Parade Pets

A sweet service dog is getting some much-deserved love on social media after a visit to the Epcot Center in Florida.

On January 30, TikTok user Mylee Benoit (@myleebenoitofficial) shared a video of their service dog meeting the two characters on the social platform. Take a look!

My Service Dog met Mickey & Pluto at garden grill in Epcot 🥹 Mickey had to drag in his own dog to show him. #fyp #foryou #disneyworld #epcot #pluto #mickey #foryoupage #thedodo

In a short 46-second video, we see a really adorable interaction between Mickey, Pluto, and a service dog at Epcot.

Related: Precious Service Dog 'Falls Asleep' While Meeting Mickey Mouse

The fun video starts with a service dog sitting under a table at Garden Grill in Epcot. Walking by was Mickey Mouse, who spotted the dog and stopped to say hello.

"Notices my service dog under the table," the text on the screen reads. Respectfully keeping his distance, Mickey waves at the dog and asks his mom if it's okay for him to approach the dog and pet him.

After getting the OK, Mickey reaches out his finger to allow the dog to give a smell.

Then Mickey had a great idea to go and get his dog, Pluto. Happily, Pluto was in the same restaurant greeting other guests, but Mickey called him over to introduce him to the hard-working service dog.

The interaction between the three is really cute and respectful, but it's hard not to smile at the whole video clip. 

"My Service Dog met Mickey & Pluto at Garden Grill in Epcot," the video's caption reads. "Mickey had to drag in his own dog to show him." And the comments were filled with people who loved watching them all together. 

"Mickey asking permission first," one person pointed out.

"Everyone obsessed with the interaction; meanwhile, I’m here for the DOG CROCS," someone else added. 

"Your dog's little ears!! So precious," another shared. 

It's hard to ignore the instinct to pet a dog the second you see one, but there are some important rules we need to follow regarding service dogs. They're technically working, and in order to help keep their humans safe, they need to be able to maintain focus. 

According to Guide Dogs of America, everyone should follow some best practices when they're near a service dog. 

"The service dog and handler are an equal team. Even so, if you want to speak or communicate with them, approach the owner first," the organization shares. "Give the dog space. Depending on the disability, the handler’s life could depend on the dog staying focused on her job. And, it’s hard to concentrate on keeping your handler safe when a person is making weird sounds, waving or standing in the way."

They also explain that you should always ask permission to approach a service dog, including getting any pets. "Like all dogs, service dogs love pats and scratches. Who wouldn’t? However, this distraction might prevent him from caring for his handler," they explain.

Some other best practices include not feeding a service dog and keeping your dogs away from them as well. 

We're so glad to see that Mickey Mouse was adorably respectful and equally excited to show Pluto.

In the age of easily accessible, everyone wants to record their marriage proposals. It's a huge moment that we want to remember forever, and that's why we always want to try and capture it. 

On Monday, January 29th, one couple definitely got a proposal video they're going to remember forever:

Missed the whole kneeling part. Dont worry, she wasn’t mad! #fyp #foryoupage #racoon #ifeltsobad #ifailed #proposal #capturethemoment

Mary Dawson is the kind of bestie I need. Mary is the kind of bestie I am. 

Related: Pet Raccoon Playing With Bubbles Is Too Happy for Words

She's been tasked with something thousands of besties are tasked with every year: hiding and recording the big moment when one person proposes to their partner. Most of the time, this goes off without a hitch: they get their video, and then your bestie is there to celebrate. Zero raccoons in sight.

Not this time. By the time Mary is done being distracted by the raccoon, she pans back to see that the moment is over. It was a yes, and according to her, neither of them were mad. TikTok users are conflicted in her comments; some people say they'd be mad that she missed the moment, while others say this would be the best proposal memory ever. I'm in the second group: a hilarious video and something to tease your best friend about forever? Sign me up!

Regardless of how adorable this is, it never would have happened if the raccoon hadn't been there. It looked like he was just sneaking through on his way to his next stop. The fence around their yard is chainlink, which is easy for a raccoon to climb: their hands and feet can grab onto things that other animals can't. Raccoons are usually attracted to a few things in your yard:

1. A garden full of fresh, sweet-smelling produce.
2. Trash cans with open lids and garbage bags inside.
3. Food left out for cats or dogs on the ground.
4. Cans, bottles, or wrappers left on the ground. 

If you live in a heavily wooded area, odds are, you're going to see a raccoon, and there's nothing you can do. In some places, they're even considered an invasive species! However, if you want to keep them moving and not coming in to tear up your garden and trash your lawn, you should keep everything as clean as possible. Additionally, don't leave any place where a raccoon could potentially make a home: overturned pools, lawn furniture, and boxes all make great nests. 

Mary's friends are not mad that this little guy distracted their videographer, and I think that's great. Maybe they can get him to be the ring bearer?

There's nothing funnier than a sassy cat. They have such huge personalities, it's easy to forget they're our pets sometimes and not, say, our roommates or something. 

One grumpy cat on TikTok has people cracking up, as this hilarious video shared by Daily Mail reveals her taking it upon herself to shut off her mom's annoying alarm clock. And, well, it's absolutely hilarious. See for yourself:

Sorry I'm late, boss. My cat turned off my alarm. 🥲 #cattok #funnycat #alarm #iphone #fyp #viral #cattricks #cute #wholesomememe

I've seen cats do some funny, strange, downright cruel things to their humans plenty of times, but this is just too funny. Plus, she is so unimpressed by her mom's laughter, which obviously makes it that much funnier. The best part is... she actually succeeds at turning it off! I honestly did not see that coming. 

Related: Indoor Cat's Funny Way of Begging to Get Outside Has People Delighted

Now, seeing this makes me wonder—does this happen all the time? Was this the last straw? Is this silly cat finally putting her paw down and declaring, "Enough is enough!" That, I do not know. But probably. Ha! 

While it can be difficult to know for sure if your cat has a noise phobia, nevertheless, it can have a serious impact on your feline friend's wellbeing.

Cats associate loud noise with danger, which is why they have a natural aversion to sudden bangs and booms, or in this case, beeps. 

And while it’s normal for cats to dislike noise to a certain extent, some cats can be so scared of noises that they actually develop heightened sensitivity to sound. 

