Parade Pets

If I could have any pet in the world, it would either be a puppy-sized elephant or, if I have to stay within reason, a parrot. A big parrot, like a Macaw or a Cockatoo! I’ve always wanted one, but to be honest, I don’t think I’d actually enjoy having one.

So, I’ll just watch videos of people who do love having them. For example, one woman recently rescued a Blue-and-Gold Macaw, and he’s one of the most handsome, yet also one of the sassiest, parrots you’ll ever see:

Andrea is so kind to have taken this bird in. His name is Levi, and he’s 9 years old. She just took him in last month, but in that time, he’s already settling in very nicely. Luckily, she has plenty of experience with parrots, including a Scarlet Macaw!

Levi doesn’t do a lot of interacting with the other birds in his home, but that’s okay. He gets plenty of interaction with his mom, and he spends a lot of time outside of his cage, typically breaking things for fun and then blaming his mom for it.

Related: Little Girl Helps Disabled Parrot ‘Feel Like She’s Flying’ and She’s So Happy and Flappy

He’s a little weird, but I love it. Being rescued looks good on him! He has all of the snacks he could ever want, including snacks he uses to scratch all of his itches…

I can honestly say that I have never seen anything like this before in my life. I love it! Honestly, I feel like it works: crackers typically have salt on them. Great for exfoliating!

Levi is not the only parrot in the world who thinks it’s fun to break things around his house. All parrots tend to have this habit, even smaller ones! It can just seem like more destruction because he’s so big.

Passakorn_14 / Getty Images

Parrots are very destructive. They love to shred things with their talons and beaks: it’s something they do often in the wild, and a necessary enrichment activity in captivity. Shredding things allows them to:

• Focus on something.
• Naturally keep their beaks and claws down.
• Gather materials to nest with.

It’s a natural behavior, and if they aren’t specifically given things to shred, they’ll find them. Luckily for Levi, he gets all of the destructible stuff he could ever want, and more!

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Some cats really hit the jackpot when they find their forever family by chance. I like to think that some of them, the really clever kitties, seek out those they know will give them the life of luxury all cats deserve.

One stray cat who bears a resemblance to a possum chose his people very wisely. Now, he has his very own “apartment” all decked out in the cutest American Girl decor!

My 3-year-old said absolutely NOT, this man will not be living in poverty. 😂😭🐱 From the streets to fully furnished in 4 days. #StrayKitten #RescueKitten #KittenTok #CatTok #FosterFail

Thanks to his new mom, @shannon.loy2, Floki’s life has drastically improved, and that’s an understatement! The American Girl setup includes a Barbie-pink living room and bedroom set up with a TV, blankets, and accessories that Floki is absolutely loving. This is everything a cool luxury apartment needs—especially because this stray cat pays $0 rent and has a full-time staff!

Related: Free-Spirited Stray Cat Chases Butterflies and Accidentally Finds Her New Mom

Considering where he was days prior, this precious boy deserves it all. The sweet boy was found under Shannon’s car dehydrated, hungry, and flea-ridden—actually looking a little like a possum. After making sure he wasn’t microchipped, he became part of the shelter’s system while his new foster family indulges his every whim.

“At this point, I’m not sure if we rescued him or he secured a sugar family,” Mom joked, and I think we all know the answer to that! She added, “It’s been 5 days, and he’s already forgotten his humble beginnings.” That much is clear:

UPDATE: Apparently rescuing him wasn’t enough. He needed housing, furniture, entertainment, AND a full-time staff. 😂😭🐱 It’s been 5 days and he’s already forgotten his humble beginnings. #StrayKitten #RescueKitten #KittenTok #CatTok #FunnyCats

The housing updates keep getting better and better. For the latest view of Floki’s digs, Shannon shared another update you can watch here. Don’t show this to my cats or I’m in big trouble.

If, like Shannon, you’ve ever found a stray cat chilling near your house, there are a few ways you can help, depending on their situation. If they’re friendly enough for you to get near them, check for tags or a collar (or a microchip at the vet), but if they’re part of a feral colony and skittish, a local Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program will ensure they’re safe and healthy, without disrupting their life outdoors.

To help rescue cats who are injured, young, or in need of medical attention, contact a local rescue group or shelter and look into low-cost spay/neuter clinics, which are usually offered for strays. Even if you’re not able to officially adopt the cat, getting community support, like from a shelter, comes with the added help of finding them a home.

For the true-blue stray cats who refuse to be indoors, make sure they have fresh water and report any sightings to shelter and rescue groups. They won’t all get such a dramatic, rags-to-riches American Girl ending like Floki did, but they still deserve some version of a happy ending.

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Some dogs in shelters end up being repeatedly passed over for no apparent reason. These precious pooches wait to be chosen, yet continue to be overlooked despite having so much to offer. The longer they wait, the more they withdraw and lose hope.

Mikey the German Shepherd mix has been in a foster home of Lucky Dog Animal Rescue for over five years (you read that right — FIVE YEARS). This canine cutie would make a wonderful addition to any family, but no one has given him a chance.

The Instagram post from @not.one.more.day shared details on Mikey and revealed the exact shocking number of days he’s been overlooked for adoption.

“Mikey has been waiting 1,949 days for his forever home,” the caption read. “And if you ask us, that is 1,949 days WAY too long for a dog this special!”

Described as the “the ultimate dog’s dog,” Mikey loves being around other fur babies of all ages and sizes. According to Mikey’s bio, he’s approximately 7 to 8 years old and is considered a warm and friendly social butterfly.

“When he’s not busy making friends, Mikey is a total sweetheart,” the post continued. “He’s cuddly, great with new people, has good house and crate manners, and knows his sit, down, come, and especially his name — his recall is excellent!”

