Parade Pets

A famous Corgi on social media is getting even more love thanks to his sweet cuddles to her mom, who is now pregnant.

On January 29, 2024, TikTok user Mad Max Fluffy Road (@madmax_fluffyroad) shared a video of how much Maxine the Fluffy Corgi is responding to her mom's pregnancy. Take a look!

9 months of Maxine & Mama, and we can’t wait for the next chapter #dogsoftiktok #baby #mama

In the 26-second clip, we get to see all nine months of Maxine loving on her mom during her pregnancy.

Related: Corgi Getting a Surfing Lesson on the West Coast Is a Regular Pro

"Does Maxine know her Mama is pregnant," the text on the screen reads as Maxine, a sweet Corgi, is cuddled onto her mom's tummy.

"For the past nine months, Maxine and her Mama have been inseparable..." the text continues. This time, Maxine and her Mom are laying on the couch, mom taking a small snooze and Maxine is all cuddled in her arms.

In the next clip, the two are sitting on the couch, this time Maxine is sprawled across her Mama's lap.

And when the video says they're inseparable, they mean exactly that.

"From the moment they wake up to just before bedtime ... so I think so," the text continues, as more clips of the two cuddling show on the screen.

"9 months of Maxine & Mama, and we can’t wait for the next chapter," the video's caption reads. In the comments, people swooned over this dog's sweet and gentle love.

"Patiently waiting for her new best friend," one person shared.

"Animals are so intuitive. My cat knew I was pregnant before I did. She started acting differently towards me, very clingy," she added.

"She's going to be the best big sister!" someone else added.

"My dog is actually how I found out I was pregnant with my 1st," another person shared. "Everyone was her best friend, and that changed overnight."

According to the American Kennel Club, dogs can sense smell, and that's the theory on how dogs seem to detect when their parent is pregnant.

"When a person is pregnant, the hormones in their body are likely to alter their scent in some way," the organization explains. 

Adding: "So, can dogs sense pregnancy? Because of their keen sense of smell, it’s believed by many that a dog can detect a change in a pregnant person even before they do — but it’s mostly conjecture."

One expert who spoke to the American Kennel Club said many people report "that their dogs are more affectionate and/or protective during their pregnancy."

And dogs are smart and can quickly pick up on changes, like a pregnant person's changing body shape. They note that dogs can pick up on your changing smell from hormones and see how much your stomach is changing."

We're going to guess that Maxine will be the very best big sister!

We love dogs because they're fun to hang out with, and science proves they help us relax. But how do dogs relax when they need a little R and R?

On January 29, TikTok user Taryn B (@tarynbankerd) shared a video of how her sweet dog takes time to relax. Take a look!

As soon as he hears those jets he makes his way over. He wont go in if the water is cold 😂

In a quick 22-second video, Taryn shared a video of her beautiful Anatolian Shepherd Dog, who loves to chill in the hot tub.

Related: 11 Insanely Cute Photos of Puppies Swimming Under Water

"My best friend joining me for a jacuzzi session," the text reads as we see the cute dog pop out from the dark and toward the hot tub.

You can tell this isn't his first time in the hot tub because he knew exactly how to walk down the steps without hesitation and already had a favorite seat, which he went to immediately.

Playing in the background of the video is the song "You've Got a Friend In Me" by Randy Newman from the Toy Story soundtrack, which drills home that this is a lovely way this sweet dog bonds with his mom.

"As soon as he hears those jets, he makes his way over," the video's caption reads. "He won't go in if the water is cold."

In the comments, people had a lot to say about how this dog loves to unwind.

"I like how he's so respectful and doesn't splash," one person wrote.

"He really said: 'Mind if I join?'" another shared.

"Do I know him? No. Would I die for him? Absolutely," someone else wrote.

"Not one splish was splashed," another added.

According to Rover, there are a few things pet parents should consider before allowing their dog into the hot tub, including five reasons why it might not be the best plan of action.

The first concern they outline is that the heated water might cause the pup to overheat.

"Dogs primarily will pant in order to cool themselves down. Most hot tubs are heated to a standard temperature of 102 degrees Fahrenheit," the site explains. "If your dog is panting in an environment like this, they would likely tire themselves out instead of cooling themselves down."

They also warn that the hot tub chemicals, particularly chlorine, can irritate your dog's skin. "If your dog is prone to drinking water whenever he can, then time in the spa is particularly dangerous," they warn.

Rover also says that sharing the hot tub with your dog can clog your filter or cause damage to your hot tub.

Of course, it's always a good idea to check with your dog's veterinarian to discuss.

When we think Huskies, we typically picture these big, fluffy dogs, running through a snowstorm without a care in the world. They're saving the day, braving the cold, and winning medals for it. 

That may have been true long ago, but the fact of the matter is simply: Huskies today are not always raised in the cold. The stories are fabricated. Not everything can be done with grace, as we see in this video:

grizzly is like yes, and whats your point? im having a great time #huskysnow #coloradoliving #backcountryskiing

Grizzly the Husky Bear may not be the best skier, but that's not what matters. He looks great doing it, and more importantly, he's having a lot of fun!

Related: Adorable Huskies Get Themselves ‘Hyped Up’ To Go for a Walk in Precious Footage

The funniest part of this entire video is that Grizzly and his parents live in Colorado, where there is tons of skiing and snowy activity to get up to. Grizzly could be a cross country skijoring dog (where the dog pulls the person on the skis along the slopes), a sled-puller, or a snow shoer. And yet, here he is: purely existing for the vibes. I love it!

As he travels along the path behind his humans, he sinks into the snow with every step. When you're a 60-pound fur ball on top of a layer of fluffy snow, that's bound to happen. Lucky him, though: his thick coat keeps him nice and warm and dry. 