They can be scared of a wide range of noises, too, including doorbells, fireworks (obviously), household appliances, lawnmowers, slamming doors, thunder... and the list goes on. 

Noise phobia is a problem that can stem from an early age as well. If cats aren't exposed to the everyday sounds of people and other animals early on, it’s far more likely that they will grow up to be fearful of them. 

For example, a kitten who has been raised in a fairly noisy, bustling home will be less likely to develop a noise phobia than one that has been raised in a quiet environment.

One behavioral trait to keep in mind is that when a cat has noise phobia, they tend to disappear, so their parent may not know that they are frightened. Other cats might show displacement, like anxiously licking themselves. 

As pet parents, we might just assume that our furry friend is simply engaged in grooming when actually the licking is an act of self-comfort. If you’re not sure whether your cat’s licking is a cause for concern, keep an eye on them to see whether they do it in response to certain triggers, such as the TV being turned on or you using the vacuum cleaner.

If you suspect that your cat is suffering from a noise phobia, one thing you can do is ask your vet for a referral to a qualified pet behaviorist, who will be able to assess the situation and advise you on the best course of action for your cat. 

It makes me wonder if this sassy little grump was scared or annoyed, but really, I think we all know the answer. She just didn't want to wake up. And hey, I respect her for having a plan and executing it soundly! Same time tomorrow.

I talk a lot about folks being in the right place at the right time, but one police officer in Fort Wayne, Indiana, undeniably was in this potentially devastating situation. 

In a bone-chilling video shared by Sky News on TikTok, one heroic officer recently saved two Labradors who were trapped (and close to freezing) in an icy pond in Indiana, and his timing truly couldn't have been better. Take a look:

🐶 A police officer has saved two labradors after they became trapped in an icy pond in Indiana, US. Officer Hullinger hoisted each dog out of the cold water and to safety. The dogs have been turned over to Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control 'with hopes of reuniting the dogs with their owner or finding them a new home,' police said. 🔗 Tap the link in bio for more #Dog #Rescue #Labrador #Indiana #Police

These poor pups were clearly frozen in fear, hanging on for dear life when the officer, Trent Hullinger, approached them. His body cam footage reveals the rescue and you can see the dogs' demeanor change from fearful to borderline playful almost immediately after they were safely back on land. Dogs are seriously the best. 

Related: Labrador Puppy Discovering a Ball for the First Time Is the Picture of Innocence

"Officer Hullinger was able to grab each dog and pull them to safety," Fort Wayne PD wrote on YouTube. "The friendly Labs were turned over to Fort Wayne Animal Care & Control with hopes of reuniting the dogs with their owner or finding them a new home."

Maybe you've seen a dog or cat running loose on a busy street and feared for its safety? You may have tried to get it out of harm’s way, or you may have wanted to but weren’t sure what to do? It's okay. We've all been there.  

Either way, there are some universal tips out there that are certainly worth knowing, especially if and when you find yourself in a similar situation. 

First off, you never want to put yourself in harm’s way by attempting to capture an animal that is behaving aggressively. If you can't safely approach the animal or if it runs away, call your local animal control or police department immediately. 

In some situations, I understand that time might not be on your side, though. So if circumstances permit, you can try to capture and contain the animal yourself, but you need to be extremely careful and really feel out the situation first.

Always approach stray animals slowly and cautiously while speaking in a calm, gentle voice, and keep in mind—results will vary. But if you can, it's a timely solution, to say the least. 

If the animal has no ID tag or microchip, its best chance of being reunited with its family is generally at an animal shelter. Plus, the shelter is the one obvious place where people are likely to look for lost pets. 

While most shelters maintain a database of “found” reports, they're often inaccurate (typically due to the person describing the animal). Most people don't know breed names and coat colors, which is totally fair. 

An alternative might be to post a picture of the animal in the shelter’s database, if the shelter has software with that capability, of course. If not, try posting it on your social media (or local social media accounts, newspapers, etc.) to help spread the word. 

Situations like we see in this video are pretty dire and specific, though, so keeping these tips in mind can be truly life-saving. Had Officer Hullinger not received that call, who knows what would've happened? 

The point is these pups are safe and sound now, and my fingers are crossed that they get reunited with their family as soon as possible. 

A dog is needing to find her forever home and the U.S. Coast Guard is doing all they can to help.

On January 26, 2024, CBS News shared the story of a dog in Wisconsin who is looking for her humans. Here's what happened.

The Kenosha Coast Guard rescued a dog from the icy waters of the harbor. Now, they're trying to find her furever home! #Kenosha #Wisconsin #Milwaukee #dog #Rescue #CoastGuard #ice #LakeMichigan

According to reports, the U.S. Coast Guard is looking for someone on behalf of a dog who went through a terrible ordeal.

Related: Woman Finds Lost Dog in Frankfurt Airport and the Story Has Everyone Invested

On January 25, members of the Coast Guard in Kenosha Harbor, Wisconsin, rescued a dog who was in the icy waters.

"Today, at approximately 1:40 p.m., Petty Officer Liam Bartram of Coast Guard Station Kenosha saw a dog fall off the pier near the Great Lakes Yacht Club in Kenosha Harbor," the organization shared in a press release.

"Sounding the alarm, Station Kenosha’s ice rescue team immediately donned their personal protective equipment and assembled their ice rescue gear while Senior Chief Petty Officer Christopher Skala, Station Kenosha’s Officer-in-Charge, and Petty Officer Andrew Brewster rushed over to the pier."

On TikTok, TMJ4 News gave a little more context as to what happened. "She had fallen off of one of these piers and was treading water for about 15 minutes, stuck between one of these large floating pieces of ice, before her friends from the Coast Guard came to the rescue," the news report explained.

"The temperatures, it doesn't take long for, sadly, something to happen, being in that cold of water," the report continued. 

“She was struggling to swim between the ice floes in the harbor and couldn’t climb onto any of them,” Senior Chief Petty Officer Skala said. “She was in the water about 15 minutes before she was able to make it close enough for us to grab her.”

Senior Chief Skala pulled the dog safely out of the ice-filled water and onto the pier, leaning over the edge and stretching out as far as possible, with Petty Officer Brewster anchoring his legs to the pier.

