Parade Pets

We all have a basic understanding of how genetics work. In the simplest terms, children inherit all kinds of things from their parents, including different features of their faces and the way they look. But it can still be pretty wild to see it in action, like when two parents' genetics combine to create a kid who looks nothing like either of them... or when they end up having a kid who looks identical to one of them. This doesn't just go for humans, either; animals often have offspring who look like carbon copies of their parent.

And now, one of those situations is blowing the minds of people on TikTok after one barn owner shared footage of her mare and foal together. They look so alike that it's almost unreal.

But seriously isn’t the snow magical? ❄️ #foal #fyp #horsetok #farm #horsesoftiktok #clacking

On Wednesday, January 17, @bennettequestrian shared this video on TikTok, showing off just how alike this mama and baby horse pair really are. She joked that this is a "copy/paste situation, and she's not wrong — as far as we can tell, these two horses are identical, down to the markings on their faces. 

And not only do they look the same, but they also stand the same way, which really makes it easy to see that this mama has basically created a clone of herself. Lucky baby, too, since her mom is such a beautiful horse.

Multiple viewers commented on how these two are twinning, with many sharing their own stories about something similar happening with their horses. One person wrote, "I had a paint mare who did copy and paste on her last baby boy! So fun and cool to see it." 

What exactly is it that makes these beautiful animals look so alike? It all comes down to the genetic process when breeding, of course, but the way that the color of a horse is identified is actually pretty interesting, according to the American Quarter Horse Journal.

First, there's the pigment, which is either red or black — all colors stem from one or the other. From there, if you can determine whether or not the horse carries the agouti gene, which affects color patterns. In a black horse, this means that pigment would only be seen in its mane, tail, ear tips, and legs (otherwise known as its points).

There are also several different color modifiers that will further contribute to the horse's color, like gray, champagne, cream, dun, and roan. 

There's so much at play when it comes to trying to predict what a foal will look like, but these copy/paste babies really are the coolest. 

Dogs are often very familiar with our routines. They have a keen sense of when it’s time to go for a walk and when it’s time to eat. They also notice our work schedules and get upset when we work late. Pups know that it’s time we should be spending with them.

When we aren’t giving them the attention they deserve, they have no trouble letting us know the error of our ways. Thankfully, taking a break for them is just as beneficial for us. Perhaps it’s something they inherently understand.

Check out this video from January 15 to see one St. Bernard's dramatic way of letting mom know it’s his time.

His hug at the end 🥺 #saintbernard #dogsoftiktok #tiktokpets #fyp #foryoupage

It must be tough to say no to such a handsome face! Midas (@saint.in.the.city) isn’t pleased with his mom because she had to work late. He knows it’s his time, and he wants her undivided attention. Instead of getting up from the couch, he places his front paws on the floor and starts stomping them back and forth. When mom asked him, “What’s wrong? With a glance, he communicates to her she knows what the problem is. Ha! They all have quite a way of conveying their needs. Fortunately, Mom understood his request and provided him with the attention he was looking for. After getting a few scratches on his chin, he rested his head on her shoulder, giving her a big sweet hug. What a big love bug! That's the perfect way to end a long day at the office.

Related: St. Bernard Worried About Being Left Behind on Camping Trip Is Such a Gem

According to ElleVet Sciences, dogs show us love in many ways. One way they connect to us is by making eye contact. Like Midas, they experience an oxytocin boost when we gaze into their eyes, just as we get one from them. They may also engage in physical contact, including petting, hugging, or leaning. Some will push us with their nose, or give us kisses to convey their affection. They might even bring us gifts, like their favorite toys, to show us just how much they care for and trust us. They let us know we’re part of the pack by choosing to sleep with us. It’s a symbol of trust and loyalty. They know we will protect them, and they want to protect us, too.

While occasionally working late may be necessary, dedicating time to our dogs is just as important, much like this mom showed us. No matter what else is happening, we are their whole world.

Puppies grow up very quickly. Their ability to survive on their own in just a few months is truly incredible, and the changes that happen as they develop are nothing short of miraculous. 

Even their human moms must make many adaptations as they develop and grow. It’s a bigger job than many would expect. Although, giving them up in the end might just be the toughest part.

Watch how dramatically these 4-week-old Golden Retriever puppies have changed in this video from January 13:

You all are not going to believe the changes in these puppies! And just remember – for as astonished, as we are, by what we see in their behavior and size, it’s even more astonishing what’s happening in their brains. it’s all about those puppy brains! 🤍 🐾 #brain #puppybrain #puppy #puppies

This loving mom looks so proud of her beautiful puppies! These gorgeous Goldens, bred ethically by @nicholberrygoldens, will soon embark on their journey as therapy dogs. In only 4 weeks, these tiny pups have changed so much. Instead of having their eyes closed while searching for mom to eat, they're now ready for "Drive-through milk bar service." Ha! These precious pups are even getting frequent pedicures, which should help them feel more comfortable with this procedure as they get older. This lively crew has already outgrown their whelping box and has been moved to a larger area. Now that they are bigger, they seem to enjoy these new digs.

Related: Litter of Golden Retriever Puppies Enjoying a Spa Day Is Giving Everyone the Feels

At only a few weeks old, some of these puppies have already figured out the designated spot to use for doing their business. Wow! That is so impressive. They are also doing enrichment activities to stimulate their brains and sniffing out new items like utensils, toys, and clothes. Although they may be young, they're each taking short individual walks with their human. They're also getting plenty of love and attention from the family, who are even wearing hats and hoodies to help them become comfortable with these sometimes frightening articles of clothing. 