Whether you're a professional skiers, a hobbyist, or you just live somewhere with snow in the winter, you have to prepare your dogs adequately. Luckily, there are some ways to "winterize" your pups:

1. Putting on coats and booties to keep them warm, especially smaller dogs.
2. Reading your dog's cues: if they're shivering, they're cold and it's time to go in. 
3. Keeping little hand warmer packs in your bags that you can put onto their paws or face. 
4. Keeping them leashed up, especially on trails. 

Unfortunately, there's not much you could do to prevent a dog from sinking in the snow, short of giving them their own set of skis. While it is possible, it's generally not recommended: trying to keep track of a dog on skis while also keeping yourself safe is nearly impossible. Skijoring is much more popular, especially for Huskies: they love to pull, and can pull you along. 

Another important thing to remember when you're skiing with your dog is that they still need to hydrate regularly. Skiing is a lot of work, and they're warm, even if it's cold out. Have a water bottle and maybe even a little treat at the ready!

It's hard to find someone who doesn't love a Corgi. After all, they've been the beloved pets of royalty (like the late Queen Elizabeth) and every day dog lovers alike throughout history, and it's easy to see why. With their friendly personalities, playful attitudes, and how outgoing they are, Corgis make friends everywhere they go... even in the most unexpected places, as it turns out.

The world may have fed us stories about dogs and cats being mortal enemies, but in so many situations, that isn't the case — including when it comes to this sweet footage that is going viral on TikTok this week. This happy-go-lucky Corgi was over the moon when she found out that she got to have a sleepover with her best friend, who just so happens to be a cat. Go figure!

The other two barn cats refuse to come near farmhouse, but do have a heated cat house in the barn #barncat #corgis #scoutthecorgi #mommyfarmer

In the footage shared by @mommyfarmer on TikTok recently, we get a glimpse into what looks like a really fun (and peaceful) life for the animals who live on her family farm. In addition to the Corgi, whose name is Scout, they also have three barn cats. But while two of them avoid the farmhouse altogether, one simply can't stay away from her bestie Scout.

The pets were going to have a sleepover, but it did take a bit of convincing as far as the cat was concerned (not that Scout was fazed by it one bit). She was patient, and eventually, her kitty friend, who is named Oreo, became comfortable enough to come all the way into the house and explore, eventually curling up on an armchair. Aww! 

There's no doubt that Scout and Oreo had a great sleepover party! 

As I mentioned earlier, Corgis are so loved because they really are a terrific dog breed, especially if you have a family with children. 

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Corgis are very active dogs who are friendly to everyone (though they might be a bit wary of strangers, like many pooches). 

They're smart and can be trained, but they also need a moderate amount of exercise — yes, even with those little legs — so make sure you have time to take them for a long walk each day to get those steps in.

They're happy in homes of all sizes, whether you live on a farm like Scout's fam does or in an apartment, and they will be loyal companions (and pretty cute to have around the house, too), even if you don't happen to be Queen Elizabeth.

Here's hoping this is just the first of Scout and Oreo's many bestie sleepovers! 

If we were asked to explain what a rhinoceros looks like, chances are pretty high that we wouldn't use the adjective "cute."

But that's a completely fitting description when you're talking about a baby rhino, like the one who is giving everyone smiles at Zoo Atlanta. Take a look!

Living for this boop and this boop alone 🦏 #rhino #rhinobaby #rhinoceros #animals

In a quick clip shared on the zoo's official TikTok account, we meet up with their baby rhino, who really loves the camera.

Related: Baby Rhino at Zoo Atlanta Gets the Most Adorable Case of the 'Zoomies'

The video is only ten seconds long, but its cuteness will definitely last longer than that. The video starts with a screen that's hard to tell what it is at first. It's big, gray, and wrinkly. 

We can see some ears, and it looks like some dried dirt. But hard to tell otherwise what we're seeing.

Until the camera moves slightly to the side so we can see an animal eyeball and the text reading "baby rhino boop" on the screen in red.

It's a baby rhino who is very curious about the camera and walks right up to it, boops the camera with its nose, and tries to figure out what it is through smell.

And while the rhino is trying to figure out what the camera is, we're gifted this adorable close-up look at the little one.

The rhino does end up taking a step back so we can get a full look at the cutie, and it's the perfect fix for anyone feeling down.

"Living for this boop and this boop alone," the video's caption reads. And people chat in the comments about this cute little one.

"Too cute," one person wrote.

"OMG," another shared.

"Sweetest lil boop," added another.

"Little beauty," someone else shared.

On Christmas 2023, the zoo shared the good news that Kiazi, a Southern White Rhinoceros, gave birth to the first-ever rhino born at Zoo Atlanta.

"The calf appears to be healthy and strong, and Kiazi is providing appropriate maternal care, according to the Animal Care and Veterinary Teams, who continue to monitor the pair closely," the press release shared. 

Continuing: "Kiazi, 22, has experience as a mother, having given birth to two previous living offspring at another organization prior to moving to Zoo Atlanta. Mother and calf will have an opportunity to continue to bond behind the scenes before entering the rhino habitat."

“The Zoo Atlanta family is beyond excited about the birth of Kiazi’s calf. This birth has been long-awaited news for many months. We have had many exciting developments in our rhino population over the past year,” Raymond B. King, President and CEO, said. 

“If there is a special connection that our Members and guests can make with Kiazi and her calf, this is a connection that can translate to conservation action. All rhino species are currently in peril, and as stewards of this brand-new ambassador here in Atlanta, we also have a responsibility to do all we can to raise awareness of the status of wild rhinos.”  

Since then, we've seen this adorable rhino do all kinds of adorable things, including the time the baby got the zoomies, and now we have a nose boop clip to add to the fun. 

Just like humans have different abilities, so do dogs. While many of them don't let it stop them from being playful and affectionate, there are sweet pups out there battling major obstacles like blindness, deafness, and limb differences — some after an injury or illness, and some because they were born with it. But fortunately, we do live in 2024, and there are ways to help these dogs have a better quality of life than they would have had even just a couple of decades ago, especially when a little human kindness comes into play.