Officer Brewster pulled the dog out of the icy water and back onto the pier, where they wrapped the dog in a warming blanket, checked for injuries, and took it to the Kenosha Humane Society.

"Frozen lakes, ponds, and other bodies of water pose many dangerous hazards for you and your dog," the Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota says.

"Falling through ice can cause hypothermia, organ damage, or drowning," the rescue center continues. Beyond that, dogs can also get injuries from the ice, including cuts or burns and frostbite.

They recommend that whenever you go out with your dog near water, they never leave them unsupervised and ideally use a tie-out leash to keep your dog from going onto the ice or in the air.

"Avoid areas of the ice that indicate it’s unsafe. Signs to look for include dark, slushy, cracked, or seamed ice," the rescue center suggests. "Partially submerged items such as a tree branch also mean the surrounding ice is dangerous."

Lilybrush reminds dog parents that jumping into the water after their dog is unsafe, saying it "should never be the first course of action." And doing so "will endanger yourself, your dog, and others."

The site explains that even if you do get your dog out of the water, there's no promise you'll be able to get out. And if you both do, there won't be anyone there to care for each of you.

They also note that you should not encourage your dog to move or swim.

"While your first instinct will be to get your dog out of the water, it’s important for your dog’s body to regulate its internal temperature," LillyBrush notes. "Moving around too much will decrease that temperature, making it harder for your dog to stay afloat and causing joints and muscles to lock up." Instead, call emergency services.

We're so glad the Coast Guard was able to rescue this sweet pup. Hopefully, she will find her parents or her forever home soon. 

Whales are so smart. They're capable of learning some pretty complex tricks, and they're capable of having fun, too.

One prime example of a smart goofball was posted on Tuesday, January 30th, and she's just amazing:

Certified goofball #mysticaquarium

Mystic Aquarium is so lucky to have this guy. She's hilarious, and definitely not afraid to talk back!

Related: National Geographic Shares Amazing Throwback Video of Belugas 'Adopting' a Narwhal

Mystic Aquarium is located in Mystic, Connecticut, and they have dozens of sea animals. Kela, the Beluga in this video, is a big hit with almost everyone who visits the aquarium, and she's been there since 1981, when she was brought there after being captured in a nearby bay. 

Kela is more than just her goofiness, though. Back in 2005, at the age of 24, Kela was artificially inseminated at the Mystic Aquarium: the first ever artificial insemination of a Beluga. Unfortunately, it didn't take, and Kela has never had a calf, but that's okay: she spends her days swimming around and doing tricks for treats. She also vocalizes a lot: this video shows off some of her happy squeals, though Belugas can also chip, trill, and even growl, in some cases. They're the most talkative whale species!

Because they're so animated, Beluga whales are typically some of the most popular exhibits at aquariums, and that makes them perfect as a face for ocean conservation. These whales are native to the colder, northern waters of the Arctic Ocean. They were commonly hunted in their native regions for their blubber and their meat, which are particularly popular among Indigenous populations. 

Belugas are not technically endangered, though they are a protected species. Today, experts estimate that there are approximately 200,000 Belugas left in the wild, and they're listed as "Near-Threatened." That essentially means that, though they're not at risk of extinction just yet, they could be. Rising amounts of ocean pollution, climate change, and illegal hunting practices all pose significant threats to them.

Since Kela's artificial insemination in 2005, there has only been one successful case of AI, and just 24 of these whales have been born in captivity overall. A big part of conservation is strategic breeding, and without a diverse enough gene pool, it'll be much harder to breed the species in a helpful way. 

Kela is important, and she knows it. After such a long life of making history and doing tricks, she's definitely earned her right to be a goofball!

There are some methods of waking up in the morning that are more preferable than others. A piercing alarm clock? Not so much. A playful parade of Golden Retrievers? You have my attention. 

As we see in this heartwarming video, one dog dad got the ultimate wake-up call as his six Golden Retrievers rushed into his room to remind him it was time to start the day. Have a look: 

Who else would like to be woken up by 6 Golden Retrievers? #goldenretriever #goldenretrieversoftiktok #goldenretrieverlove #goldenretrievers #dogfamily #goldenretrieverlife #dogpack #wakeywakey #stickseason #goodmorning

I can't even imagine how happy I would be to wake up like this every day. This would honestly be a dream come true. And I love that most of them are holding a random item of footwear (sneaker, boot, sandal)—too funny. Having six dogs might seem like a handful. I mean, it probably is. But having six energetic Golden Retrievers around to constantly play with would be a slice of heaven, if you ask me. 

Related: Golden Retriever Gets the Best 'Revenge' on Dad for Throwing Out His Old Toys

All those different personalities; all those little quirks and emotions. I'm just sitting here thinking about how much love my dog gives me. And if you have a dog, then you can obviously relate. But can you imagine how it'd be to receive unlimited, unconditional love from six dogs!? Simply amazing. 

To put it simply, yes, Golden Retrievers can certainly enjoy living with other dogs. They're a friendly, social breed and seem to have an infinite amount of love to give, which makes them relatively easy to get along with other pups. 

So the point is, introducing your Golden Retriever to other dogs can be an exciting experience, especially if you already have pets. 

But as a pet parent, you play an important role in establishing a harmonious relationship between your pets. Fortunately, all you really need is some patience and consistency! 

The introduction should technically go smoothly if your other pets are friendly to other animals. However, it may take a little more time and patience if your other pets are dominant or aggressive. 

It's absolutely vital to remain present during the introduction and correct aggressive behavior either way. But hey, we are talking about Golden Retrievers here. These dogs are great learners! And it’s really not as complicated as it appears. 

If you are planning on adding another pup to the family to accompany your Retriever, one thing to consider is choosing a neutral territory where neither dog feels the need to protect their belongings. 

This helps to avoid any territorial disputes or defensive behavior. It’s best to choose an outdoor location, as well, such as a park or a yard. If you do it inside, just make sure it's somewhere with no items that the dogs may consider their own.

But let's not forget—Golden Retrievers do in fact like living with other dogs. They're great at making new friends and playing with other animals safely and enjoyably (with some practice and careful planning, of course). 