When rescue and shelter dogs aren’t adopted within a certain amount of time, potential pet parents assume there is some sort of health or behavioral problem. This inaccurate perception creates a stigma around the dog, where they stop even being considered by adopters even though they would make wonderful pets.

Lucky Dog Animal Rescue doesn’t want Mikey to be overlooked any longer and is committed to finding him the loving home he deserves. He doesn’t require much — just some love with a big yard to play in and some daily activities to fully thrive.

Related: Shelter’s ‘Longest Resident’ Dog Meets New Dad and It’s ‘Love at First Sight’

“Mikey is looking for a home with a fenced-in yard where he can enjoy plenty of enrichment and mental stimulation,” the caption noted. “He’s a working shepherd who thrives when his brain has something to do!”

The post concluded with a final plea for someone to open their heart to this very special dog: “After nearly 5 1/2 years of waiting, Mikey deserves someone who will see all the amazing things that make him Mikey the Goober and give him the chance to finally be home.”

For more information on Mikey or the Lucky Dog Animal Rescue, visit their website.

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Ragdoll kittens are my second favorite breed of kittens in the whole world, with the first being Maine Coons. There’s just something special about their tiny, fluffy bodies and their little baby paws! I just adore them.

Apparently, I’m not the only one. When one Ragdoll cat had a litter of kittens recently, her sister couldn’t leave them alone! They might be freshly birthed, but that didn’t stop her from going and getting some snuggles from them:

The mama cats are back in the kitten room. We’ll see if Penny keeps the kittens in the box this time

Pearl’s Ragdolls are all raised in her house, and they’re all one big family. Everybody takes care of everybody, so when a cat has a litter of kittens, she’s often grateful to have the extra paws. When it comes to Penny, there’s basically no stopping her.

These kittens are a little older now, which is why their mama is okay with Auntie Penny picking them up and moving them around. For the first few weeks, they tend to be very defensive of their babies, even from cats they’ve known for years.

Related: Rare ‘Chocolate-Covered’ Ragdoll Cat Is the Most Perfect Boy

Penny just loves these babies. They don’t go anywhere she’s not following, even if they’re just going over to have a snuggle with Pearl! She wants to make sure they’re safe wherever they go:

Penny wanted to be right next to me while I cuddled with the kittens

She’s such a cool color, too. I love everything about her, but most of all, I love how devoted she is to her family. She wants everyone to be happy and healthy!

In the wild, there are a ton of species that raise their babies completely alone. They don’t want help, and if you try to, you’ll be lucky to escape with your life! Cats aren’t quite like that, though, at least in most cases.

Getty Images Esin Deniz

Cats will take care of other kittens (and even other species) frequently, from watching over and protecting them to snuggling and even nursing them when needed. This has a lot of benefits for both Mama and her babies, including:

• Reducing stress.
• Improving social skills.
• Providing extra protection from predators.

Clearly, the mama of this litter of Ragdoll kittens cares a lot about her babies, but she trusts Penny, too. Trust, if she didn’t, those babies would not be going anywhere!

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Parade Pets aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

It’s no secret that dogs love to play. And as fun as it is for us to play with our furry friends, it’s nice when they can entertain themselves while you’re not around as well. That’s where toys like the Boots & Barkley Bat Plush Dog Toy come in handy.

New to Target and retailing for just $4.99, this cuddly and crinkly plush find is here just in time for spooky season, offering your pet something they can enjoy while you chow down on Halloween candy. Perfect for dogs of all ages and ready to complement your seasonal decor, this adorable little bat is an easy way to give your pet some festive action of their own.

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Target

If you’re already a big fan of Halloween, the Boots & Barkley Bat Plush Dog Toy is probably already a no-brainer at first look. But when you get into its playful details, it clearly becomes much more than a cute little toy. Best of all, its $5 price tag means it doesn’t break the bank, so even if you’ve got a tough chewer at home, you can easily pick a second one up without worrying about spending too much. 

Made of polyester, the toy offers a soft, fluffy feel and is designed to look like a playful black bat, complete with wing, face and ear details in varying shades of pink and purple. With hidden crinkle material throughout the wings and body for extra fun, it also measures 7 inches long with a 14 inch wingspan, making it super easy to pick up and carry around the house, play fetch with or cuddle.

Related: This ‘Genius’ Pet Essential Has Pet Parents Snatching Up Every Color

While shoppers are still discovering this new arrival in stores and online, one early reviewer offered some helpful insight for pet parents considering it for their pups. Calling the bat “so cute,” they shared that their dog had a field day tearing into it, with the toy lasting only one play session before the stuffing ended up on the floor. With that in mind, it’s worth reserving it for dogs who prefer cuddling and fetching over chewing, while more enthusiastic chewers may need a backup just in case.

In any case, at $5 a pop, snatching one (or two) up hardly breaks the bank, and it can even serve as creative Halloween decor around the house at the same time. Just be sure you snatch it up fast, as it’s only a matter of time before other Halloween lovers grab it for their furry friends. And if you need more spooky season inspiration, why not check out Target’s spooky cat condo and haunted cat house while you’re there?

Related: Hobby Lobby’s Plush $3 Pet Essential Brings a Nostalgic Twist to Playtime

I, like everyone else in the world, love orange cats. They’re hilarious, and most of us grew up with Garfield. Who doesn’t love Garfield? Not every orange cat is just like Garfield, though… There are plenty of orange cats who look just like famous gingers!

For example, this orange cat looks exactly like Ed Sheeran. She’s just a baby, but already, she has a lot of personality, and soon enough, she’ll have a thriving music career. Just you wait!