For example: this heartwarming story of a high school robotics team who put their heads together to create a custom wheelchair for a two-legged dog who really needed it to be able to get around and play.

it’s a wheely great story #weratedogs

In this sweet story that was shared on the We Rate Dogs TikTok account on Monday, January 29, we meet Roo, a dog who lives in Louisiana and was born without two front legs. But after the students at Holy Savior Menard Central High School found out about her, they decided they'd do everything they can to help her live as normal a life as possible.

They designed and created a dog wheelchair that was meant to fit tiny Roo perfectly, and after months of hard work, she's finally able to use her brand new mobility device — and if the clips in this video are any indication, she's getting pretty good at it already! 

The students say that they will continue to make wheelchairs that will fit Roo as she grows, so she'll never be without, and it seems like she's been getting plenty of love in the process, too!

As a local ABC news affiliate has reported, the task of 3D printing a wheelchair for Roo — whose full name is Kanga-Roo — began in October, and in that time, the dog has found a forever home after coming to the humane society at just four weeks old. 

Robotics coach Tonya Shepard seems proud of her students and of Roo.

“She was a little bit scared at first. We had a few little tip-overs, made some adjustments, but it’s literally changed her life and the way that she’s able to move, become mobile, not worrying about getting sores or breakdowns from constantly being on the ground,” she said.

Here's hoping Roo continues to have plenty of adventures! It's pretty clear she's one extraordinary pet. 

Not everyone was lucky enough to grow up in a house with a lovable dog as a member of the family, but that doesn't meant that those people have been shut off from ever adopting a pup as an adult. Many people decide to jump into pet parenthood with both feet once they're living on their own, but if it's your first time, there's no denying it's overwhelming. Even just filling out the adoption applications from local pet rescues can make you feel like you're in over your head, and how are you supposed to know which dog is right for you? Sure, personality is part of it... and sometimes, that personality is also affected by the breed you choose to welcome into your home.

But where do you begin? One expert is sharing the little known dog breeds you might not even be considering when it comes to adopting your first dog, and she's making a lot of valid points in this video.

Love all three of these options! As always - would love owner input #dogtraining #dogsoftiktok #dogbreeds #dogtrainingadvice #puppytiktok

According to what dog trainer @ingridatlasandarlo shared in a TikTok video on Sunday, January 28, there are three breeds that some first time pet parents are overlooking in their search — but maybe those who are lucky enough to catch this video won't join that group! 

Out of the three breeds mentioned, one is very tiny: the Biewer Terrier, which is actually one of the newest breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). These dogs, who are similar to the Yorkshire Terriers, are ideal for anyone looking for a toy-sized lap dog. 

Those who are looking for more of a medium-sized dog may be interested in the Sussex Spaniel, who are easy going, trainable animals. They should also look into the Gordon Setter, who are similar to Golden Retrievers and are very affectionate and will always behave like an energetic puppy. These seem like three great choices! 

Many of the people who are looking for their first dog are also looking for one who will be good with a family — whether their future human already has kids or is planning to have them someday. In that case, what kind of breed is best? 

The AKC has plenty of recommendations on that front. Labrador Retrievers, Bulldogs, and of course, Golden Retrievers top the list, while breeds including Newfoundlands, Collies, and Irish Setters round it out. 

While the breed of your dog will have something to do with their compatibility with your family — and your ability to meet their needs, especially when it comes to exercise and the level of attention they crave — so much of it does come down to an individual dog's personality and training. 

Finding the perfect dog isn't easy, but it's worth it when you finally get to bring your brand new four-legged family member home. 

Everyone discounts the small dogs. When it comes to dogs that can hold their ground, we tend to think of big, fearless dogs that take on a pack of coyotes just to protect their parents. 

That's just not fair. On Friday, January 26th, one Yorkie parent showed that Yorkies can be just as picky about their territory, and they're willing to fight for what they want:

Foxy thinks she owns the ramp 🥰 #yorkie #dogsoftiktok #ramp

Spikey Michael is just not having any of it. Just because Foxy thinks she's queen of the ramp doesn't mean he doesn't deserve the coziest spot - he was there first!

Related: Yorkie Giving Unborn Sibling His Favorite Bone Is the Best Big Brother

Michael and Foxy are tiny Teacup Yorkie puppies, and by default, they have tiny Teacup Yorkie puppy legs. Trying to jump up onto couches, beds, or even stairs could end badly for them, so they need a little bit of a boost: a carpeted ramp. That way, they're able to get up without risking injury, and the carpet gives them a little bit of traction. 

Yorkies are not good at waiting their turn, and siblings are even worse at it. Originally, Yorkies were bred to live in barns, mines, and homes and hunt down the rats. Their small stature made them perfect for squeezing into tight spaces to catch their prey. Though the general hysteria over the "rat plague" had died down quite a bit, rats were still a carrier of disease - and, to make matters worse, they just make everything worse. The goal was to catch as many of them as they could before they destroyed any goods, and Yorkies were a perfect instrument. 

Pretty soon after, though, these pups were plucked from the fields and sent into homes as companions. They're very affectionate, small enough to carry around in a cute purse, and a well-groomed Yorkie is one of the most beautiful dogs on the planet! Still, they've maintained a lot of their "nippy" nature, and they will chase and bite whenever they feel appropriate. 

This video might look kind of concerning, but it's really alright: both dogs are having a good time. Their ears are straight up, tails wagging, and they're not growling or biting at each other: they're barking. Even if one of them is trying to establish dominance in this situation, they don't feel threatened enough to get really aggressive. A dog who is not in the mood to play will be:

1. Growling, snarling, and snapping.
2. Flattening their ears. 
3. Keeping their tail very still. 
4. Actively trying to get away, not going back for more. 