I'm not sure if this playful pack of pups are siblings or just friends, but their energy is infectious and I absolutely love it. For those of you out there who aren't really morning people, consider trying something like this. 

Because if your day starts like this, I have to imagine, it will be the best day ever,  time and time again. 

Dogs and kids go together like peanut butter and jelly. Everyone who's ever dreamed of a family has probably pictured a trusty, furry sidekick right along with it, and it's a classic for a reason. 

The bond between a dog and their human sibling is unlike anything else in this world. Just look at this video from Thursday, January 26th:

His excitement for seeing his sister every morning just warms my heart 🥹🐶 #kidsanddogs #babyanddog #dogsoftiktok #dogtok #toddlerlife

Daphne and Noah are two peas in a pod, and they will be for the rest of forever. There's nothing quite like your childhood dog!

Related: Clever Great Danes Outsmart the Baby Gate Like a Couple of Bosses

In the video, Noah goes to wake up Daphne, his bestie. He does this every morning, and you can tell that she loves it by the way her tail wags before she even actually sees him! Being that she's literally massive, Daphne has her own little couch to sleep on: if they let her in bed, she'd take up the whole thing. But that just means there's a special step in the morning routine: going and waking her.

Noah is a pro: he's not too loud, and he doesn't approach her too aggressively. Even if you have the sweetest little dog in the world, spooking them could result in some unwanted nips. 

As family dogs, Great Danes often get overlooked, and it should be a crime. These German-bred dogs were originally put to work as guards: they'd chase predators away from the family property and accompany humans on boar-hunting trips. They were bred to be loyal, and loyal they are. Even today, long since removed from their original purpose, a Great Dane would absolutely lose its own life to protect a member of its family. 

They're very gentle, too, though they're not always aware of their size and may try to climb into your lap! Generally, most Great Dane lovers swear they don't bite, they rarely bark, and they don't shed too much. If you've got the space for one, a Great Dane is a perfect family pet - and there are tons of them in rescues. 

Unfortunately, Great Danes get a little bit of a bad rap because of their short lifespans. Great Danes are the second largest dog breed in the world (right behind the Irish Wolfhound), and because of that, they typically only live 8-10 years, though a lot of them don't make it past 7. Additionally, they're prone to cancers and hip issues that can make their older years difficult. But if you ask me, any difficulty is totally worth it when you see a bond like Daphne has with Noah!

As pet lovers, we know that all dogs are cute and charming in their own unique way. But some pups literally stop you in your tracks and make you say, "Awwwwwwwwww!" and that is absolutely the case here. 

Good Morning America recently shared a video of Demi Moore's Chihuahua, Pilaf hanging out on set and she absolutely stole the show. It's amazing how something so small can make such a big impact. 

So doggone cute 🥹 Demi Moore’s pup Pilaf stole the show this morning! #demimoore #pilaf #robinroberts #michaelstrahan #goodmorningamerica #dog #dogsoftiktok

I'm just going to say it: Pilaf looks like a toy. When Demi set her down and her little tail started wagging, I almost couldn't believe it. Her little pitter-pattering is unbelievably adorable, I just want to scream, "Watch out!" because she's just so tiny and fragile. But geez, if that isn't the cutest pint-sized-pup I've seen in a while...

Related: Chihuahua Howling Like a Wolf for Attention Is Way Too Cute

I truly can't imagine being as small as Pilaf, either, constantly look up at all the towering humans that surround her. The world is a big place, but in her eyes... yeah, I can't even imagine. You can hear Demi say, "She's 3 years old," at the beginning of the video, too, which means little Pilaf probably won't get much bigger. 

Celebrity pets have been a thing since celebrities have been celebrities, so it's really no surprise that Pilaf is more famous than, well, probably all of us. But hey, in fairness, look who her mom is. 

"I think the truth is, she's the star and I'm the accessory," said Moore on the show. "She's the greatest gift I've ever been given." 

One thing is for certain—little Pilaf is living her best life every single day. She's traveling the world, dressing in snazzy outfits, probably eating delicious food and I have to imagine the attention she receives is endless. I mean, how could you not give her attention?

She obviously loves the camera as well, because it only takes a second or two for her to run straight towards the photographer on set (which is too funny). Some celebrities just have it, you know? 

While some people love small dogs, others don't necessarily prefer them. I get it. To each their own. But whatever side of that debate you're on, it's pretty hard to deny how precious our pal Pilaf is. 

I'll just say it again: we know that all dogs are cute and charming in their own unique way. But some pups literally stop you in your tracks and make you say, "Awwwwwwwwww!" 

And really, there's just nothing else to do. 

If you’ve ever had, or known a Rottweiler, you’re likely familiar with their fun-loving and intelligent personalities. Although this breed often gets a bad rap, it’s usually the owners, and not the dogs, responsible for their unfortunate reputation. This becomes clear once you’ve experienced all they have to offer.

This little girl, and her well-trained dog, are a shining example of how phenomenal this breed can truly be. Even though she’s only 8 years old, her loyal pooch knows she’s in charge.

Watch her work her pup like an absolute pro in this video from January 29:

A 8 years old little human can work a rottweiler #rottweilersoftiktok #rottweiller #fyp

That's impressive! This little 8-year-old has no trouble managing the dog, who outweighs her considerably. When she asks her loyal companion to stay, he does so immediately. Then, she instructs him to go around her, which he does without hesitation. Finally, she commands him down, and he obliges like the gentleman he is. As with any dog, training with consistency is key to success. Rotties love to please their owners, and with the right instruction, can be the most loyal and well-behaved breed. This adorable girl won’t have to worry about a thing with this handsome boy by her side.

Related: Rottweiler Can’t Get Enough of Small Human Sister After 3 Days Apart

Rottweilers are an intelligent breed, and they need to be trained from the very beginning. Giving them a job can also help to prevent boredom and cultivate the behaviors you wish to see. It’s important to be consistent and clear with the commands you are using. Giving them feedback with a stern no or an enthusiastic good job can also help to encourage the conduct you want to see.

This little girl’s very adult abilities and her well-trained pooch didn't surprise people. One viewer remarked, “My 8-year-old has trained our German Shepherd things I didn’t even know he could do. He showed me all the new tricks when I got home. One was ‘go to mama.’ How did he train him to do that when I wasn’t even there?” Kids and dogs know how to work so well together, and they never cease to amaze us!