Benedict says he’s the only baby in this house 👀

Benedict and Dorothy are too cute together, even when they fight. Both of them actually look a little bit like Ed Sheeran. Benedict is still getting used to having a baby sister: he was an only child for a long time. Now, Dorothy is here, and she’s stealing the spotlight.

It’s really the orange markings on her face that have her looking the most like Ed Sheeran. Back when he was just getting started, he used to keep some of his hair in his face, and his hairline looked almost exactly like hers.

Related: Orange Maine Coon Gives Birth to a Litter of Pumpkin Spice Babies

Being Ed Sheeran’s four-legged twin isn’t the only interesting thing about her, though. Dorothy is the world’s biggest fan of snuggling. She wants to spend all of her time with her mom, no matter what, and when she can’t, her mom puts her in a sock to keep her warm:

i mean, would u not??

I mean, it works! She’s fostering a few of Dorothy’s littermates right now, and keeping them in socks just seems to help keep them calm. I’m glad they’ve found something that works!

One of the main things people love to say about orange cats, even when they’re only partially orange, is that they’re not like other cats. They claim they’re crazier and that having an orange cat is harder than having other colors.

Anastasiia Voloshko / Getty Images

Orange cats are no different from other cats in terms of temperament, and anecdotes that say they are are largely a combination of other factors as well as confirmation bias. While being orange doesn’t make them crazier than other cats, a few things might, like:

• Age
• Breed
• Training
• Environment

Younger cats with less training and life experience often misbehave and act “crazier than older, more stable cats. Not that Benedict is any indication of that, since he tried to fight his sister for just being next to him…

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Finding pet furniture that blends seamlessly with your own isn’t always an easy task. And while some pieces seem to find you before you go looking for them, there’s one piece of furniture worth exploring that is taking home decor to a whole new level: the Fable Signature Crate.

Named one of The New York Times’ 2025 Wirecutter best picks, this sleek and stylish pet crate doubles as an elegant, rustic side table while providing an extra-cozy cave for your pet to retreat to. Currently on sale for Labor Day weekend, you can snag it for 20 percent off and instantly elevate your home and your pet’s world in one fell swoop.

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Sporting a high-quality design crafted from brentwood, the Fable Signature Crate mimics a natural den, giving your pet a cozy, enclosed space to retreat while seamlessly fitting into your home. Normally priced at $800, its high price tag might be a natural deterrent, but once you get into its thoughtful features and ability to elevate any room, it becomes abundantly clear that its worth every penny.

Available in two finishes: Signature (natural) and Walnut, the crate comes in small, medium and large sizes, with acrylic gate, white gate and no-gate options to choose from. Complete with a unique side-wall design featuring square-shaped holes to optimize air flow, it serves as a cozy home base for your dog while providing a sturdy, spacious tabletop that works perfectly as an end table.

Related: T.J. Maxx’s $20 Calico Cat Pet Bed Is the Cutest Little Oasis

“Best crate hands down,” one shopper raved in a review online, sharing that they purchased two for their “mini Aussies,” a small for their 12 pound pup and a medium for their 20 pound pup. “If you are on the fence about spending the money, I would go for it,” they urged shoppers, adding, “I promise you won’t regret it!”

Another fan echoed the praise, calling it an “absolutely great crating system” that’s “easy to assemble” and was an immediate hit in their household.

When it comes to furniture, it’s rare to find a dog crate and side table in one that can match the beautiful design of this Fable piece. Not only does it balance airflow and light to create a serene, den-like environment for your pet to retreat to after a long day, it also gives you a functional surface that can hold everything from books and framed photos to coffee mugs, lamps and more.

Snag one while the price is right, place it next to your couch or bed and watch as your furball instantly claims it as their own. Whether it’s for your own pet or a gift for a loved one, it’s sure to be a welcome addition to any pet home. While you’re at it, check out Fable’s The Puffin Game, a genius mealtime essential that’s perfect for fast eaters.

Related: This Couple Spent Nearly $2 Million Transforming Their Home for Their Dog

Parade Pets aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

As we get ready to transition to fall, there’s still plenty of time to elevate your outdoor space and welcome more of nature’s bright, colorful charm. And if you’re an animal lover, one of the easiest ways to do just that is with functional garden accents like bird feeders, which can attract beautiful visitors to your home while giving you something enjoyable to watch.

That’s where Target comes in with a whimsical new arrival: the Etokfoks 3-Pack Hanging Hummingbird Feeders. Retailing for just $35.99 and designed to either hang together or separately around the yard, this charming home upgrade is the perfect way to give feathered visitors a place to rest, refuel and prepare for their eventual migration south.

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Target

New to Target and waiting for you to bring it home, the Etokfoks 3-Pack Hanging Hummingbird Feeders feature a practical design that easily blends into any outdoor setting. At $36 for the 3-piece set, you have plenty of creative freedom with how you put them to use, whether you string all three together for a multi-level feeding experience or create separate feeding stations around the yard.

Complete with glass bowls, a sturdy circular metal frame and a vibrant red colorway, this set is designed to catch the attention of hummingbirds cruising by your yard while making it easy for them to swoop in for a drink. Each piece comes with its own nectar container, featuring a clear bottom and transparent red top with four feeding holes designed to let birds easily reach the nectar. 

Related: Target’s Realistic Cactus Hummingbird Feeder Is a Whimsical Garden Upgrade

Target

So how does it work? When strung together, you can simply hang the feeders from their included hanging hook on any secure spot, such as a garden stake, tree branch or fence post. To fill the containers, you simply unscrew the red lid and pour the nectar inside, then close the lid back up and watch as the birds fly in for a closer inspection.