That's not to say playing can't turn into fighting, and I think Michael and Foxy's mom does a great job of mitigating the situation early enough. Any more, and they may have gotten frustrated with each other. If you can see your dogs turning the corner and getting ready to square up, you should separate them without getting too upset yourself. They'll feed off that energy and you could get hurt! These pups end up both getting on the couch and everything is fine. Good job, mom!

In a dog's mind, a toy can pretty much be anything. Maybe it's random items of clothing, old dirty shoes, napkins, trash, this, that and the other—anything. 

But one pup recently set her ambitions pretty high as far as toys are concerned. As we see in this adorable video posted by her parents, Emma the Rottweiler wanted the moon! Like...really, really wanted it. 

How can we get Emma the moon?🥲 #TheRottieFam #rottweiler #dog #dogsoftiktok

You know, I can't help but feel bad for eager Emma. And I think her parents would agree! They seem genuinely disappointed to break the news to her that she can't have that toy. "It's too far, baby," they tell her. "I'm sorry." But Emma clearly doesn't want to hear it. "I want it," she barks. "I WANT IT!"

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

Also, I love when pet parents caption their videos and translate barks and sounds into human language. Why is it so believable!? I truly believe that Emma's was saying those exact things. Anyways, I feel for this little pup. The way she keeps looking up, truly baffled by this fun, glowing ball in the sky really gets me. It's funny, sure, but she just cannot take her eyes off the (unattainable) prize.   

Affectionately known as Rotties, the Rottweiler ranks in the top ten of most popular dog breeds via the American Kennel Club (AKC). And when properly raised, these dogs will often have quite the playful personality, along with a distinct level of confidence, intelligence, and loyalty to their humans. 

But did you know they were once Roman Drover dogs? When the Roman legions made their way across Europe they would utilize herding dogs to move and guard cattle, and today's modern Rottweiler is thought to be a descendent of the Asian mastiffs that were once used to breed herders.

Also, (even though it's not necessarily a personality trait) at one point, Rottweilers almost became extinct! Industrialization may have played a role in this, as Rotties were herding dogs. So, if cattle didn't need to be herded, well, the dogs typically weren't needed. This happened around the middle of the 1800s (as railroads were built and more roads were paved), which made it easier to transport herds. 

Fortunately for us, and despite Industrialization, Rottweiler lovers worked hard to keep them around, and by the 1900s a new job for these now “working” dogs was established. Yep! This was when Rottweilers began serving as police and military dogs due to their undeniable strength, intelligence and confidence. 

In fact, immediately following the attacks of 9/11, rescue dogs were deployed with handlers to the devastating Twin Towers site and Rottweilers bravely searched through the rubble with other breeds like the German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers, which is absolutely admirable. 

And hey (for what it's worth), celebrities love Rottweilers' personalities, too! As a matter of fact, some only have eyes for the loving and loyal Rottweiler. On that list is: Bruno Mars, Hayden Panettiere, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Will Smith (who actually owns several), just to name a few. 

Rottweiler popularity continues to grow as more dog lovers discover how lovable and amazing this breed is. I mean, these are just a few fun facts and traits, but we've really stretched pretty far across the board here—from the Romans to modern celebrities; military and police officers to dog-lovers across the globe, it's a pretty impressive resume if you ask me. 

Who knows? Maybe Rottweilers really will be the first dogs to be sent to the moon!? Fingers crossed that Emma is on board...that is, as long as she still wants to. 

Plenty of animals are perfectly capable of surviving in the wild for their entire lives without the help (or the interference) of human beings. But then, there are those who are struggling and could really use some assistance from a kind person who is willing to provide it. Seeing a baby animal who is suffering after being separated from their mother is one of the most heartbreaking experiences, and so many of us are willing to open our hearts, and sometimes even our homes, to these tiny creatures.

One woman has gone above and beyond when it comes to helping a kitten who really needed it, and after sharing the moment the little one realized that she was finally safe, the video is going viral. Warning: This might end up making you cry! 

Ive got this sweet lil girl kitten my coworkers rescued. I will be looking for a forever home for her once she is healthy. We are located near Hot Springs, Arkansas. #cat #cats #catsoftiktok #catlovers #fyp

The video was shared by @cindybmoon on TikTok on Sunday, January 28, and since she is a horse trainer, she wasn't entirely new to animals when she encountered this kitten her coworkers rescued near Hot Springs, Arkansas. 

She wrote that the kitten was found "starved" in a dumpster, but after giving her the first bath she's ever had, she seemed to realize that everything was going to be okay... and in the video, it's almost like you can see the moment that happens unfolding.

Now, the OP of the video is a proud foster parent... but since she already has four cats, she's not sure that she'll be able to convince her husband that they need to keep her. It looks like they already have such a strong bond, so maybe they won't have to separate after all, but even if they do, she said she's already gotten a lot of interest from people who want to adopt this adorable feline.

It can be hard to know what to do if you come across a cat you believe has been orphaned. According to the SPCA, first, you should make sure that the cat actually needs your help before proceeding — if the mother hasn't returned after you've been watching from a distance for awhile, it's safe to assume that the kitten may have been orphaned.

It's important to provide heat to a kitten, since they are unable to regulate their body temperature, along with food. If the kitten appears to be under three weeks old, you'll want to feed with kitten formula even three to four hours; any older than that, and you can try canned cat food mixed with a small amount of water.  

Make a veterinarian appointment right away so that the kitten can be evaluated, and the vet can help you determine next steps, whether it's finding a cat rescue to take the animal in or preparing you to care for the kitten yourself. 

Adopting a kitten isn't easy, but many cat lovers out there would certainly say that it is worth it. 

Rainy days are a very polarizing topic: you either love them or you hate them. If you're a farm animal, rainy days probably make it a little more difficult to frolic around and eat all the treats you find in the field!

On Friday, January 26th, one farm had a rainy day, and mom corralled all of the animals up at the house to go over some important ground rules:

Spring is wild. #chaosacres #farm #farmlife

"Chaos Acres" is right. Not to be a weasel, but I definitely don't think those turkeys were listening. The goats will probably do what their mom said, but birds are just crafty!