The young lady in the video is the perfect example of why it’s important to spend time working with our dogs. If she can do it and achieve these results, with consistency, we can, too.

Just like human children, animals often have favorite belongings. It could be a toy, bed, or blanket. While it may not be surprising to see a dog taking their most prized possession wherever they go, it is more unusual when it’s a cat.

This funny feline’s favorite throw is bigger than she is! However, that doesn’t stop her from taking it everywhere.

See her in action in this video shared on January 14:

She started adding some parkour #cat

Blarn is a very determined Kitty! No matter where she goes, she wants to take her big soft blanket with her. Although she may have a lot of fluff, this throw probably weighs more than she does, or at least it’s pretty close. That doesn’t stop her, though, from dragging it along. It may be big and bulky, but she waddles her way around it. She even knows how to leverage her weight to drag it off the couch. Whatever the challenge may be, this beautiful cat is up for it. Her only resistance might come from her sister Edna, who watches her intently, while she plays with it on the couch. She also appears to enjoy chasing it as she drags it along. Ha! Those with siblings can likely empathize with this situation.

Related: Cat Chooses His 'Emotional Support Pumpkin' for 2023 and It's Too Cute

Yes, they can. Just like humans, they form an emotional attachment to things that bring them comfort. While this cat may have chosen a blanket for security, others might find solace in their favorite toys. These toys or objects can help them feel relaxed, especially during periods when their humans are away. Interacting with them and their favorite things can help foster the bond we have with them as well.

Watching this cat and her special blanket is so entertaining. Viewer @oliverlee517 responded, “Blarn and her blanket have places to go and people to see!” That they do! She’s definitely on a mission with her warm and snuggly throw. Viewer @Chasingdopamine remarked, “Lol, she’s just dusting the floor for you. She told me that’s her chores and she gets allowance in snacks.” That’s an excellent point! Who needs a robot vacuum when you have this kitty to tidy up the house? It’s not only Blarn who has an emotional support throw either as viewer @Nicole reported, “My 14-year-old man kitty drags my blanket around.” How adorable!

Even though we may not understand why cats form attachments to the things they do, we can enjoy watching their happiness. We should all be so fortunate to have someone love us this much.

It was a spa day of sorts for one happy hippo at the San Antonio Zoo as he received a little royal treatment from his favorite human. 

In this adorable video shared on San Antonio Zoo's official TikTok account, we see Timothy the hippo indulging in a relaxing snout massage that sent him straight to cloud nine. Just look at those eyes! 

Timothy the hippo loves snout massages! 💆‍♂️🦛 #animals #cute #cuteanimals #fyp #foryou #hippo

The fact that Timothy looks genuinely relieved as he's receiving this massage warms my heart. This gentle giant is in a pure state of bliss. And while I understand hippos sometimes get a bad rap for being a little more aggressive in the wild, Timothy is simply a lover. And he deserves all the snout massages he can get! 

Related: Hippo Getting His Teeth Brushed in the Morning Is Full of Surprises

That said, a lot of folks in the comments are expressing how lucky Timothy's masseuse is for getting to do this, and they certainly aren't wrong. Not just anyone can get this close to a hippo and gently interact with them. It's almost hard to believe just how dangerous these gentle giants can truly be in their natural habitats. But again, what's important is that Timothy is the exception. Timothy is a gentleman.

If you don't believe me, that's fine. But how do you explain this! Yep, that's right, Timothy was actually named 'Hippo of the Year' by the San Antonio Zoo in December 2023, and this award is not to be taken lightly. I see big things coming for our pal Timothy in the near future. 

The sky's the limit for this fun-loving hippo. 

In all seriousness, Timothy is one of the most beloved animals at the San Antonio Zoo and absolutely deserved this coveted award. Don't quote me, but I think these snout massages are simply part of his contract now. He's kind of a big deal. 

There's no shortage of love for Timothy in the comments, either:

"Aww Timothy the hippo is so adorable... I'd massage his snout anytime!" one woman wrote, tacking on a few playful laughing faces. 

"Cuteness overload," a few other folks added. 

"I'm in love with Timothy!" said another. 

Again, it seems like the majority of the comments are laser-focused on the simple fact that they also want to give Timothy a snout massage, and something tells me Timothy probably wouldn't argue it. But as we mentioned, not just anyone has the pleasure of doing so. 

Personally, I just can't get over how soothing his eyes look. He's like, "Ahhhh...a little to the left...little to the right...keep going, keep going." 

I will admit that I also wish I could interact with Timothy (or any hippo) in an environment like this, but at the same time, I'm happy to watch from afar. Timothy is 'Hippo of the Year' for a reason. They can't all be as calm and gentle as him. And trust me—they aren't. 

Baby goats are one of nature's greatest creations. They're precious and tiny, and then they grow into big, hilarious adults. Goats are some of the most useful animals a farm can have, too: their milk is excellent for artisan goods and cheeses. 

In order to grow into hilarious, valuable members of the farm, goats need to get enough to eat. On Thursday, January 25th, one farm mom showed off how she was stepping in to make sure her newest baby goat gets what it needs:

Breakfast on the farm 🫶🏻 #farmlife #bottlebaby

Knuckle Bump Farms is one of the best farm accounts on TikTok. A more animated, happier herd is going to be really hard to come by!

Related: Baby Goats Doing Parkour in Fresh Cut Grass Are Exercise Masters

According to the Knuckle Bump Farms Instagram page, this little guy is one of nine rescues on the farm, and all of them are just babies. It's unknown whether they're from the same litter/farm or not, but what matters now is that all of them are getting the care they need. All nine of them are bottle fed - what a workload!

Knuckle Bump is just a hobby farm; they don't use their animals for commercial purposes, and they don't offer tours. They have dozens of animals, including goats, donkeys, horses, and a very sassy emu (Emmanuel) that catapulted them to internet stardom. Through their social media success, they've been able to expand the farm and take in more rescues. It's so heartwarming to see someone using their platform for good!