Best of all, this set is built to withstand the elements no matter the season, making it a reliable choice whether you’re up north, down south or somewhere in between. With an overall height of 7.68 inches, length of 5.91 inches and width of 2.36 inches, the set is also super compact while still being visually impactful. And to make things even easier, there’s minimal assembly required, so you can confidently set it up yourself or gift it to a friend without committing them to a full-blown project.

Snatch this 3-pack up before everyone else gets the same idea, and while you’re there, check out Target’s Halloween cat condo and haunted cat house scratcher for something your furball can enjoy while you sit back and watch the birds.

Related: T.J. Maxx’s $20 Calico Cat Pet Bed Is the Cutest Little Oasis

All dogs deserve the chance to experience a loving home with caring humans, especially all those who’ve endured more trauma and heartbreak than we may ever know. Back in May 2026, the Beagle Freedom Project rescued more than 1,500 lab Beagles from a Wisconsin breeding facility. One of those sweet pups, Elroy, is healing with the love and patience of a foster home, and he’s making so much progress (you might want to grab the tissues for this one):

Watching him become a little braver every day has been the sweetest thing 🥹

Thanks to his foster mom (via @hera_malinois), Elroy found a soft place to land, but learning to trust humans again has been a slow process. Over the last few months, the fearful, shut-down Beagle who Mom describes as “resilient” has been taking small steps to find his place in the big, scary world, and so far, he’s doing amazing.

“Watching him become a little braver every day has been the sweetest thing,” she captioned the post, and it’s clear Elroy is trying his best to take this second chance at life and make something of it—in his own time.

Related: Beagle and Kitten’s Growing Love Story Is Truly One for the Ages

In multiple other posts, Elroy’s mom noted that even with her foster experience, nothing prepared her for a dog like him. She worried she couldn’t be all he needed and that she might fail him. But then something wonderful started to happen.

“Slowly… like REALLY slowly… Elroy started proving me wrong,” she wrote. “This journey has made me question myself and whether I was meant to foster more times than I can count. But Elroy reminded me why I started.”

To better understand just how far Elroy has come, here’s a look at the sweet Beagle during his early days of freedom:

If you’re fostering or considering adopting a fearful, shut down dog, please remember this: They don’t always show you who they are right away. Sometimes you have to wait. And wait. And celebrate the tiniest things that other people might not even notice. Elroy has reminded us that you can’t rush trust. You can only watch it grow. And sometimes, the dog you thought might never change is simply a dog you haven’t gotten to know yet. 🤍

It’s unfortunate and heartbreaking to think of all the good boys and girls being subjected to lab testing, but thanks to the diligent efforts of advocates and rescues, many of these Beagles are well on their way to healing.

The Beagle Freedom Project has helped many Beagles like Elroy find foster homes where they’re learning what it means to be more than a test subject. As the #1 dog breed for families with children, these Beagles will, no doubt, become the best companion to families willing to be the hero they need.

If you can’t foster or adopt, you can still help former lab dogs like Elroy by donating to rescue Beagles’ care. They all deserve a happy ending.

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I think everyone agrees that puppies are completely irresistible. From their cloud-like fluffy fur and perfectly round bellies to their oversized paws and insatiable curiosity, puppies charm everyone who crosses their path. Some pups pack extra cute when they have an especially full-figured physique, like a little roly-poly plush toy.

Buttercup is a 6-week-old Golden Retriever puppy who is definitely more voluptuous than her littermates, making her all the more adorable.

Buttercup update: still chonk. still perfect. Our girl was the biggest of Maizey’s girls + the first to officially join the 3 lb club… and now look at her at SIX WEEKS OLD. The fluff. The rolls. The personality. We simply cannot handle her. Who remembers baby Buttercup?! #chonk #goldenretrieverpuppy #fluffball

In the TikTok from @goldnmnv, Buttercup stared into the camera looking gorgeous as always. Her velvety, floofy fur shrouded her sweet little face, giving her a sort of stuffed animal look. Buttercup’s tongue was sticking out in full fur baby mode, and her floppy ears completed the perfect puppy picture.

“That’s our big chonk, Buttercup,” the pup’s mom explained. “She’s always giving the side eye. You know we’re talking about you, chonk?”

Buttercup demonstrated that adorable side-eye look and gave her mom a bit of a stare down. She could tell she was the topic of discussion but didn’t seem to mind. Buttercup’s mom posted some details on the precious puppy.

“Buttercup update: still chonk, still perfect,” the caption shared. “Our girl was the biggest of Maizey’s girls and the first to officially join the 3-pound club… and now look at her at SIX WEEKS OLD. The fluff. The rolls. The personality. We simply cannot handle her.”

Followers fell head over heels for Buttercup and thought she wore her full figure well:

• “She is cuddle-sized!!” one raved.
• “She’s not chunky! She’s just got a lot of floof. Honestly as her pawturny she requires more treats and pets,” another joked.
• “I’m convinced a snuggle with that cuddle puddle would solve so many problems for me,” a follower shared.
• “She’s a chunk of muffin!!” someone remarked, prompting Buttercup’s mom to reply, “A whole chunky muffin! Buttercup is wearing that title with pride!”

A puppy’s weight in their first few months of life often depends on their heritage. A male puppy usually takes after their father, and a female tends to develop like their mother. A puppy’s size compared to their littermates can also determine how big they will be at adulthood.

Golden Retriever puppies steadily gain weight as they grow and tend to fall into certain weight categories, with females weighing a little less:

• 0-4 weeks: Less than 5 pounds.
• 8-12 weeks: 10 to 22 pounds.
• 4-6 months: 30 to 44 pounds.
• 7-12 months: 48 to 68 pounds.

Related: 8 Golden Retriever Puppies Go to the Vet and the Cutest Chaos Results

Golden Retrievers reach full growth at approximately 24 months and tip the scales between 65 to 80 pounds. Buttercup will probably be on the higher end of this range and totally rock it.