Related: Farm Dog Sweetly Protects 3-Legged Goat Who Just Had Leg Surgery

Being a farmer must be stressful. Not only do you have a bunch of animals to care for; none of them want to listen, and rain puts a damper on your day. You have a tough choice to make: letting your animals get dirty in the mud or keeping them cooped up all day. 

That's exactly what happened at Chaos Acres: the farmer had a smaller area in mind for them to play in. Telling them was just for fun; to actually keep them contained, you'd need a fence. A small fence would do the trick for these animals: none of them are fliers or big jumpers. 

Whether you're doing all of the herding by yourself or you have a dedicated herding dog, herding in the rain is always a little bit harder than herding in the sunshine. Farm animals tend to be more apprehensive of water: they don't want to fall, and if they feel like they're going to, they will stop walking. 

Drizzle is okay, and most animals will even choose to be outside if the rain isn't too bad, especially if it's hot. However, the second it turns into more serious rain, they might get a little spooked. The best thing you can do is to look at the weather forecast carefully, and if it's going to be heavy rain or thunder, don't even bother opening up the barn: most of them won't even go outside anyway. 

If your animals get a little muddy, you don't need to be too concerned: you can just hose off the bigger ones. For birds like those beautiful turkeys and chickens, a lukewarm bath with a mild dish soap if necessary will do the trick perfectly!

This video proves that I could never be a farmer. If that was me, I'd just be letting all of them into my house for a move night during the storm!

Personally, I'm a fan of all owl species. They're easily one of my favorite animals. But the Eastern Screech Owl, like we see in this heartfelt video, is definitely high up on that list. 

This pint-sized gentleman is named Sassafras, and he lives at the Cincinnati Zoo. Oh, and he's a giver. In fact, this giving behavior is very common during breeding season (which is right now). And if you think he's flirting, well, he is. See for yourself: 

Meet Sassafras, the Eastern screech owl! It’s breeding season which means his keepers are being gifted flirty worms again! #owl #owlsoftiktok #birds #cincinnatizoo

Look at those eyes! He genuinely looks like he wants his loving human to take that "present" out of how mouth and enjoy it. The sincerity is all too real. Little does he know, we humans don't love insects as much as him, but hey—it's the thought that counts, right? Right. 

Related: Owl Who Escaped the Central Park Zoo a Year Ago Becomes a True New Yorker

One thing is for sure—Sassafras is a total heartthrob. In fact, he's making some of us look bad over here! Valentines Day is right around the corner. And I just have to say, I'm borderline obsessed with his hoots. Can I make that my ringtone? These owls are just so fascinating. Everything about them—from their appearance to their behavior to their size—is so interesting to me.  

Common east of the Rockies in woods, suburbs, and parks, the Eastern Screech Owl is basically found wherever trees are (and they’re even willing to nest in backyard nest boxes). 

These impressively camouflaged birds hide out in nooks and tree crannies through the day, so unless you're at a zoo, you'll want to train your ears and listen for them at night if you want to catch a glimpse of one in the wild. But again, their camouflage doesn't make it easy. 

That said, if a mysterious noise catches your attention in the night, just keep in mind that the spooky sound you're hearing may be coming from an owl no bigger than a pint glass. 

Male Eastern Screech Owls are actually smaller than females, but they're more agile fliers and hunters. The female doesn’t hunt while on the nest. She and the babies depend on food solely brought them by the male, which only adds to the admiration for these impressive, generous owls. 

And even though the male is smaller, his voice is deeper than the female’s.

These owl pairs are usually are monogamous, too, and typically remain together for life. However, some males will mate with two different females, and the second female may evict the first female, lay her own eggs in the nest, and incubate both clutches. Isn't nature wild?

However, as giving and flirty as they may act and appear, make no mistake—these owls fight fiercely among themselves for food and are known to eat a variety of songbirds, including the European Starling. 

I will say this—if you have space in your yard, just know that these owls readily accept nest boxes. Consider putting one up to attract a breeding pair! Make sure you put it up well before breeding season, though, and be sure to attach a guard to keep predators from raiding eggs and young.

Hey, maybe you'll receive a few little gifts of your own? Either way, having the chance to observe these fascinating owls in a safe, comfortable environment would be too cool. Best roommates ever!

Sea Lions and seals deserve to be protected at all costs. The fact that they look like little pups with flippers naturally leads folks to try and interact with them given the opportunity, but more times than not, it's not a good thing. 

Because of these interactions, two beaches in San Diego (Boomer Beach and Point La Jolla) where seal and sea lion populations flourish have recently closed down indefinitely, and by the looks of this adorable video, a few locals seem pretty excited about it. Take a look: 

Boomer Beach and Point La Jolla in San Diego are both now permanently closed after multiple interactions between visitors and seals, sea lions, and surrounding wildlife. The San Diego City Council voted on this matter several months ago and these areas will now be closed off indefinitely. If you are visiting San Diego anytime soon, remember to keep your distance and respect all wildlife💙 #sandiego #sandiegonews #lajolla #lajollasealions #thingstodoinsandiego #sandiegoblogger #breakingnews #sandiegobeach #sandiegolife

Being born and raised in San Diego, I've seen these interactions take place from time to time as well, but I'm happy to admit I've never participated myself. Besides the blatant signs forbidding it, there are plenty of places to casually watch these silly little guys from afar; places that won't harm them or their natural environments. 

Related: Precious Footage of Day-Old Baby Harbor Seal Is Full of Sweetness

And while I understand the urge to take pictures and get close to seals and sea lions can be a strong one—hey, they're cute...I get it—we need to respect wildlife and keep our distance. Simple as that. There's a fine line between being too close, and truly being too close for comfort. Something definitely needed to be done about it, and this is a great first step in the right direction if you ask me. 