These young pups are growing increasingly independent from their mom and now have teeth. This also means they’re experiencing new foods. Their mom is probably also grateful for this dietary promotion, particularly because there are a few things sharper than those tiny puppy fangs. One thing that hasn’t changed, their human reports is, “They still sleep a ton.” Those growing bodies and brains still need lots of rest.

While raising human children may require a village, it appears raising puppies requires one, too. Giving them such a wonderful start ensures they will have an exceptional life. These beautiful Goldens will undoubtedly bring joy wherever they go.

There's nothing better than witnessing love and ingenuity intersect. It's a constant recipe for success, if you ask me. Unstoppable! And we see this notion truly come to life in a recent video shared by @mylabrachildren on TikTok, where one family has crafted up a fancy wagon to pull their injured Labrador, Humphrey, ensuring that he can also get out of the house and enjoy a walk with his family like everyone else. 

Also, I'm not crying...I just have something irritating both my eyes. But really, this is as heartwarming as it gets. It's such a clear example of the unconditional love and insanely strong bonds that are shared between humans and our pets. 

Never give up on yiur dog. Humphrey may not be able to walk right now but he can still enjoy life 🎉 #mylabrachildren #labradoresretriversoftiktok #dogspftiktok #love

I have to assume Humphrey was once living his life wild and free, as all young dogs do, but we all know that each passing year takes a toll on our bodies one way or another. That doesn't mean that we should ever lose hope, though. In fact, not at all! There's always a way to find happiness; there's always an avenue to lead us wherever we want to be. Sometimes...it just takes a (super cool) wagon ride to get there.  

Related: Labrador Can't Contain His Excitement Over Giving Postal Worker a Holiday Card

Humphrey's story is one that resonates not only with pet owners who understand the challenges of caring for animals with specific needs, but really with anyone who appreciates the lengths folks will go to ensure the happiness and inclusion of their furry friends. He just looks so happy and content, doesn't he? Regardless of his issue, this adorable Labrador deserves to be out there with his family, and seeing him in action is such a treat. 

Our buddy Humphrey might not be mobile at the moment, but that wagon is taking him on more than some fun family walks—it's also helping guide his current road to recovery! Humphrey unfortunately had a bulging disk and underwent surgery last summer, but as we see, his resilience is all too apparent. He's been doing physical therapy and continues to get stronger by the day, and it goes without saying—it's incredible to see. 

You just can't keep a good dog down. 

At the end of the day, this heartwarming tale is a such a humbling example of the creativity and love that can flourish when we're faced with obstacles. We all deserve a seat at the table! Or...in Humphrey's case...a wagon bed on the walk. 

Either way—never give up, Humphrey! We're all rooting for you. 

Diving into the world of pet parenthood can be an overwhelming experience, to say the least. There's so much to know about making sure that your dog becomes a well mannered member of society — or at least of your household — that it makes sense that plenty of people choose to use a professional trainer to get the job done. Between potty training and making sure everyone is safe, happy, and well adjusted for the long term, there's a lot that owners have to know (and that dogs have to learn).

But even if you don't have the cash to shell out to a trainer, there's a lot you can learn for free online, and this TikTok video in particular is proving to be very helpful for new and old dog owners.

Happy to explain any of these in more depth - no hate to anyone who is unbothered by the first and third, it’s just not for me and my dogs and lifestyle. #dogsofttiktok#dogtraining#dogparks

These tips come to us by way of a professional dog trainer, who shared this video on her account, @ingridatlasandarlo, on Wednesday, January 17. Here, she's explaining the things she'll never do with her dogs, knowing what she does from her career, and while these rules do make sense, some of them are a bit controversial. 

She pointed out that she will never give her dogs rawhide, which leads to an important fact that many dog owners may not know: they present a choking and blockage risk, and there's always the chance that these treats could be contaminated, which is a risk to the dog's health and can cause digestive tract irritation.

Another thing she avoids is letting her dogs greet dogs that she doesn't know for their own safety, and to discourage unwanted leash behavior. 

Her most controversial take might be the first one, though. She doesn't allow her dogs to play at dog parks if any dogs or people who she doesn't know are there. But why?

While many people see dog parks as a great place to socialize their dogs, they also come with risks that some pet owners aren't willing to accept. 

According to one dog training website, dog parks often aren't recommended because of just how many factors are out of your control when your dog is loose around people and dogs you don't know. 

It can also be hard to reinforce the boundaries you set for your dog while they're playing at a dog park, and it can also lead to dogs passing illnesses around. 

For a safer method of socialization, setting up playdates with other dog owners you know can be a great idea, and a lot of peace of mind will come with it that makes it all worth it. There are plenty of other places to exercise your dog, too. 

In the end, how you choose to raise your dog is up to you — and there are a lot of different decisions along the way that will be personal to each dog and owner. 

No matter where you live in the United States, there's a good chance that you've been freezing for the past week. Even my usually mild home state of Georgia has been much, much colder than usual, with a windchill under zero a few days this week. I can only imagine how that must feel for animals at the different zoos around the country who have to live outdoors and aren't exactly able to put on their warmest socks and lounge by the fire. They have to be freezing! 

But plenty of the zoos — at least, the ones who take good care of their animals, anyway — have a protocol in place for this kind of weather, and one is sharing exactly what they do for their residents in a new TikTok video. 

Some 🥶 chilly 🥶 content! Get a behind-the-scenes look at how the keepers help keep the hippos happy and active when it’s too cold to go outside! In addition to extra attention, training sessions and swimming in one of the two indoor pools, the hippos also get extra enrichment! #winter #snowday #cincinnatizoo #animals #hippo #teamfiona #cincinnati

On Tuesday, January 16, the official TikTok account for the @cincinnatizoo shared how they managed to keep their hippos happy when it's too cold for them to go outside. Considering the fact that the Cincinnati, Ohio has seen both low temperatures and is expecting plenty of snowfall to round out the week, it's a good thing they have a plan in place for the larger animals at the zoo who aren't able to be outdoors!