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Great Danes are one of the largest dog breeds out there. If you have one and still somehow have room for another dog, I’m amazed by you, because I don’t even know where I’d put just one of them. As a small-to-medium dog mom, it just boggles my mind that dogs like this even exist.

Recently, one Great Dane got a new brother. His mom decided one dog was not enough, as we all do, and then decided on a Dachshund. There’s one thing that really makes this stand out, though: the Great Dane is so big that the Dachshund puppy legitimately looks like a little ant:

Why is there a mouse in my house? #dogs #dog #puppies #dachshund #animal

The Cotswolds Family made a very interesting choice here, but I love it. The Dachshund puppy just arrived in her new home in this video: she’s about 10 weeks old, and her name is Bemby. The video is a little bit of a throwback, but to be honest, she hasn’t gotten much bigger.

Bemby was not afraid of Axel, the Great Dane, at all. She was immediately running around him, trying to get him to play, and she never stopped. If a Great Dane and a Dachshund aren’t enough, they also have a Poodle, chickens, and other animals, too. I’m simultaneously jealous and exhausted on their behalf.

Related: Rare ‘Great Dane Doodle’ Looks Like a Cuddly, Curly Giant

Bemby is just so tiny. She’s always supervised when she’s playing with Axel, but it’s almost impossible to understand how little she is. When they caught a video of her perched on his leg like a little parrot, you could really see how big he was:

Little parrot friend forever ♥️ #dog #dogs #puppies #dachshund #animal

This is crazy. I love it, and Axel is a very gentle boy, but I just know that I would get so scared when they were playing together. I get scared when my dogs play together, and they’re all the same size!

If you’re thinking of getting a dog who’s significantly different in size from another dog or even a cat in your home, you should be careful, but it’s certainly possible. Just look at Bemby and Axel: the two of them are totally best friends!

Jennifer Blount / Getty Images

Safety is key when you have dogs of different sizes. Often, the bigger pup doesn’t really know their own strength, and things like over-excitement or a sudden scare can be catastrophic. If you’re in this situation, you should:

• Make sure the larger dog is very well trained.
• Supervise them whenever they’re interacting.
• Always correct behaviors: if the smaller dog provokes the bigger one, they may accidentally lash out and hurt them.

It’s definitely possible to house them safely together. Luckily for Bemby and Axel’s mom, they would never consider hurting each other!

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My dad always says, “Good things come in small packages.”

He said this to my sister, who is 5 feet tall on her best day, but this logic also applies to cats, especially an adorable cat named Meemers.

Meemers, a Black Cat, has a rare inherited genetic syndrome called short spine syndrome, or SSS, which causes the vertebrae to develop abnormally.

Though this SSS cat may be only 7.5 inches long, she has so much love to give, and people can’t get enough of her!

From her shoulders to the base of her tail, Meemers is only about seven-and-a-half inches long, her owner Katie Dahlen tells . But she’s got a whole lot of love to give! “She was actually left at the shelter in a box outside,” owner Katie Dahlen told of the shelter at which she was working at the time. “Literally, from the day she came in, I was like, ‘She needs to come home with me.’” ❤️ 🎥: shortspine_meemers / Instagram

One person commented, “Meemeers, you are beautiful.”

Another said, “What a beautiful kitty.”

She is just a petite bundle of pure joy!

Related: This Black Persian Cat’s Gentle Dinner Request Is Almost Too Charming

So what is short spine syndrome in cats, and how common is it?

Short spine syndrome in cats, or SSS, is a rare and inherited condition that impacts the vertebrae of stump-tailed or tailless cats, according to Catster.

SSS is the same genetic mutation that makes a Manx cat’s tail shorter than a normal kitty’s.

In addition to having a compressed spine, SSS cats can also have problems with their back legs, including paralysis, incontinence issues, and a lack of perianal and urethral sensation.

As you can imagine, depending on the severity of the condition and the issues that come with it, this can be a very difficult life for a kitty and impact their quality of life significantly.

There’s no cure for short spine syndrome cats, so it really comes down to ensuring these animals have proper hygiene, bladder control, and movement support, as well as dedicated veterinary care to make their lives better.

Meemers looks like her quality of life is quite good.

Considering she was left at a shelter in a box when her now-mom, Katie Dahlen, adopted her, she’s one lucky cat.

All 7.5 inches of her!

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I’ve always had a soft spot for rescue animals who discover something simple and wonderful after a life that hasn’t been very kind to them. Watching Dolly, the Cockatoo, outside in the sunshine with her little sweater and bare chicken legs absolutely got me.

Dolly is missing a lot of feathers, so she already has a look that makes you want to scoop her up and protect her from everything. But this outing isn’t really about what she’s missing.

It’s about what she’s gaining.

Her human, who saved her, took her outside for a couple of hours, and Dolly apparently loved nearly every second of it. Sunshine? Huge fan. Fresh air? Absolutely. Grass touching those naked little legs?

Hard no.

The little sweater somehow makes the whole scene even more tender. Dolly looks like she’s dressed for a very important garden appointment, only to discover nobody warned her that the ground itself would be touching her feet.

I laughed watching her carefully negotiate that part. Even after everything she’s been through, Dolly is beginning to have preferences, and that may be the sweetest part of this whole story.

Her human says Dolly has also started talking more. Her voice is still quiet and shy, but hearing her use it is a big deal considering what another post revealed about her past.

Dolly spent decades experiencing neglect and mistreatment. When she first arrived, she was extremely compliant, allowing her caregiver to do nearly anything without protest. Her human believes some of that wasn’t simply sweetness. Dolly had learned that resisting didn’t change what happened to her.