Baby goats may be small, but don't let that fool you: they're a lot of work. Typically, a baby goat breastfeeds for up to 6 months. During this time, farmers will offer other sources of food, and the kid will slowly wean themselves. Just like with human babies, allowing the kid to breastfeed for as long as possible is best, but they can be weaned off sooner if needed. 

Things happen, though, and a baby goat won't always get the chance to breastfeed: that's where bottle feeds come in. A baby goat should be bottle fed a minimum of every 4 hours when they're really little, but as they age, that can be backed off to three times per day, and then twice, once - boom, weaned. This little guy is just an itty bitty baby, so he's probably still taking very frequent bottles, but that's exactly what he needs!

Depending on the situation you're rescuing from, your vet may recommend a certain formula mixture or supplements you should add to the bottle. Even though there's a lot of work to be done in the beginning, it's a small price to pay to know they have a long, healthy life ahead of them!

He might be one of the biggest singer-songwriters in the world, but apparently,  cats don't necessarily love Ed Sheeran as much as his loyal fans. 

In a hilarious video shared by E News , Sheeran attempts to serenade a group of kittens but it doesn't go as planned. It's pretty safe to say they were more interested in food than his catchy lyrics! Take a look! 

EdSheeran's attempt to serenade kittens was a total cat-astrophe. 😭🐈 (🎥: Instagram)

I love that it literally took the first strum of his string for the cats to immediately retreat as if they were hearing nails on a chalkboard. He's a good sport about it, which I respect, but I can't help but laugh a little. Also, I'm glad he reminded us all of his hauntingly similar performance from 2014. Hey, I respect him for trying again. Third time's a charm, right? 

Related: Cat's Boost of Confidence After Watching One Nature Show Is a Full-On Mood

However, there was no controlling my laughter when they cut to that angry white cat that seriously looks irritated beyond belief. He's like, "We were just about to eat? Are we being punished? What's going on?" And that gray cat that just keeps eating is absolutely hilarious. Completely unfazed. He must've really been hungry. 

It's a fair question to ask after seeing a scenario like this unfold. Plus, I know first hand that many cat lovers out there love music. In fact, many of them are musicians themselves. But the question remains—do cats like music?

The easy answer is yes, cats do technically “like” music, but not necessarily in the traditional sense that humans do. They have hearing that is much more advanced than humans, which ultimately means that they can hear sounds of much higher (and lower) frequencies. 

This also means that many popular genres of music, like rock and pop, for example, can be quite harsh on a cat’s ears. As a result, cats are known to prefer “cat specific” music, which is typically music that can evoke feelings of calmness and relaxation.

Another fair question is: does music make cats happy?

It's sort of the same answer. While music isn't likely to evoke feelings of happiness in cats in the same way that it does for humans, certain music composed specifically for cats will, again, likely make them feel calm and relaxed. 

That said, some cats (maybe most?) seem to prefer silence over music anyways. This is especially true if your cat tends to be particularly anxious around loud and surprising sounds. Again, their hearing is so advanced, they're literally hearing an amplified version of everything we do. 

Like all animals, however, your cat will certainly respond differently than another cat when it comes to music and sounds. Maybe they love Iron Maiden? Maybe they're smooth jazz fanatics? Or perhaps they just enjoy the silence. 

Whatever the case, I think there's one thing we learned here that we can all agree on: just don't play them Ed Sheeran. 

Dogs and cats are beloved family members. Most pet parents don’t think of their four-legged kids as a possession or as something they ‘own.’ This is why in Hawaii, there’s a special name for human caretakers.

This distinctive title and what it means perfectly embodies what it’s like to be the guardian of these precious souls. Get a few tissues ready for watching this touching video.

Learn more about this honorable term in this clip shared on January 17:

I think someone’s chopping onions 🥹🥲 #miniaturedachshund #ilovedogs #dachshund #sausagedog #dackel #doxie #fyp #dogs #pups #teckel #dogsoftiktok #puppy #dachshundpuppy #kahu #doglover

This is the most perfect name for anyone with a beloved four-legged child. Sid and Nancy’s parents reveal, “In Hawaiian, you don’t call yourself a pet’s ‘owner’ you are their Kahu.” These adorable Dachshunds have two of these loving caretakers who are giving them the very best life on this magnificent island. This beautiful word has many meanings they tell us, including guardian, protector, steward, and beloved attendant. They describe it refers to, “Someone entrusted with the safekeeping of something precious and cherished. What a Kahu protects is not their property. What they protect is part of their soul.” That is the absolute truth.

Related: Watch: Hawaii Cows' Run with Excitement to Participate in 'Cuddle Therapy'

Everything about this wonderful term so eloquently describes the relationship we have with our cherished family members. According to the Hawaiian dictionary, this word is used to describe any honored attendant, including nurses, pastors, ministers, wardens, or preachers; who have a dog, cat, pig, or other pets. The name, “Implies the most intimate and confidential relations between the God and its guardian or keeper.” In addition, you can use this word in partnership with dozens of others to describe protectors like foster parents (Kahu hānai) or ranchers (Kahu pipi).

People are celebrating this heartwarming title. One viewer responded, “The world would be a better place if we all were a Kahu.” That is a fact, especially with pets, children, and the elderly. Another person, @liamalii, acknowledged, “I believe they are our Kahus, keeping our human spirits safe on this journey together.” That seems plausible as well. Viewer @belle remarked, “Yes! I was studying in the vet tech field and just couldn’t anymore with how they see animals. I never say owner, we are their family/parents/best friends.” They are so much more than any property we could ever own.

Hopefully, people here on the mainland will embrace this lovely word and experience its intended spirit. If we did, it might make the world a more enjoyable place to be.

Brands using animals as mascots for marketing is nothing new. The Target Dog, Chester the Cheetah (Cheetos), Tony the Tiger (Frosted Flakes), and the Aflac Duck are only a few examples of the most popular ones.

Budweiser is no stranger to animal mascots, either. As of Tuesday, January 30th, the beloved beer brand had added yet another Clydesdale into the mix:

KSDK News' explanation of what Warm Springs Ranch is offering on the day of the big game is seriously enticing, I must admit. I'll be too busy looking for Taylor Swift in the box to be playing with horses, but it sounds like a great time!