California sea lions are playful, intelligent, and extremely vocal (they literally sound like barking dogs) little goobers. And like all marine mammals, they are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. 

Their population has been increasing since at least 1975, after protections were put in place under the MMPA, which is no small feat. It's pretty amazing, actually!  

NOAA Fisheries (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) also plays a major role in conserving the California sea lion through collaborative management, integrated science, partnerships, and outreach. 

"Our scientists use innovative techniques to study, protect, and rescue California sea lions in distress—for example, stranded or caught in nets," says the NOAA. "Our work helps reduce harm from human activities (such as fishing and pollution) through management based on sound science, public input, and public outreach."

One of the main threats to sea lions continues to be getting caught in fishing gear. They become entangled in many different gear types, including traps, pots, or an assortment of nets, and once entangled, they may drag and swim with attached gear for long distances. 

This ultimately results in fatigue, compromised feeding ability, or sometimes even severe injury (which may lead to reduced reproductive success and, worst case, sometimes death).

But most importantly, because sea lions are easy to view in the wild, it puts them at higher risk of human-related injuries and death—that's why we really need to stop these interactions. 

Feeding or even trying to feed them is harmful (and illegal, FYI), because it changes their natural behaviors and makes them less wary of people and vessels.

In many cases, they learn to associate humans with an easy meal and change their natural hunting practices. An example of this is taking a bait catch directly off fishing gear, for instance. Remember, they're natural hunters. It's part of who they are and how they live. Why disturb that?

Spend even a quick moment in the comments and you can really sense the excitement of these beach closures amongst locals and out-of-towners alike. 

There's plenty of coastline for us all, and these little guys definitely deserve their own slice of it. 

Anyone who has a bird will tell you that they're almost constantly losing feathers. It's typically not a lot of feathers, but at least a few (enough that you'll be finding them daily. all over your life). Honestly, it's kind of hilarious. 

On Monday, January 29th, one bird mom catches the exact moment her bird lost a feather, and it's amazing:

Hey! Get back here! #parrotlet #oops #fluffy #floof #cute #reaction #adorable

The Green Bird Brigade obviously needs to stay fresh and ready for battle. Although this pretty blue bird isn't green, I'd consider him an honorary member!

Related: Beautiful Blue Bird Struts His Stuff To Beg Mom for a Treat and It's Too Cute

The bird in the video is enjoying a nice snuggle with mom when he shifts and loses a feather. This is common for birds: even if it's not molt-time, you can expect some feather loss just like this. One feather at a time, though they usually don't even notice. He just so happened to be looking when it fell, and he goes after it immediately. Most likely, he thought it was a little snack and soon realized that it was absolutely not that!

This blue bird is a Pacific Parrotlet, which is a small species of parrot that hails from South America. Though they look similar to the Australian native Budgerigar, they're very different birds: Budgies are a little bit bigger and typically have scalloped details on their feathers. Parrotlets are quieter, too: Budgies will scream and chirp all day long, but a Parrotlet's noises are more likely to be softer. 

Though it's totally fine for your bird to be losing a feather or two here and there, there definitely comes a point where you should be concerned. Generally, birds molt in a few ways:

1. Full molt: once a year (typically in the warmer months).
2. Partial molt: every few months.

The difference is that a full molt will include tail and wing feathers, while a partial molt typically only includes smaller areas on the back, head, and belly. Between molts, feathers may fall off at random: they're being replaced with new ones. As long as your bird isn't developing bald spots, you have nothing to worry about. 

However, if you notice that your bird is looking kind of bare, it means that there is definitely something wrong. A balding bird may be stressed out, which leads to over-preening, or they could be sick. Additionally, cage-mates may be over-preening your bird.

As soon as you start to notice excessive feather loss, quarantine your bird and get in a call to your avian vet. The sooner you diagnose the issue, the sooner you can fix it: these things can go downhill quickly. Luckily for this little guy, though, everything seems to be totally on track!

Many parents are concerned about how their dogs will feel when they bring a new human baby home. Will they be jealous? Or will they become the best of friends? There’s only one way to know.

Fortunately, for this growing family, there wasn’t anything to worry about. This tiny Yorkie may have enjoyed being an only child, but he sure seems to enjoy being a big brother even more.

This video shared on January 23 shows how beautifully their relationship has developed in the last 6 weeks.

These tiny cuties are precious! Zilla just can’t get enough of his new baby sister Gianna. He’s curled up close to her head while snuggling together on the couch. Even when it’s time for a nap, he’s right by her side. He watches her intently while she sleeps in her crib from only a few inches away, and when it’s time for Dad to bounce them up and down, he’s ready for that, too! Baby Gianna appears just as excited about having her tiny pal by her side as he easily brings a smile to her beautiful little face. If this is their dynamic after 6 weeks, they'll surely be lifelong best friends.

Related: Yorkie Giving Unborn Sibling His Favorite Bone Is the Best Big Brother

The Coxwell Animal Clinic recommends allowing your dog to become acclimated to the new sounds and smells before introducing them to your newborn in closer proximity. They also suggest making any changes to your four-legged child’s routine before the baby is born. That way, they don’t associate these changes with the newest family member. They recommend, “Give your dog plenty of attention when the baby is around. You don’t want him to decide good things only happen when the baby isn’t around.” They also advise to never leave an infant alone with even the most well-behaved dog.

The way this little dog welcomed his little sister impressed people who watched the video. Viewer @MROD responded, “It’s just crazy how gentle he is with her. He truly is so special!” That’s for sure. Viewer @Destinee remarked, “When people say Yorkies are not kid friendly…” Much like any dog, it often depends on how they are raised and how they are introduced. Viewer @Sharon responded, “Sorry parents, this is definitely now Godzilla’s baby from here on out.” He sure seems to have claimed her as his own.

Thankfully, Zilla fell in love with his new little sister with no problems. Perhaps he knows it won’t be long before there’s another human who can provide him with treats.