That makes every tiny opinion feel enormous.

Her caregiver has even said she looks forward to the day Dolly becomes a little naughty: saying no, pushing boundaries, and acting like the wonderfully dramatic Cockatoo she was always supposed to be.

I love that way of looking at healing.

One commenter from Australia described seeing huge groups of wild Cockatoos flying overhead every day and said Dolly’s story managed to break and warm their heart simultaneously. I understand that completely.

Seeing her bare legs is hard. Hearing that tiny voice is not.

That voice means Dolly has something to say.

And finally, she’s learning that somebody wants to hear it.

Outdoor time can offer Parrots fresh air, natural sunshine, and new things to see, but it needs to be done safely. Lafeber’s guidance on taking companion birds outside recommends preventing accidental flyaways and making sure birds have access to shade and water.

If your bird enjoys some sunshine:

• Make escape impossible. Use a secure outdoor cage, carrier, or properly fitted bird harness.
• Provide shade and water. Your bird should always have somewhere to get out of direct sunlight.
• Follow their comfort levels. If they seem overwhelmed, overheated, or simply done, head back inside.

For Dolly, even disliking the grass feels like progress.

Keep talking, little girl. We’re listening.

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Related: Cockatoo Nabs Mom’s Makeup Brush and Treats Himself Like the King He Is

The biggest problem with cat trees is often the same one: your cat loves them, while you wish they looked a little less like pet furniture.

Often, cat trees look like they belong in a garage. This stylish one at Costco belongs in your living room. Instead of carpet-wrapped tubs and cheap fleece platforms, this tree was designed for cats and their parents, too.

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At 64 inches tall, the Catry Cohos Cat Tree provides your cats with plenty of vertical territory. But the best feature is on the top: a high-back sofa perch where your cat can lounge, observe the room, and feel like they are on top of the world.

It really gives your cat a palace and a throne. With a neutral gray finish and a structured shape, the tree can work in almost any living room. Instead of making the space feel like a cat’s playroom, it blends in with the interior design.

Related: Costco’s New Pet Bed Is Stylish, Durable and Purrfect for Cats

Vertical space is the most valuable real estate for cats. A cat tree gives them somewhere to climb, rest, and observe the room from above. The high perch of the Catry Cohos Cat Tree is even more appealing in a busy household. Your cats can rest on their own and watch what is happening below.

Beside the high-back sofa, the tree has elevated levels. The setup also includes a 14-inch scratching post, a cozy condo and a washable bed.

Cat trees work best against a wall in the main living area. Cats love being part of a busy household. They want to nap, lie around and observe everything happening around them.

The neutral design blends with most home decor and wouldn’t look out of place even next to a floor lamp or a side table.

Related: Target’s Modern Cat Tree Is So ‘Aesthetically Pleasing,’ Shoppers Say They Bought It Twice

Finding the right home can change a pet’s whole life. Being with a family who loves you with all your weird quirks and silly antics can allow your true personality to come out, especially if your needs weren’t fully understood or met before. Sometimes, all it takes is a family who wants to meet their pet where they’re at and love them for exactly who they are. 

In this video, we meet a Ragdoll cat who has been misunderstood his whole life until he finally found his forever home. Now, he’s with people who fully love him. And all that love he now has shows up in the most magical ways. Take a look!

You won’t find a friendlier, more loving cat. It’s funny what a loving home can do… #ragdollcat #catrescue #lifewithcats #catmum #petcommunity

Shared on TikTok by user @sixdogsoneolivia, we meet a very magical but “aggressive” Ragdoll cat named Blue, who transformed once he found people who really loved him and allowed his true personality to shine through. 

Look at that magical tail… how tall and fluffy it is, signaling a very happy, content Ragdoll who has finally found where he belongs. Blue used to be called “aggressive,” but in his forever home, he’s now a very friendly, loving cat.

Related: Ragdoll Cat and Dad Team up for the Sweetest Butterfly Rescue Mission

In the comments, people showered this little dude with even more love and affection, which goes a long way.

One person wrote, “Aggressive??? Aggressively serving looks… yes sir.”

Another shared, “That’s a beautiful little creamy coffee cat.”

Someone else added, “Their loss is your gain. Stunning Sir!”

Other comments included, “Those people don’t understand cats,” “He looks sophisticated,” “He’s absolutely awesome,” “Gorgeous,” “What a beautiful boy,” and “Aggressively cute.”

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Blue is the happiest, friendliest kitty now that he’s with a family who seems to be able to care for him, and that’s such a wonderful thing. If you’re welcoming a new cat into your life, having some tips handy to help make that transition as calm as possible will benefit everyone in the family. 

According to Paws.org, adjusting to a new home can be really stressful and tense for cats, and having understanding and patience while they acclimate is really important. They explain that when you bring your new kitty home, the best first step is to set up a space just for them with everything they need. That helps them get used to the new sounds and smells. 

Don’t overwhelm your cat with attention, Paws.org explains. The site also adds that it’s important to spend time with your kitty so they can get used to you, too, just like the house, but to always do that on your pet’s terms.

Slow and steady is going to win this race, and you’ll have the happiest, cuddliest cat you get to call a part of your family.  

Every once in a while, I see a dog breed I’ve somehow managed to miss, and suddenly I need to know everything about it. That’s exactly what happened when I saw Swindle, an absolutely adorable Swedish Vallhund puppy who looks a little bit like someone combined a German Shepherd with a Corgi and then shrunk the whole situation.