Related: Woman Cuddling with Baby Clydesdales Is Giving Everyone FOMO

The foal from this video doesn't have a name yet. All we know so far is that he was just recently born, he's a boy, and he's absolutely adorable. Located in Boonville, Missouri (about 100 miles outside of KC), Warm Springs Ranch has been breeding horses for years. The facility is owned by Anheuser-Busch, which is the parent company of Budweiser, and it is specifically used to breed "Budweiser Clydesdales." Though the company has Clydesdales all over the US, most of them live at or at least come from Boonville. Currently, 70 of these majestic horses live there!

When it comes to branding, Budweiser isn't horsing around: they've been using Clydesdales since the early 1930s, shortly after the end of Prohibition in the United States. Six massive horses were given to the owner of the brand, and he used them for what Anheuser-Busch calls "a horse-drawn beer-wagon" that was used to celebrate the end of Prohibition. 

Obviously, horses and beer went over really well with the masses, so the tradition just kind of stuck, and Budweiser has been breeding these horses ever since. You can catch Budweiser Clydesdales in events everywhere: Thanksgiving parades, Memorial Day parades, commercials, and special events hosted by the brand. Additionally, Warm Springs Ranch offers seasonal tours and chances to meet the horses!

I would like the record to show that Anheuser-Busch refers to this piece of their brand as "Horse-Story," and I'm made I didn't think of it first. 

Clydesdales are an easy pick if you're looking to make an impact: they're the second largest horse breed in the world. They're also beautiful: Clydesdales typically have very distinct white and brown coats and long manes that make for amazing braids. 

As KSDK said in their video, this little guy doesn't have a name yet. They'll probably reveal it at their Super Bowl event, and I'll be tuning in to find out!

Living on a farm is a huge undertaking. Not only are you responsible for maintaining a lot more land than the typical person, but you're also committing to care for sometimes dozens of lives. One thing's for sure: you can't do it on your own. 

Most farmers will choose to have a livestock guardian dog. They're not just for heroic scenes in movies! One farmer shared a video showing off just what these dogs are bred to do:

Bri Benton is very lucky she had Thor there to keep those animals safe. Coyotes are no joke! 

Related: Anatolian Shepherd Dog Protects His Herd Like the Guardian He Was Born to Be

Thor is a Great Pyrenees, but on top of that, he's also the best boy. Birthing is tough on any animal, and when a mama sheep gets up to go take a drink of water and have a snack, she trusts him completely - trust that takes years to build. Even though she's not gone for very long, Thor watches her baby like a hawk, only letting up when she gets back.

Bri Benton's farm is on 85 acres of land. On her page, she explains that they haven't fenced all of it in; to do so would cost $20,000 or more, and they plan on moving soon, so they're not interested in making that investment. Realistically, they don't need to: they've got livestock guardian dogs, including Thor and Ginger from this video as well as others, that keep predators at bay.

A livestock guardian dog is a big commitment, and it's a leap every farmer at least considers taking. As silly as it sounds, having a LGD will save you thousands in fencing costs - as well as any cost associated with losing animals to natural predators. While you need to have some kind of fence on your farm, having a LGD allows you to have less fencing as they fend off the scary bad guys. 

Unless you've got the money to fence in your entire property with tall, high-quality fences - or to have round-the-clock armed security watching your herd - you should probably get a livestock guardian dog. Some of the most popular LGD breeds are:

1. Great Pyrenees
2. Bernese Mountain Dogs
3. Anatolian Shepherds
4. Tibetan Mastiffs

Generally, a LGD needs to be big, strong, and have a very intimidating bark: that's how they scare off the bad guys. If need be, a livestock guardian will fight off the predators - being bigger gives them the best chance of winning. These pups live outside with the herd full-time, so you don't have to worry about potty training, and they are extremely loyal to both you and your herd. Just look at Thor and Ginger!

To some people, a moment like this could be what dreams are made of. Can you imagine casually strolling along the beach on your morning walk and stumbling upon the party of all parties!?

One woman recently shared an adorable video of a 'Golden Retriever meet up' taking place on the beach and I really don't know what else to say, besides this pretty much looks like the best time ever. Take a look:

One of them peed on someones backpack 🙈

Have you ever seen so many excited pups in the same place at once? And they're basically all Golden Retrievers? I personally wouldn't know what to do with myself. This is the kind of chaos I can get behind, that's for sure. The amount of positive energy flowing around this beach must've been insane! 

Related: Adorable Golden Retriever Protests After Realizing It's Blanket Wash Day

These dogs are absolutely loving their lives and aren't afraid to show it. Say what you want, but I think gatherings like this need to happen more often. In fact, I need gatherings like this to happen more often. And most importantly, I need to be there when they do. 

Most of us know that Golden Retrievers are known for craving outdoor activities, but did you know they absolutely love water? 

As the name suggests, Golden Retrievers were once bred for retrieving ducks and other birds for hunters. That means in most cases, they needed to get wet in order to fetch and bring back the prey to their hunting companions. 

Lucky for them (and pet parents), they have a dense, water-repellent outer coat with a thick undercoat, which insulates them against the cold, while the upper layer is longer and lies flat, repelling water 

Golden Retrievers are a breeze to train as well, which should help you a lot in teaching them how to swim confidently. And if you happen to be a water lover yourself, you’ll never find a better companion. 

They will not only take your game of fetch into the pool or pond to the next level, but they also love to accompany you to the beach, lake, creek or really anywhere they can jump in some water and play. 

Plus, swimming is an excellent exercise for Goldens, even when they're young. 

However, keep in mind, if they seem unsure about their surroundings, you can get in and swim out a bit to encourage them—but let them take their own time. Never think about just tossing them into the water, either! 

Instead, maybe throw in their favorite toy or something (but be prepared to go out and retrieve it yourself if they don’t). 

Regardless, Golden Retrievers generally love to be in the water. Whether it is the beach (like we see in this adorable video), the river, a lake or your own swimming pool, this breed will definitely enjoy splashing around, especially when it gets hot. 

And even though it goes without saying, make sure you don’t leave them unattended when they’re out in the water. Hey, better safe than sorry. Otherwise, get in there and join them! 

If your pup is a good swimmer, consider taking them to meet ups like this (if you're lucky enough to live somewhere where they happen). Like I said, I don't even know what I'd do with myself in a situation like this!