One of the zookeepers' tricks for keeping the hippos entertained is making something called "lettuce confetti," or cutting lettuce up into small pieces and scattering it around. They get a snack and it keeps them busy.

They also snack in other creative ways, like using a puzzle feeder. They look like they're living it up — and they also look like they're warm and happy, which is the goal. 

As it turns out, the hippos featured in this video from the Cincinnati Zoo are actually famous hippos named Fiona, Tucker, and Fritz. 

In particular, Fiona herself is a star, and has been since the day she was born. As the zoo's website points out, she made headlines when she was born six weeks prematurely, and that meant that she was too small to stand and nurse. But thanks to the very dedicated workers at the zoo, Fiona survived and is still thriving today. 

In 2022, Fiona's brother, Fritz, was born, joining the family. And as for Tucker? He's a male hippo who was brought to the zoo in 2021 to be a companion to Fiona's mom, Bibi, and he is Fritz's father, 

is anyone else wishing we could watch a reality show about these hippos and their relationships, or is it just me? 

Some people have a job that requires them to be around adorable animals all day, every day. For some zookeepers, "all day, every day" is literal when a baby animal needs care.

On January 18, 2024, the TikTok account for the Australian Reptile Park (@AustReptilePark) shared a day-in-the-life video of one of their keepers whose job is currently focused on a baby wombat. Take a look!

Wilbur the wombat joey is loving his new life at home with Keeper Seleena! 💕 wombat zookeeper australia babyanimals australianreptilepark seeaustralia lovecentralcoast

In a video that's just over a minute and a half, we meet Wilbur, a wombat joey who is being cared for at the Australian Reptile Park

Related: Wombats Cuddle with Caretaker Just Like 2 Human Kids

Since the wombat is just a little baby, he requires a lot of attention and care, which he would typically receive from his wombat mom, but that's not possible in his case.

So, he has a surrogate mom caring for him, and she happens to be human. Keeper Seleena hangs with Wilbur all day and all night. And he follows her around like he would a mom.

She's been with him for a couple of months already; now, he's eight months old. Seleena shares that having a wombat at home to love and care for is fun but says it's also "extremely exhausting," which anyone who's parented a human child would understand.

"It's just like having a toddler at home running an absolute muck," the keeper shares in the video. But you can tell there is so much love between them.

"Wilbur the wombat joey is loving his new life at home with Keeper Seleena," the video's caption shares.

The plan for Wilbur is to stay with Seleena for a few more months before he goes into the transition stage to be re-released into the wild hopefully.

She shares that the best part about raising a wombat is seeing how fast he can run and his cool zoomies.

In the comments, people had a lot of love to share about this cute wombat and the incredible work Keeper Seleena is doing.

"I didn’t know I needed baby wombat zoomies in my life," admitted a commenter.

"If I had a womabt I would name him Bilbo Baggins," one person shared.

"How do you not just pick him up and kiss him all day?" questioned one viewer.

"Well, now I need a wombat," someone else shared.

Wombats are native to Australia, and there are three different wombat species: the common wombat, the northern hairy-nosed wombat, and the southern hairy-nosed wombat, according to Wired.

The publication says they weigh between 44 and 77 pounds when they're fully grown and can live between 15 to 20 years.

There are several other weird facts about this animal that makes it somewhat unique, including the fact it takes 14 days for them to digest their food, their poop is square-shaped, and they defend themselves by using their butt.

"One of the wombat's primary defenses is its toughened backside, which is mostly made of cartilage. When threatened, a wombat dives headfirst into a tunnel, blocking the entrance with its rump," Wired notes. "This sturdy rump and lack of a significant tail make it difficult for a predator to grab on."

Keeper Seleena is doing an amazing job, and it's wild how fast this cute wombat joey is growing.

Recovery and resilience are often synonymous, and one cute little rescue Beagle is currently learning this first hand. In this heartwarming video recently shared by @beaglefreedom on TikTok, we're introduced to Reggie, who unfortunately spent the majority of his life in a laboratory...until now. 

As we learn in this short but sweet feel-good clip, when laboratory survivor Beagles finally find their voice, it means they feel safe. And it's absolutely adorable, to say the least. He sort of looks surprised himself, doesn't he? Even he's shocked to be hearing what he's hearing. Did I do that?! Each howl is bound to provide a rush of warmth through your soul nonetheless. We're all so excited for Reggie!

Reggie found his bark after spending his life in a laboratory. He’s now learning how to be a dog, and be himself 🐶❤️ - #beagle #beagles #dog #dogs #dogtok #rescuedog #dogrescue #beaglepuppy #beaglesoftiktok #beaglelife #beagleboy #howl #beaglehowl #hound #hounddog #doglover #doggo #dogrescuecheck #dogrescuestory @Laurie Karlson

It's a bummer to think Reggie basically lived a life of silence, but the beauty is—that has clearly all changed! His newfound freedom and sense of security certainly assisted with this remarkable transformation, and I have a feeling he'll be howling at sirens and barking at strangers for many exciting years to come. Simply put...he's learning how to be a dog! And I have a feeling his story resonates with all of us one way or another.

Related: Beagle Playing with Farm Turkey Has Everybody Cracking Up

Whether he knows it or not, Reggie now gets to experience an entire new world of emotions, connections and comfort. I can only imagine how much he has to say! I'm sure he still has plenty of mental healing and adapting to do, but I have to assume the road ahead has never looked so bright. It's inspiring, really. We all need to find our voice eventually, right? I'd say this is as good of a place to start as any. Thanks, Reggie!