Swindle doesn’t even have to do much to win you over. In the clip, she’s simply sitting in the aisle of a pet supply store when she lifts one tiny paw and gives the sweetest little wave. As if that weren’t enough, her tongue is sticking out at the same time. I don’t know how anyone is supposed to resist this.

idk why she was sticking her tongue out bruh #swedishvallhund#dogsoftiktok#puppy

The cute clip was shared by the TikTok account @swedishswindle, where people were understandably losing their minds over Swindle.

“I know she’s a Vallhund, but I can’t get over the fact they look like a Shepherd Corgi,” one person commented.

That’s EXACTLY what I see, too.

Related: This Shelter Pup’s Tiny Body and Wiggle Tail Have the Internet Guessing Her Rare Breed Mix

“I’m gonna combust. She’s so stinkin’ cute,” wrote another viewer.

Someone else was apparently ready to make a major life decision after seeing approximately five seconds of Swindle: “I’m so convinced I’m getting one after watching this video.”

“You just introduced me to a whole breed I didn’t even know existed. Now I want one. They’re so cute and small,” another person wrote.

And then there was the viewer who said what everyone else was thinking, just with a little more intensity: “I’m gonna throw up. She’s so fucking cute, dude.”

“She is actually the cutest,” added another.

I see no reason to argue with any of these people.

swindaloo had her first outing in a while. working on her neutrality, she’s too friendly lol #swedishvallhund#dogsoftiktok#puppy#dogtraining

Swedish Vallhunds may look like tiny Shepherd Corgis, but they’re actually an old Swedish breed with a history as working farm dogs and cattle herders.

They’re intelligent, energetic and generally happiest when they have something to do, which is important to know before Swindle’s tiny waving paw convinces you to immediately bring one home.

These dogs need regular exercise and mental stimulation, and their herding background can mean plenty of enthusiasm for activity and keeping track of whatever their family is doing. Training can also be a great outlet for all that intelligence.

For someone looking for an active, clever little companion with a whole lot of personality, though, I can certainly understand the appeal.

Especially when they look like Swindle.

She hasn’t even made it out of the pet store aisle, and she’s already recruited half of TikTok into the Swedish Vallhund fan club.

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Parade Pets aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you’ve been wanting a super comfy chair that you can just sink into when you need a rest — but that your dog will love too — then you should check out this Walmart deal.

The Mainstays by Becky G. & Alejandra Plush Compressed Foam Chair is just $40 at Walmart, and it comes with free shipping. It comes in two color options: Black and Royal Blue.

The ribbed, plush compressed foam chair has a large profile that works great in a bedroom, game room, or living room. It has a cozy and soft 100% polyester cover, and it’s filled with shredded foam for cushioned support while you read, game, or just unwind and cuddle with your pup.

Based on the reviews, this is the perfect plush chair for you and your dog. Multiple people took to the reviews on Walmart’s website to share photos of their cute pups cuddled up and napping in these foam chairs!

“I will probably purchase one more. It is a hit with my dog already,” writes one buyer.

“It’s been great! Our dog has taken control of it though,” writes another person.

Another buyer says their miniature poodle has lots of beds, but “this plush chair is her favorite spot to lie down.” They add: “This plush chair is poodle approved!”

A fourth person raves about it, writing: “My dog and I slept in it last night and woke up feeling better than my mattress.”

Courtesy of Walmart

Walmart recommends giving the chair 24 hours to fully expand once you unpack it, before using it. This is because it comes compressed and needs time to puff out.

The large chair supports up to 225 pounds (that’s enough for you and your dog), and measures 33 inches long by 24 inches wide by 27 inches tall.

About 71% of reviewers give this chair either 4 or 5 out of 5 stars. They love the ease of assembly (just let it expand), soft fabric, and plush cushioning that molds to your body.

Check out some of the reviews:

• “Super comfy! … My dogs have been sleeping on it and scratching at it and it seems very durable.”
• “We love this thing!! Massive, good size for adults or oversized for teen/youth! Thick memory foam material that does not flatten over time.”
• “If you like memory foam, you will love this. Its so comfortable, and you can plump it right back up if it stars to flatten on you.”

The bottom line: the Mainstays Plush Foam Chair is a steal for just $40, considering the size, softness, and comfort you’ll get. If you’ve been looking for a comfy chair to cuddle with your dog in, then you’ll definitely want to check this one out.

Walmart is offering free shipping options with this chair, along with free 90-day returns.

Related: ‘Like Walking on Clouds’: Walmart’s Sporty Sneakers Are Perfect for Dog Walks

Bernedoodle puppies are my weakness. I’ve always been firmly in the “I don’t want a Doodle” camp, but if there’s any Doodle who could make me break, it’s the Bernedoodle. They’re just too cute and sweet, I can’t resist! Luckily, I have too many dogs already.

This new litter of Bernedoodle puppies is really tempting me, though. Just look at them! Their little paws look like they’ve all been covered in cheese, and there’s nothing sweeter than that:

A bundle of fluff, a splash of personality, and a whole lot of puppy charm all in one litter✨💕 #bernedoodle #bernedoodlepuppy #bernedoodlesofinstagram #bernedoodlelove #bernedoodles

Some of the Bernedoodles from Rocky Doodles are a little “cheesier” than others. While a few of them just have a light layer of orange fur near their paws, others look straight-up cheddar-blasted. The lighter puppies in particular seem to have more orange in their coats.

This litter is from a female named Buttercup, who gave birth to 7 stunning pups. They don’t say how many are boys and how many are girls, but we can see that there’s a pretty even mix of Merle Bernedoodle pups and standard ones. Every single one, however, is adorable!