But I sure would love to be a part of it either way. 

After receiving a call to pick up two big dogs in an open field, one Animal Control Officer recently stumbled upon an adorable abandoned puppy who had been left in the middle of nowhere, which ultimately led to the pup finding her forever home. 

Happy accidents are the best accidents. And what we see in this heartwarming video is the best example of being in the right place at the right time that I've witnessed in a while. The universe was looking out for this little pup, that's for sure. Watch the moment unfold:

Everyday it’s a struggle to not fall in love with the dogs I pick up. I was this close 🤏🏼 to bringing her home. Luckily, this girl is no longer in our shelter and is on her way to start her new life. #chihuahuastiktok #chihuahuafanclub #chihuahuasoftiktok #chihuahuapuppy #straydog #straypuppy #rescuedog #dogrescue #fresnohumaneanimalcontrol #fresnohumaneanimalservices #fresnocountyanimalservices #animalcops #animalcopsfresno #pawpatrol #pawenforcement #animalcontrol #animalservices #animalservicesofficer #animalserviceagency #fresnocountyanimalshelter #femaleofficers #femaleofficerproblems #lawenforcement

You can't help but feel excited for this poor, neglected pup as she anxiously runs toward the woman—her savior—at the beginning of the video. It breaks my heart thinking of how long she had been struggling to survive out there (she didn't look in the best shape), but the good news is, she's already out of the shelter and on her way to start a new life. Amazing! 

Related: Rescue Dog's Attempt to Cuddle With New Sibling Is So Precious

The sheer coincidental luck that we're seeing here is enough to bring tears of joy to your eyes. Her whimpering is heartbreaking, but at the same time, she's so excited to have a loving human in her presence. The officer asks, "What are you even doing out here?" and gives us a panoramic view of where this pup was found, and it's absolutely devastating. So desolate. So dry. That's one tough little girl! She deserves the world. 

There's no denying that the decision to adopt a rescue pet or shelter dog is an important one. 

And while it can be difficult to take into account everything you’ll need to be prepared for—both expected and unexpected—the rewards of adopting a four-legged friend inevitably outweigh most concerns and fears many people have concerning adoption. 

It really goes without saying, but when you adopt a rescue pet, you’re saving a life—but you’re actually saving more than one. When you adopt, you’re actually helping make space for another animal in need, which gives them the opportunity to become beloved pets as well. 

Many people worry about connecting with a rescued dog as well, but you have to understand that shelter dogs have so much love to give. And the best part is, they won’t ever stop giving it to you. It's as if you literally become their savior, and they'll surely embrace the feeling. 

Beyond just helping an animal in need, you’re also giving them an opportunity to find their voice. It's gives them a chance to be themselves that they otherwise wouldn't have had; a second chance to become a dog beyond the walls of shelter or rescue. 

You truly give them the keys to start a brand new life in a world where second chances are often hard to come by. 

Most importantly, what could be better than having a lifelong friend? You’ll have a confidante. A pal. And ultimately—a beloved new family member. You’ll never feel lonely, that's for sure, and in return neither will they. It's a win-win! 

All it takes is one quick look at this adorable little pup to realize all dogs deserve a beautiful life. I have no idea how people can neglect or abandon animals, but it's unfortunately more common than we might want to accept. 

That's why it's so important to adopt and rescue animals if and when possible. Because one thing that’s for certain: life with a rescue dog brings big changes—in only the best ways! 

In the world of photography, macro shots certainly have their time and place. They don't always make sense, but if you're shooting your furry friend, they can be absolutely stunning. 

One photographer recently shared some impressively crisp images from a recent backyard photoshoot with his cat, Lissy on TikTok and there are some total gems in the mix, if you ask me. Have a look at these breathtaking, snowy images: 

Some close up and macro shots of my cat Lissy ❄️😺📸 which shot is your favorite? #furryfritz #catographer #cat #snowfall #catphotography #snowcat #cutecat

I can respect the variety of images he shot here. The portraits are amazing, but I love the detail of the snowflakes on her fur and whiskers. Those are so awesome! I have to say, though, my favorite shot is definitely the one of her paws. It's just different. And who doesn't love to obsess over little cat paws every now and then?

Related: Cat's Annoyance Over Being Put on a Diet Is How Exactly Everyone Feels

Getting a little behind-the-scenes look at the shoot is really cool, too. The fact that he's just in his backyard makes it that much better, in my opinion. He's literally creating magic within a few feet of the comfort of his home. You just have to admire that. Lissy is an absolute natural in front of the lens also! That is one sassy, cute little kitty right there. And she clearly loves the snow!

It's really not surprising that most cats don't love the cold, so when it comes to caring for your furry friends in winter, there are a few simple rules to keep in mind: keep them warm, dry and safe.

Like humans, cats can suffer from issues like hypothermia and frostbite, so helping their body temperature stay at a comfortable level is key. The good thing is, if it’s snowing, cats will typically stay inside anyways. So more often than not, you don’t really need to worry about them getting too cold.

That said, if your cat in particular is the curious and adventurous type, you’ll need to really keep an eye on them during cold and snowy weather and limit the amount of time they spend outside. If they are spending time outside, you'll want to always provide a warm, comfortable place for them to return home to. 

It's worth mentioning that parked cars can be very desirable places of refuge for cold cats during winter as well. They're known to curl up under the engine or in the wheel arch in search of warmth. So beware! It doesn't hurt to check these areas (and make plenty of loud noises) to give them time to escape before you start the car. Better safe than sorry.

Additionally—just like humans—kittens and older cats are more prone to suffer in freezing temperatures. Their immune systems are less effective in fighting off potential illness that the cold weather causes.

If your cat happens to fall into one of these categories, just make sure you pay extra close attention to their whereabouts when it's cold and snowy. We can't help the fact that they're so independent, but we can do our best to keep them safe (whether they think they need our assistance or not). 

However, as we learned from this adorable little photoshoot, some cats clearly love the cold. 

Maybe you have a cat like Lissy who simply adores the snow? If that's the case, I think your best bet would be doing exactly what our friend did here and take up photography.

I mean, who doesn't want to have a snowy photoshoot with their furry friends?