Humans can sometimes misinterpret the signals dogs give off. This misunderstanding can lead to a host of problems, even when our actions are well intended.

One common mistake this trainer often sees has to do with the dog showing us their belly. Although many enjoy having their tummy scratched, not every dog exposes their underside for this reason.

Learn how to tell the difference in this video from January 29:

Train with us at methodk9.com

This isn’t something I would’ve thought about until she pointed it out. The dog lying next to her is Clover, and although she might be receptive to being pet now, she wasn’t earlier in the week. Stephanie describes that Clover had been rolling onto her back and exposing her belly. Her intention wasn't to seek attention but rather to display submission. She reports, “To the average dog owner, it might look like she’s letting her guard down and wants to be pet, but in those instances, she was acting very submissive with me. Very unsure, very nervous, and trying to appease me by going on her back.” 

When a dog acts like this, it's not recommended to approach them from above and hold them down. Although this might seem innocent, it’s not. Doing this, she explains, can further push a dog into being more submissive, more afraid, and more anxious.

Related: Trainer Highlights Common Mistake People Make While Walking Their Dog on a Leash

Stephanie explains that Clover is now comfortable lying on her side and even checks in with her to engage. The time to pet her is now. Most importantly, Clover is relaxed and is not trying to be submissive. If Stephanie had taken advantage of her belly exposure when she was still on guard, she would not be this relaxed now. She advises that if we have a dog who tucks their tail, submissively pees, or rolls on their belly when meeting someone new, it may be best to not have this person give them attention. She reveals this is because they are, “Trying to appease the situation, and not really looking for affection.” Instead, she recommends telling our guests to ignore the dog and keep moving, and we should do the same.

Unsure about your dogs' desires? Try a quick pet test. Should the dog not flee or display anxiety, you can provide them with attention and evaluate their reaction. If they behave like Clover, who is completely relaxed when receiving her affection, it’s a sign they want more.

Some dogs were bred to live on a farm and contribute by working. Livestock guardians have been used for thousands of years to guard otherwise defenseless animals, and they do so happily. 

Some dogs may not have been built for farm life, but that doesn't mean they can't be besties with the farm animals. One video from Monday, January 29th showed a Golden Retriever bridging that gap without a care in the world:

I really needed that kiss 🥹 #pure #borisandcows #kindness #hugs wholesome #goldenretriever #sad #fieldpuppies #bittersweet #fy

I hope Lily, Boris, and Darcy all get a chance to meet these field puppies - and I hope they all look this stylish while doing it.

Related: Farm Dog's Playful Friendship with Retired Show Horse Couldn't Be Sweeter

The one in this video is Boris: based on what we can see from the rest of the account, Boris is the one who really loves his field puppies: he doesn't care that they're probably 20x his size or that they have 4x the amount of stomach that he does. All Boris knows is that he wants to be their friends, and the cows seem to like him, too. 

Boris doesn't live on the farm: he's the next door neighbor. Separated only by a fence, Boris apparently goes to their pasture every day, hoping to get in some quality time with the cows. Unfortunately, his previous neighbors' cows disappeared, and his field was puppy-less for a little while. Thank goodness, though: the next crop has arrived, and they like kisses! How convenient!

There are a few different types of farm dog jobs, and there a different set of dogs that are great for each one. Some examples are:

1. Livestock guardians to protect the herd. 
2. Herders to keep the herd together. 
3. Fun dogs who like to play and are purely there for the vibes. 

Boris falls into category #3. As a Golden Retriever, he's not quite big or tough enough for guarding, and he's not a herder. He's a retriever! If one of the cows throws a ball, he'll be all over it, but until then, he's more of a personality hire. As silly as it might sound, having an animal there that just wants to be friends is a good way to keep spirits up and ensure none of the animals get lonely. 

When you're introducing a dog to livestock, being calm and gentle is important: excessive barking, jumping, or licking could freak them out, and someone could get hurt. Because Golden Retrievers are pretty even-tempered, they tend to fit into this role well. Just look at Boris: the like him so much they're tipping him with kisses!

As much as we hate to leave our furry friends, we don't always have a choice. Things come up, and we're needed elsewhere, and they need to stay home.

While leaving them totally stinks, coming home to them will always be one of the most special feelings in the world. Just watch this reunion from Monday, January 29th:

Ronnie the Rhodesian ridgeback was finally reunited with his owner. Caitlin Matthews says the two were apart for six months after her brother relocated from England to Australia.

6abc Action News's video of the reunion is just so special. I don't Ronnie stopped moving the entire time!

Related: Woman Reunites With Her Childhood Golden Retriever and His Reaction Is Priceless

Ronnie's dad had to leave him behind during a move: he was moving to Australia from the UK. Sometimes, during a move, pet parents just can't find a pet-friendly place to go, so they have to re-home their babies, even just temporarily. The adjustment period is rough on everyone involved, which is why it's good that Ronnie's aunt was able to take him in!

After about six months down under, Ronnie's dad was ready to bring him home: from the looks of the video, Ronnie was shipped off to Australia in a dog crate. A journey like that will leave any pup very excited to see their caretakers again!

Ronnie is a Rhodesian Ridgeback: they were bred for hunting and livestock guarding, and then used by colonizers in South Africa to assist with trophy hunts. They're lean, fast, and have that trademark ridge on their backs: it's not bone, it's merely some fur that grows upward instead of flat against their body. 

It is possible to pull off an international move with your pup, but the requirements vary from country to country. Regardless of where you're going, you're going to need vet papers, and usually proof that your dog is:

1. Fully vaccinated.
2. Not carrying any communicable diseases.
3. Not in violation of any breed restrictions in the receiving country.
4. Not aggressive (no history of biting, etc.).
5. Many countries require proof of spay/neuter.