If you're looking for a happy, affectionate, low-maintenance pet, you're in the right place—Beagles are all of that and more. Honestly, these happy, active dogs are suitable for pretty much all family types (well, generally ones who are more on the active side), but keep in mind, they are known to need some fairly rigorous training in their early years. The good news is, they're typically fast learners. 

They're known to be needy, but in a fun and loving way. They just love their humans and want to spend as much time playing, exploring and getting into some occasional mischief as they can. It is worth noting that separation anxiety can be a real thing with these little lovers, but considering the fact that they're absolute cuddlebugs, I think that separation anxiety will be felt on both ends. 

Beagles are known to be exceptional escape artists as well, so someone should always have an eye on these adorable little goofballs. But all that really means is putting in a little extra effort to Beagle-proof your home (and probably your garden), right!? Hey, it's a small price to pay for the enormous amount of joy they'll provide. 

Barking is how all dogs communicate, right? Right. So it's always important to pay close attention to what Beagles may be telling you. Whether they feel hungry or just want attention, they are very vocal dogs...but also, isn't that why we're here!? These barks and howls are something to celebrate, not ignore. 

And really, it goes without saying—they're just cute! I've personally always been a huge fan of Beagles. They have so much personality and honestly, they're super intelligent. All in all, they're simply the perfect companion for folks who can handle all that personality. 

I'll tell you what, though, Reggie stole my heart just like everyone else. Here's to a lifetime barking, howling and endless love! Never stop singing, buddy. 

Watching the relationships that our pets build with other animals is one of the most rewarding parts of being a pet owner. It's been years, and I still freak out a little every time I catch my dog and cat cuddling (especially when it's in front of the fire on a cold night). The bonds that they form with each other are just as real as the ones they form with us, and it's so special to see it all happen, even when their favorite creature doesn't happen to live with us.

Case in point: These doggy love birds featured in a TikTok video that is making everyone all warm and fuzzy inside. This dog and his "girlfriend" might not live under the same roof, but it's obvious that just makes the time they do get to spend together even more special than it already is.

My gf is here!!! 🥰 stay tuned for more content of us dis week 🤍 #goldenretrieverpuppy #goldenpuppies #goldenretrieverlife #goofydogs #goofypuppies #dogsinlove #capecoddogs #puppiesinlove #goldenson #bennyandquincy #goldenretrievermoms #twopuppies #chewy #twogoldens #dogaffiliateprograms #boatingdog #dayinthelifeofgolden #havingagoldenretrieverbelike two goldens

One dog owner is documenting her Golden Retriever's life on a TikTok account, @bennythegoldennn, and in a video she shared recently, we get to see Benny's reaction to finding out that his girlfriend (a fellow Golden) is coming to stay with him for five nights. What a treat.

As soon as Benny hears the other dog's name, Quincy, he instantly perks up, and it's almost like he smiled a little wider when he heard how long she would be staying.

Later in the video, we get to see Benny and Quincy together, and they really do seem like a match made in heaven. They were running all over the house, chasing each other and playing together, and I'm not sure how anyone is going to have the heart to separate them when the five days are up. Dogs can definitely have best friends, and this is the perfect example of one of those relationships. 

There's a reason why Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world: thanks to their friendly personalities, they truly do make wonderful pets.

These dogs are so outgoing and affectionate that they make a great pet for anyone, including for a family with kids. They have tons of energy and love to exercise, so they can make a great companion for anyone who enjoys spending time exploring outdoors. If you're looking for a buddy to hang out with while you get your steps in, this is it! 

And according to the American Kennel Club, Golden Retrievers also keep that puppy-like playfulness about themselves for longer than other breeds do, so you'll have a youthful dog around for years to come. 

Sounds like a pretty great breed to consider if you're thinking about adding another member to the family! 

There are some animals, like cats, who are generally very good at keeping themselves clean — a true relief to anyone who may have had to face the unfortunate situation of giving their cat a bath, even just once. And then there are the animals who need a little help from humans to bathe properly, like dogs. Some love it, and some really, really make their feelings clear that they hate it, but just like with humans, it's one of those things that simply has to be done.

While bathing a chicken may sound like a tough task for even the most experienced owner, some of these feathered friends actually enjoy having their own little spa-like experience. That includes the adorable chicken in this video who's getting her first bath and seems to be loving every second of it. 

Stormys first bath 🛁🐔🤕 #chicken #bath #injury #stormy

On Tuesday, January 16, one chicken owner, @lifewithgoldens7, shared what happened when he decided to give his bird her very first bath to help clean her up a bit. He was also hoping that it would help soothe her legs, since she was battling Marek's disease, which usually paralyzes a chicken's legs and can be very deadly. She'd been living inside so she could recover and stay separated from the rest of the chickens, and that meant that she got to enjoy a bath.

While the backyard chicken, whose name is Stormy, wasn't sure about it at first, she quickly learned that this was about to be a relaxing experience. This girl was loving it! 

Stormy's been through a lot, and her owner has been documenting her illness daily on TikTok. After a visit to the vet, Stormy's been taking antibiotics and hanging out inside with her owner's two Golden Retrievers, snuggling up in bed and eating home cooked meals. At this point, he's hoping that she will make a full recovery.

It seems like it's becoming more and more common for people to adopt chickens as pets — either allowing them to live inside the home, or to live in the backyard. 

There are a few things you should know first before embarking on this adventure, though, as PetMD has pointed out. Backyard chickens aren't legal everywhere, so you'll want to check on your local laws (and HOA bylaws) before adopting.  

You'll also want to remember that the chicken has a long lifespan — they could end up living in or out of your house for as long as 15 years or more! And in that time, they will need a lot, including vet care, food, shelter, and plenty of room to roam around and enjoy their lives.

