over him. What a great protector:

Growing up together 💕 #horses #equestrian #farmer #fyp #love

Broken S Equine is quite the place to grow up! They have lots of land and a few horses, and they love them all like family. The horses love them right back! Whenever their caretaker and her family are out, they love coming over to say hello.

Related: Toddler’s Sweet Kindness for Rescued Horse Will Restore Your Faith in Humanity

Mostly, though, they're interested in her baby. She brought him out to meet them when he was just a few days old, and they fell in love. The horse in this video has particularly taken a liking to him, and whenever she can, she follows him around.

Luckily, he loves it. He wants to see her all the time! As he gets older, I won't be surprised when he starts sneaking out and trying to have sleepovers in her stable. They love to be together. History shows that they're not all that opposed to horses in the house, too:

Is a pony on your kids Christmas list? #pony #horse #christmas #santa

This is hilarious. Now make her a bedroom!

Whether an individual horse will love kids depends on their experiences, but for the majority of horses, kids are fine! In a lot of cases, horses might even feel "protective" over kids: they recognize that they're not a threat, but that they do need protection.

Image via Shutterstock / Ivanova Ksenia

If you really want your child to have a good relationship with your horse(s), they need to learn good behavior around them from a young age. That includes things like:

• Gentle hands when petting.
• No kicking.
• Don't put hands near their mouth while they're eating.
• No mane, tail, or ear pulling.

Luckily for this horse, her baby would never dream of doing anything like that. He knows he needs to respect her!

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You think you understand what a “big dog” looks like. And then something like this shows up and completely resets your expectations.

This Irish Wolfhound is standing in the kitchen next to his human dad, and I need you to picture this correctly. Even sitting, he is almost as big as Dad. Not close. Not kind of. Almost the same size. It’s giving… horse. It’s giving “why is there livestock in the kitchen” energy. Just check him out!

#irishwolfhound #wolfhound

The clip, shared on the TikTok account @austonley_wolfhounds, shows a massive gray-and-white Irish Wolfhound just standing there calmly, as if this is normal. Meanwhile, his human dad looks like he’s standing next to a creature that could absolutely take over the house if it wanted to.

People in the comments immediately lost it.

Related: Hairless Chinese Crested and Her Dog Mom Are Twinning With Huge Blue Anime Eyes

“Irish Wolfhounds are giant, but that’s a GIANT giant one, lol, how much does he weigh?” one person asked, and the answer somehow made it worse. 224 pounds.

“Sir, that is not a dog. It’s an Irish house horse!” which feels scientifically accurate.

“Dude needs his own king-size bed,” and honestly, yes. Possibly his own room.

“Sir, that’s not a dog, that’s a horse in your kitchen. Sweet big baby. Let me guess, it’s a lapdog, too,” which you already know the answer to.

“I thought my English Mastiff was big…” which says a lot.

“Stoooop. He is so giant, and I love him already.” Same.

“He’s a fabulously fluffy handsome chap,” which is a very polite way of saying enormous.

I keep staring at the size difference because it doesn’t feel real. Like if our dog, Kingston, suddenly scaled up to this, I would simply move out and let him have the house. Talk about Clifford the Big Red Dog!

What a privilege to spend my life with these ❤️ OK I have to go back to work tonight but this afternoon was perfect #packlife #irishwolfhound #wolfhound #yorkshire

Irish Wolfhounds are one of the tallest dog breeds in the world. Adult males can stand at least 32 inches tall at the shoulder, and many are even taller when fully grown.

Weight can vary, but males often range from around 140 to 180 pounds, with some, like this one, reaching well over 200 pounds. Their long legs and lean build make them appear even larger than their already impressive size.

Despite their massive stature, Irish Wolfhounds are known for being gentle, calm, and affectionate dogs. Often described as “gentle giants,” these pups tend to be very relaxed in the home.

Just… maybe make sure you have enough space. And possibly a reinforced couch.

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