Sometimes, your paperwork is sorted, but your pup still has a way to go, hence the need for the temporary separation. If you have a job lined up and you're supposed to start work, you just have to go, and that's probably what happened in Ronnie's case. Additionally, Australia requires that all incoming animals quarantine; Ronnie was in quarantine for a month, but the length of time varies by dog.

None of that matters now: Ronnie was reunited with his dad in Australia on January 8th, and Ronnie's aunt says they're living their best lives together in the land down under. Watch out for spiders, Ronnie!

We all get distracted from time to time. What can you do? And while some moments don't matter nearly as much as others, some moments certainly do—like a proposal, for instance. That matters.  

Tasked with filming her friend's proposal, one woman recently found herself in an unlikely predicament of sorts. Halfway through the special moment, a curious little raccoon entered the scene and distracted the woman from capturing the actual proposal, and I hate to admit it, but the video is pretty hilarious. Take a look:

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

"Missed the whole kneeling down part," she writes as the caption. "Don't worry, she wasn't mad!" That's a good friend! I personally know plenty of people who would be freaking out in a situation like this. What about you? 

Related: Raccoon’s Reaction To Trying Reese’s Pieces Is Way Too Relatable

Now, the skeptic in me wants to think this was all just staged. It wouldn't be the craziest thing to assume—social media is full of similar moments, most of them even harder to believe. But at the same time, how do you stage a wild raccoon encounter? And on the subject of staging things, they could re-stage the proposal a lot easier than this actual moment, you know? So either way, this is pretty funny. 

Depending on where you live, you might see raccoons all the time. That said, you might also never see them. In any case, there are definitely some things you should and shouldn't do when encountering a raccoon in the wild that are worth knowing.

Above all, if you encounter one of these cute, curious little critters, your best bet is to just let it be. 

Raccoon populations have adapted to live in urban areas in many parts of the country out of necessity and may appear comfortable approaching humans, but as with most wildlife, the best thing we can do is simply leave them alone. This is especially the case if they don't appear to be sick or injured. 

Also, keep in mind that more often than not, the best offense is good defense. This is mainly because raccoons are creatures of opportunity—if you’re offering them a source of food or shelter in your backyard, for example, they will graciously accept. 

However, if you leave raccoons no reason to pay you a visit, they will leave you (and your yard, trash cans, shed, garden, attic…) alone. That's why you should never feed raccoons—whether on purpose or accidentally. In addition to securing your trash can lids, you should also avoid leaving any pet food or treats outside. 

Another fairly simple thing to keep in mind is that you'll never need to remove raccoons (or other animals, for that matter) from your home if you never let them inside in the first place. Every once in a while, it doesn't hurt to inspect your home for holes and any spots that might be attractive to a raccoon looking for a den. 

If you see any holes or suspicious looking areas, make sure to cover them up safely and keep inspecting for a few days after. 

Trapping is not the answer, either. Even if a professional trapper promises to release a wild animal after trapping, they are still usually euthanized, which none of us want. 

I guess the real question is: what do you do if you're filming a proposal and encounter a raccoon? Well, that answer is pretty obvious—you film the raccoon and miss the proposal, duh!

Jokes aside, this moment wouldn't have been the same without this little guy trying to get in on it. And for that, I'm thankful. Consider it a good luck charm! 

Isn't it wonderful how the cutest little things our pets do can literally brighten our entire day? It doesn't take much, either. To me, it's like a superpower. Which can only mean our pets are obviously superheroes. Duh! 

Well, for one sweet little Golden Retriever named Nala, her morning routine includes a daily "trust fall" into dad (or a flop, as he calls it, which is way more fun) and as we see in this feel-good video, it's absolutely adorable. 

I cant explain how happy it makes me when she does this

I love that Nala's dad takes us on a tour of the entire week as well. It really paints a picture, doesn't it? After all, routines are only routines if we continuously do them, and something tells me this part of their routine is the highlight of each of their days. When you wake up like this, every day is bound to be the best day ever. 

Related: Golden Retriever Fails at Playing 'Hide-n-Seek' in the Most Adorable Way

The caption says, "I can't explain how happy it makes me when she does this," and if Nala wrote her own caption about this video, I have a feeling it'd be pretty similar. It's like she's just sitting there waiting for him to move each morning, and the second their eyes meet, she sets up to blindly fall into the loving embrace of her human. It really just doesn't get much cuter than this. 

Love it or hate it, but routine is extremely important in not only our lives, but in our pets lives all the same. And many dog owners are often surprised to learn about the benefits a daily schedule actually offers. 

Aside from the the fact that a good routine contributes to your pups mental and physical wellbeing, they also ensure things like your dog eating on a schedule, which supports their metabolism and healthy digestion. 

A daily schedule also helps with potty training and ultimately keeps a dog “regular" while you're out on your walks (or runs). Plus, daily physical activity and playtime are simply essential! 

In terms of emotional health, a schedule offers your dog a sense of security from knowing what to expect as well. If you leave the house—your dog knows you’ll return. If the food bowl is empty—they know more food will be in the bowl at a certain time of day. Et cetera, et cetera. 

Plus, your dog’s playtime and bathroom habits remind us pet parents to get up and move around as well, whether it's to take work breaks or simply get our own mental health in line with a little physical activity. 

All these habits eventually lead to the end of the day, which is why good sleep habits for your dog means you will sleep better as well (without any unannounced wet-nosed wake-up calls). It just proves once more that every step that builds up these routines are just as important as the others. 

With all of this said, and while routine is still undeniably important, it’s also important to have a bit of flexibility. 

If not, your pup could develop anxiety if a change occurs. Do your best to maintain the “big picture” of your routine—whatever that means for you—and all will be well! And rest assured knowing that it’s usually okay to vary the specifics a little (like walking a little later on the weekends as opposed to the weekdays, for example). 

I will say this, though—if your routine consists of your pup practicing adorable trust falls with you every morning, you should keep that one as consistent as possible. As Nala proved, it's just the cutest thing ever.