If you're up for the challenge, chickens can make adorable pets (not to mention a great source of eggs during their laying years). They can be a bit of work, but totally worth the fun and friendship they bring, too. 

Cruise ships might not be for everyone, but this recent video shared by Royal Caribbean certainly caught my attention (along with thousands and thousands of others) and for good reason. The reason? Well, it comes in the form of an adorable Golden Retriever pup named Rover, who is actually the ship's official Chief Dog Officer. 

Yes, you read that correctly! Rover is the designated "family dog" for both the crew and guests aboard Icon of the Seas, and by the looks of this video, she's about as cute as it gets. While her role seems simple and straightforward enough (bring joy and happiness to fellow crew members and guests), I'd have to assume her plate is plenty full—figuratively and literally. 

Part 9: Living on #IconoftheSeas 🐾 Meet Rover, Chief Dog Officer and family dog on board for Icon’s crew. Follow ChiefDogRover on Instagram to keep up with her adventures! @Erica From America #RoyalCaribbean #BTS #Cruise

I already know that Rover is the perfect candidate for the position, though, and she clearly seems to love it. The way she confidently, yet playfully prances around the ship alongside her Chief of Staff, Allison says more than any words ever could. She basically gets an endless amount of attention every day, and in turn, the guests and staff do receive endless joy and happiness. It's an absolute win-win, if you ask me. Brilliant!

Related: Golden Retriever Caught on Camera Stealing Dad's Clothes Is a Total Riot

Isn't it amazing how the simple presence of a dog can truly brighten up the darkest days? It's magical. Stressed at work? Pet a dog. Relationship problems? Pet a dog. This, that and the other? Pet a dog. It works every time! You know what...I'm just going to say it! Even though Rover hasn't officially started yet, I think she deserves a raise. There, I said it. And I meant it!

It's no surprise that amongst all the comments on the post above, a common theme was, "Where does she go to the bathroom?" It's a fair enough question, but it's also a question that opens up a world of other questions, too. While it's not necessarily common for dogs to live on cruise ships (in fact, most have pretty strict no-pet policies), it's certainly not impossible, either. 

The most important thing to know are the general requirements for bringing a dog on a cruise ship. For instance, most cruise lines that allow dogs ask that they have up-to-date rabies vaccinations, possess a microchip for identification purposes, obtain a current health certificate from a veterinarian, be at least 6 months old and most importantly, aren't aggressive—at all. 

Additionally, you must secure a pet-friendly cabin after confirming that your dog satisfies the above criteria. Thankfully, these cabins are usually situated on the ship's lower decks and often feature a small exercise area for dogs.

You want to make sure you bring more than enough dog food with you as well, and as we lightly mentioned, promptly picking up after your dog is a no-brainer. It also never hurts to inquire with the cruise line about any unique pet amenities or activities, which will most likely benefit you and your furry, four-legged friend all the same.

Embarking on a cruise with your dog can definitely be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but adequate preparation is extremely necessary. By accepting and following the requirements and restrictions set by your desired cruise line, you can ensure the safety and enjoyment of your dog...and of course, yourself.

Hey, if all else fails, just hop aboard the Icon of the Seas and play with Rover for a few days! I understand she's a very important person around those parts, but something tells me she'll happily pencil in some time for scratches and cuddles. 

Which reminds me...about that raise...

When we welcome a baby into the world, we hope our furry babies will accept and love them, too. Of course, we never really know what to expect, and so many times, we're still surprised.

On January 6, TikTok user Katrina Aurora Taylor (@katrinaaurorataylor) shared a video of how her baby and two dogs get along, and it's so cute. Take a look!

When your baby wants a treat too 😂

In a short 17-second video, we're introduced to Katrina's baby and her two dogs. And her baby has completely fit right in.

Related: Baby Having ‘First’ Milestones with Golden Retriever Bestie Is the Start of a Beautiful Friendship

Having dog siblings is fun to grow up with, and this little one will have so many videos, photos, and memories to look back on when he's older. And this clip will probably become one of their favorites.

In the video, Katrina is offering her two sweet dogs a treat. She reminded her one dog that she needed to "sit" before she got the treat. But when mom shared the reminder, the two dogs sat, and her son, Jackson, did.

"Jackson, did you sit too?" she asked, surprised he was happy to be one of the pack.

Of course, she made sure to give her little one a treat, as well.

"When your baby wants a treat too," the video's caption shares. And people in the comment section shared their reactions to this cute clip.

"Not the baby," one person wrote.

"His lil squat!!!! So proud of the baby boy," another shared.

"Dying at the 'good boy' to the baby," wrote someone else.

"You can tell this baby has such a loving home and is being taught to have empathy, compassion, and how to appreciate his truly special connection to animals," another viewer shared. "So beautiful! Parents doing such an awesome job!"

"There’s nothing sweeter than a child and dog who are best friends. But as magical as that relationship may be, it doesn’t come naturally," the American Kennel Club shares.

It's important always to supervise your dog and children together, which is especially important when your kids are still young, the organization notes.

"When you can’t supervise your dog, the safest option is to place them in a child-free safe area like their crate," they add. "Give them a chew toy or food-releasing puzzle toy to keep them occupied and happy. Your dog shouldn’t see this as a punishment but rather some quiet time alone."

Of course, along with teaching your dogs to be respectful, the same must happen for our kids, too. Setting ground rules like never hugging or teasing dogs or pulling or tugging on them is important for building bonds and safety.

It looks like these two dogs are beautifully bonded to this sweet baby and that they're all having a great time together.

The Brevard Zoo recently received some exciting news, as two new baby cotton-top tamarin monkeys have officially been brought into the world as Florida's newest residents. As we learn in this heartwarming clip shared by the Today Show, the mother, Luna is going to have her hands full for the next couple weeks raising these adorably messy-haired baby monkeys. 