Related: Rare ‘Great Dane Doodle’ Looks Like a Cuddly, Curly Giant

Cheddar-blasted isn’t the only kind of puppy they have right now, though. In addition to that, they have this adorable black-and-white litter. Rather than looking like they got stuck face-down in a bag of Doritos, they look like little fluffy Snoopys:

Good morning puppies! 🐶

I’m a sucker for a dog that looks like Snoopy, as someone who grew up obsessed with him. The first puppy in the video with the dot over his eye would definitely be coming home with me if I could take him!

These cheese-dusted and Snoopy-looking puppies are amazing, but they’re still babies. The fun really starts when they make their way to their forever homes, where they’ll really develop the personalities they’ll carry into the rest of their lives.

Irukandji / Getty Images

When you’re on the hunt for a Bernedoodle, puppy or not, you should always check shelters first: it might not seem like it, but you can often find them there! If that isn’t panning out, do your research: only supporting humane, ethical Doodle breeders is vital. Doodles, as a whole, are overbred.

Once you find the dog you’re looking for, though, they’ll be everything you wanted. They’re:

• Smart
• Silly
• Active
• Trainable
• Good with kids

Rocky Doodles is home to a lot of very cute pups! I hope they all find very loving forever homes. Every dog deserves happiness!

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We’ve all had those days when we crave something specific and go a bit overboard. Whether it’s pizza, chips, cookies, or French fries, it’s hard to stop after a few bites. We never intend to eat more than one piece or serving, but sometimes that yummy taste just takes over.

Apparently, Rascal the orange cat had this experience with these popular cat treats and didn’t feel the need to stop after eating 5 … or 10 … or 15.

No wonder he is so happy rn #cat #catsoftiktok #fyp #rascal #pet

In the TikTok from @camitha.spamitha, Rascal lay in bed looking very calm and relaxed. His eyes were a bit droopy, almost like he just woke up, and he had a very content expression on his face — for a specific reason.

“Woke up to my cat eating 20 Churus,” the on-screen text explained, with the caption adding, “No wonder he’s so happy right now.”

Churus are purée snacks for cats that come in squeezable tubes, which Rascal’s mom keeps in stock at home. The camera panned over the bedroom floor to show numerous Churu wrappers strewn about the room. Rascal had obviously broken into his mom’s stash of the savory treats and decided to help himself to as many as he wanted. While many would feel a bit overstuffed after such an impressive binge, Rascal appeared to feel just fine.

Followers were extremely amused and somewhat impressed by the scene, and posted some comical comments:

• “His face totally says, ‘by the way, we’re out of Churus’,” one joked.
• “Have fun with that litter box later,” another remarked.
• “He said ‘Hey can you clean that up and run to the store for more’,” a follower commented.
• “He’s hungover thinking, ‘whewww, what a night’,” someone pointed out.
• “I’m on his side — he claims you never fed him his dinner that night,” a fan noted.

Rascal’s video racked up over 11 million views, with some people concerned about his condition after his all-out gluttony. The pretty kitty’s mom assured everyone that she took Rascal to the vet, where he received a clean bill of health. She’s monitoring him each day, but reported that he’s doing fine.

“For some reason, the 20 Churus did not impact him,” Rascal’s mom said as she held him on her lap. “The biggest thing that I’ve noticed after his ‘incident’ is that he’s much more affectionate than usual.”

Replying to @Fresh Step Litter Cat Churu Update! 🐈🐈 #cat #catsoftiktok #fyp #rascal #pet

The feline fur baby’s mother took full responsibility for having the Churus within reach and revealed that Rascal had never done this in the six years she’s had him. She isn’t mad or upset with Rascal, though they will be on a break from Churus for a bit.

“He’s on Churu probation for a while,” the feline fur baby’s mom said, “but I will bring them back into our house.”

Related: Orange Cat Escapes for an Outdoor Adventure and Immediately Regrets His Life Choices

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If there’s one thing I want everyone in the world to know about me, it’s that I know more about cats, and that I’ve seen more cat colors than almost anybody I know. It takes a very special cat to get me to really feel something.

A brown Ragdoll cat is going to do it for me every time, though, just like this one. This adorable kitten is everything I’ve ever wanted in a cat and more! You just have to see him:

preying on his sister #fyp #cherubimragdoll #cutecat #catvideo #kitty

Bubba the Brown Ragdoll is one of the best brown Ragdolls I’ve ever seen in my life. He has a tiny bit of white on his chest, which makes him look like a marshmallow that got put under a chocolate fountain or something. He’s only a few months old, but he’s already winning so many hearts!

Bubba got to his forever home early last month. He has a sister there, who he loves antagonizing, and he’s getting really good at hiding behind stuff and jumping out. Kittens are crazy! Being a chocolate-covered kitten certainly doesn’t change that!

Related: Ragdoll Cat Hides Among Stuffed Animals and No One Can Tell the Difference

Bubba’s brown fur is great. Everybody loves chocolate, and therefore, cats who look like chocolate. My favorite part about this kitty, though, is his hairy toes. You can really see them when he’s sleeping on his back:

sleepy boy #fyp #ragdoll #kitten #sleepy #browncat

He’s very furry in general, which is exactly what we like to see from a Ragdoll cat. A healthy, shiny coat is one of the best indicators of a healthy, happy cat!

If you’ve ever heard of Ragdoll cats before, you know they’re typically white, with smaller patches of other colors sometimes. For the most part, though, they look like little snowballs.

Weiquan Lin / Getty Images

Brown Ragdolls are not that kind of Ragdoll. They’re what’s known as Cherubim Ragdolls, which is a TICA-recognized offshoot of the Ragdoll breed. They share the same foundational lines as a standard Ragdoll, but they’re available in colors like:

• Brown
• Grey
• Orange
• Lilac

Their temperament, coat texture, and lifespans are all the same. For this sweet boy, the only thing that’s different about him is that he looks like he’s been covered in chocolate!

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