This news is extra exciting considering the fact that cotton-top tamarins are a critically endangered species, but Luna is clearly fighting to change that. Aside from Luna, the two new babies will be joining their three brothers and father, Cricket, which means they might be upgrading to a mini van sooner than later. That's a full house! 

The Brevard Zoo in Florida just received a very special delivery! Luna, their cotton-top tamarin monkey, just gave birth to two babies! This is extra special for the zoo, as cotton-top tamarins are critically endangered. #TODAYShow

The clip assures us that Luna, Cricket and the three brothers have been taking great care of their newest family members, which I love to hear. It's a family affair. All hands on deck! The babies need some time to acclimate, however, so we won't know their sexes until they're ready to take on the world.

Really, though, how adorable are these little guys? The best part is, when they grow up, they're going to have some pretty distinct features, to say the least. I could literally just sit here and talk about their hair all day. It's like the perfect blend of Albert Einstein and 80s metal. Personally, I'm a huge fan. I wish I could get my hair to do that! It's just one of the features that make these monkeys so uniquely cool. 

Cotton-top tamarins certainly are unique little creatures. From their funny features to their social behavior; ways of communicating to defense mechanisms, and so much more...there's a lot more to these monkeys than meets the eye. And that's honestly saying a lot.

For instance, in their world, only the dominant male and female will reproduce. I just thought that was pretty interesting. They live in family groups, and only the dominant male and female at the core of these groups will breed. The other adults? Well, they're reproductively suppressed, which helps prevent inbreeding.

And since I just can't help myself, I have to mention their hair again—it stands on end when they get excited, which is as hilarious as it is adorable. When they’re alarmed or excited, their distinguished white fur will raise in a effort to make themselves look bigger and scarier. If I ever saw this happen in the wild, I don't know if I'd laugh or run away...but probably both. 

They're highly territorial animals as well, and have quite a sophisticated system to defend their areas. Female Tamarins will often apply their scent to ward off any intruders, while males on the other hand will typically resort to vocal threats, physical aggression, (more hair-raising), and at times, even sticking out their tongue. 

Additionally, they’ll also use their impressive communication skills to ensure all members of the troop are in the know.

That said, as territorial as they can be when threatened by outsiders, these little monkeys are actually super friendly and social. In fact, most live in groups of up to 13 individuals and they can often be seen grooming one another, running their claws through each other’s fur, and using their teeth, lips and tongue to keep each other clean (and their hairdos fresh).

It's actually super common for cotton-top tamarin moms to birth twins, so it's fair to assume that might be the case with Luna and her new babies, but only time will tell. We're all excited either way and can't wait to see these babies thrive! 

When we think birds, most of us also think "gone south for the winter." It's warm, there's plenty of food, and they're probably a little better off down there while we're up here in the north freezing our tail feathers off!

While many species do migrate south for the winter, there are some birds that choose to stay put. On Monday, January 16th, a wildlife photographer showed off just what he does to keep them healthy while capturing some epic shots:

Birds in the snow ❄️ 1, 2, 3 or 4? 😍 Finally this Monday it snowed for the first time this winter. So I immediately went out and tried to photograph some birds 📸. Species: Starling, Longtailed Tit, Bluetit You can still order my 2024 wildlife calendar through the link in my bio! 🥰 (There are only a few left) Sony Alpha 1 | 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS ii #photoshoot #snow #birds #photographer

Gamander Lopez is a very talented wildlife photographer. I'm sure those birdies really appreciate him!

Related: Moment Spider Monkey in the Wild Recognizes Photographer After 2 Years Is Incredible

In the video, Lopez sets out a bird feeder full of what looks like bran flakes. That might seem odd, but high-fiber, low-sugar cereals like bran flakes and Cheerios are actually a perfectly fine treat for birds. Using the cereal, he captures pictures of several different birds, including:

1. Long-tailed tits (the first birds in the video) 
2. Eurasian blue-tits (the second birds)
3. Starlings (the last birds)

Lopez stated in the comments that he lives in Germany, so the birds in his video may look a little different than birds we're used to seeing in the northern US, even though they go by the same name. Despite the fact that there's a long-lensed camera in their faces, the birds don't seem to care: they're more focused on their tasty treats. However, Lopez does say in a different comment that he was out there for 4 whole hours!

Not every bird flies south for the winter. The ones that don't survive mostly on fallen seeds and hidden treats in piles of leaves, and some will eat insects to stay alive. Whatever the case may be, food is scarce, and that can be scary, especially as high speed winds and heavy snow can destroy their nests. 

If you can, you should always put out a bird feeder in the winter. You'll likely get more consistent visitors than you would in the other seasons, when they have other sources to forage from. It's cool to see, as the video shows us, but it can also be a little bird's saving grace. Along with a feeder, providing a heated bird bath will help birds stay warm!

Bird feeder owners usually share a common enemy: squirrels. It's understandable; they're big, they're greedy, and they will scare off the birds. However, I'd like to point out that squirrels are also a blessing: they're messy eaters. They'll send seeds flying to the ground, which is perfect for ground-foraging birds. Additionally, squirrels tend to drop food from their cheek pouches on their way back to their nests: another opportunity for ground-foraging birds to get in on the action. Plus, they need to eat, too!

If you're concerned about a squirrel breaking your hanging feeder, you can try setting in on a flat surface. That way, it doesn't support the weight of the squirrel and subsequently crack under the pressure. 

Even if you're not an excellent wildlife photographer like Gamander Lopez, please consider feeding some birds this winter. They'll thank you!

A firefighter in Utah is being hailed as a hero after rescuing a stranded dog who was stuck in an icy pond.

According to ABC World News, a family dog was spotted in great danger, and the quick action of the community made all the difference. Take a look.

In Clearfield, Utah, a #firefighter braved the freezing temperatures of a frozen #pond after a #dog fell through the ice and into the frigid waters. #DavidMuir shares the heartwarming story, AmericaStrong. #WorldNewsTonight #News #ABCNews #rescue #dogsoftiktok

In Clearfield, Utah, firefighters with the North Davis Fire District braved freezing water temperatures to help a dog in need.

Related: Good Samaritan Treats Stray Rescue Dog To Yummy Meal Before Bringing Him to the Shelter

In a TikTok news video, ABC World News highlighted a freezing rescue by firefighter Logan Hadley, who stepped up.

"At Steve Pond in Clearfield, Utah, just outside Salt Lake City, North Davis District firefighter Logan Hadley determined to rescue one family's dog named Bob," the news station reported.

In the video, we can see a black dog stuck in the frozen water. He doesn't seem to be able to get up and out of the water, and the longer the dog is stuck in there, the more dangerous things become for Bob.

The local fire department was called, and Hadley and several other firefighters from the unit rushed to the scene and knew they had to jump in to help.

In the clip, we can see the intricate rig the firefighters put together, which allowed Hadley to inch closer to Bob with less risk of falling into the water himself.

"Bob the dog loves the water, but the ice shelf prevented him from being able to get out after his polar plunge," North Davis Fire District wrote on Facebook, also sharing the video of the rescue.

"Please be safe with your pets and children as ice conditions are still not as safe as we’d like them to be," the message continued.

"Firefighter Logan did a fantastic job today helping Bob. The rest of 'B' shift who you can’t see on camera are on the bank making sure Logan and Bob remain safe."

In the comments, people hailed the firefighter for his brave rescue and safe return of Bob.

"God bless all animals," one person wrote. "May they always be happy and protected."

"Heroes. Great, everyone is good," someone else shared.

"Poor baby hurts my heart," someone else wrote. "Thank you so much."

According to the Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota, frozen bodies of water can pose a serious danger to dogs.

"Frozen lakes, ponds, and other bodies of water pose many dangerous hazards for you and your dog. Falling through ice can cause hypothermia, organ damage, or drowning," the organization shares.

"Additionally, ice can cut skin, cause ice burn or frostbite, and cause serious injuries due to slipping and falling."

There are a few things dog parents should do when they're around frozen water, including using a leash to prevent your pup from going onto the ice unsupervised and making sure the ice is actually frozen enough to drive a snowmobile on. 

The Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota also says dog parents should avoid unsafe areas, including "dark, slushy, cracked, or seamed ice."

And, when in doubt about the safety of the frozen water, it's always better to err on the side of caution and avoid it.

We're glad Bob is okay and thankful for the North Davis Fire Department firefighters.

A donkey is not a pet most people would consider having. They kin of get a bad rap: everyone says they're loud, they smell, and they have a kin of rude nickname. Also, Eeyore. He's so sad!

On Monday, January 15th, one donkey found himself in need of a snack, and he only knew one way to get mom to listen:

Full time treat dispenser at tour service Henry! #fyp #boggsfunnyfarm #fypシ #henry #donkey #donkeyoftiktok #treats #dumor

Boggs Funny Farm is one of my favorite accounts on TikTok, and I have to be honest: it's because of Henry. I just love a dramatic donkey. Owning a donkey is something I've dreamed of forever!

Related: Donkey's Jealousy Over Mom Giving the Dog Attention Is Priceless

Henry has been with Boggs Funny Farm since he was a baby. Since joining TikTok in 2020, Henry and the rest of the animals at Boggs have amassed over 300,000 followers because of their antics. All of the animals on the farm live together in (somewhat) perfect harmony, though if someone is going to disturb the peace, it's usually Henry. 

He's a mini donkey, meaning he'll get to be about 3 feet tall and as heavy as 450 pounds. If he keeps begging for treats like this, he'll definitely get up there!

Farm animals are not any less needy just because they live outside. In fact, if we compare a donkey to a typical house cat, most farmers will tell you that donkeys are much needier. When they are needier, they're also much louder about it. Cats meow, and a meow can be loud, but donkeys honk and have way bigger lungs!

Donkeys should generally be kept with other animals and never by themselves. They're very social creatures that like to have companions to watch and play with. A lonely donkey might feel threatened, especially if the rest of the farm is quiet, which can lead to aggression. A lonely donkey exhibits symptoms like:

1. Lack of appetite
2. Lethargy
3. Biting/stomping/kicking
4. Excessive honking

Typically, this can be remedied by finding your donkey a friend, and it doesn't always have to be another donkey. They're known to get along well with cows, dogs, and even goats! Another donkey is definitely the best choice, but two donkeys can be a lot. 

If you do have a lone donkey, you better be prepared to spend absurd amounts of time with it so it doesn't get upset. You hear how loud Henry's honking, and he's got tons of friends!

If you want to win a donkey's heart, go through their stomach. They spend most of the day grazing on grass, hay, and some pellets for extra vitamins and minerals. That doesn't mean you can't spice things up with some treats, like:

1. Alfalfa balls
2. Carrots (donkeys love a good crunch)
3. Apples 
4. Pears
5. Bananas (peel and all!)

It's best to give donkeys fresh foods that aren't processed at all and have a low sugar content. Unfortunately, donkeys are prone to obesity, and high-sugar snacks increase the risk. While sweet treats like fresh fruits are okay, try to limit them to once or twice a month. Always steer clear of processed sweets like candies, donuts, leftover bread, etc. Henry may be hungry, but he's well taken care of!

Wintertime is here, and that means bundling up. While you're putting on your coat an boots before you head out for the day, you should be keeping in mind that your fur baby is probably going to be cold, too!

On Wednesday, January 17th, we got to see a prepared dog mom and her Basset Hound out for a walk. He's warm as can be in his cute coat and booties:

Giant puppy Leo Winston McRib clomps along in his boots, and then takes it off-road P.s.- say hi to Leo, and I’ll tell him! He loves hearing from his friends ❤️🐶❤️ #basset #hound #bassetlover #bassetlife #bassethound #bassethounds #bassetlove #doglover #doglife #dogventures #fyp #foryou #foryoupage

Leo Winston McRib (a regal name if I've ever heard one, for real) could clomp around for hours. No frosty paws here!

Related: Basset Hound Is Convinced New Corgi Puppy Is 'Her Baby'

Leo is a bit of a drama king, as the rest of this TikTok page documents very thoroughly, but he's amazing. He seems to be having the time of his life walking around in the snow, and other dogs should take notes. If you want to go have fun outside in the winter, you should be wearing booties! Stop trying to cause an international uproar every time we try to put them on your feet!

Listen, some dogs are meant to be out in the cold. Fluffy, tall, double coated dogs with thick paw pads and enough fur to knit a thousand sweaters. Basset hounds, however, are shorthaired, low to the ground, and stocky. Not to mention that their ears and jowls basically touch the ground...

Basset hounds hail from France and can be traced back as far as the 6th century, when they were primarily used for hunting rabbits. Don't let their shortness fool you: at full-speed, a Basset Hound can run up to 10 miles per hour. It's not necessarily the speediest breed of all time, but they're fast enough to be good hunting companions, and more than that, they're excellent scent hounds. 

Basset hounds were typically kept in regions of France that didn't experience too much snowfall, so they weren't bred to need to be used to it. Instead, they were bred with their scenting abilities in mind: they're low to the ground so their noses can track prey easier. If you want a fluffy, hardy outdoor French breed, the Great Pyrenees is for you!

Because they weren't bred for the snow, Basset hounds need some more help in the winter. To keep the snow from making them ache, you should bundle them up in booties and a coat that covers up their underbelly. Some Basset hound parents also like to "put their ears up" by literally putting them in a bun - don't do that. Instead, invest in a coat with a "hood" that you can tuck their ears into. Tying your dog's ears up can be painful and it allows dirt, water, an other debris to enter the ear more easily. 

Luckily, Basset hounds are pretty easygoing dogs that adapt well to wearing clothes. If you're ready to try putting booties on your Basset hound, try:

1. Training them with their shoes when they're young if you can.
2. Using cloth or fleece line booties instead of silicone ones.
1. If you have to use silicone ones, try putting "socks" on first. 
3. Giving them treats while you're putting them on.
4. Putting them on and immediately transitioning into playtime or a scent exercise to distract them.
5. Making sure the dog's nails are clipped at that the boots are the right size. 

So long as you're smart about it, a Basset hound should have no problems adapting to wearing their shoes. Leo certainly doesn't!

Maine Coons are incredible cats. They start out as teeny-tiny kittens and blossom into these giant, lovable little beasts! There's truly nothing better - except, apparently, a "rare" one. 

On Friday, January 13th, one woman shared a video of her rare Maine Coon, and it's everything we could ever want:

We always wanted a polydactyl black smoke Maine Coon kitten, but we were not able to find one until our Maine Coon queen, Fiona, had one. The search is over; she stays with us.#MaineCoonMagic #mainecoonlovers #catlife #virall #catstiktok #kitten #catstiktok #kitten #mainecooncat #catslapping #mainecoonkitten #polydactylcat

This kitten from @sweetgiantmaincoons is unfortunately not for sale - the owners of the cattery said in the caption that she's staying with them. I'm jealous!

Related: Maine Coon Cat 'Making Biscuits' with His Big Paws Has Everyone In Awe

According to the owners of this Maine Coon cattery, they'd been on the hunt for a polydactyl Maine Coon for a long time, but they've never been able to find one. At least, not until one of their own had one. That's the very definition of, "if I want something done, I have to do it myself!"

The kitten in this video doesn't have a name yet, and she's not for sale, so we'll get to watch her growth journey in real-time on social media. I must say, I'm not mad about that!

Polydactyly is a condition that causes something to be born with more than 5 fingers or toes. Typically, it only occurs on one foot: with this kitten, it looks like its front right paw is the affected one. In some cases, it can occur on two or all limbs, but that's even rarer than just having one. 

There's no concrete evidence to suggest a direct cause for polydactyly. Most research states that the condition is usually genetic: someone with two polydactyl parents will typically be polydactyl themself. Someone with one polydactyl parent has a 50% chance of inheriting the condition. Punnett squares are awesome!

However, when it's not hereditary, it seems to happen at random and not as a result of environmental factors. It's a genetic mutation, so most likely, that recessive gene is somewhere in the polydactyl's lineage, even if you weren't aware. There are no links between polydactyly and inbreeding or unethical breeding practices. 

Any abnormalities with our pets can be concerning, especially for new parents who aren't looking for it. If you find yourself adopting a polydactyl kitten, you can rest easy knowing that most of them will live well into adulthood. Most of the time, it's just an extra finger or toe and has no serious ramifications. It won't impede their ability to run, walk, eat, or play. In fact, the reality is that they just have an extra claw to scratch you with!

The severity of the condition can vary: some only have a tiny extra nub, while others are born with an entire extra digit that has a full nail and all. The larger it is, the more difficulty the polydactyl will have when walking. That's especially true if they're wearing shoes, but cats like the one in this video typically don't have that problem. If the condition is really severe, there are surgeries to correct it. 

Other than an extra toe, the kitten from this Maine Coon cattery seems to be doing just fine. I'm happy she's already got a loving home!