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50 Outlandish Escapades Of Pets Who Somewhat Succeeded In Stealing Their Owner’s Food (New Pics) | Bored PandaModal closeDialog closeFacebookMessenger radialTwitter xWhatsappPinterest shareMail shareDialog closeDialog closeFacebookFacebookAdd post form topTooltip closeAdd post form topDialog closeFacebook sharePinterest shareTwitter shareOpen list commentsVote arrow upVote arrow downOpen list commentsCheckmarkShare iconCheckmarkShare iconShare iconAdd photo commentsDotsRound attentionVote comment upVote comment downArrow down menuModal closeShare iconAdd photo commentsDotsRound attentionVote comment upVote comment downArrow down menuShare iconAdd photo commentsDotsRound attentionVote comment upVote comment downArrow down menuShare iconAdd photo commentsDotsRound attentionVote comment upVote comment downArrow down menuShare iconAdd photo commentsDotsRound attentionVote comment upVote comment downArrow down menuShare iconAdd photo commentsDotsRound attentionVote comment upVote comment 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50 Outlandish Escapades Of Pets Who Somewhat Succeeded In Stealing Their Owner’s Food (New Pics)

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No matter how well-fed our furry friends are, there’s something irresistible about the sight (or smell) of food that isn’t theirs. Whether it’s a sneaky swipe from the counter or a bold grab from your plate, pets have a way of turning into tiny bandits when they think no one’s watching.

But as it turns out, they’re not as slick as they think! We’ve gathered a collection of hilarious moments where these four-legged thieves were caught in the act, with guilt written all over their adorable faces.

Check out the pics below and don’t miss our chat with pet behavior consultant Erica Peachey, who explains why animals resort to stealing food and what we can do about it!

This post may include affiliate links.

Cracked The Case On The Missing Bagel

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my_life_with_dogs Report

Nothing to see here, move on

My Rat Fou Fou Is Trying To Steal My Cinnamon Roll

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I see rodents, I upvote. They're so cute! 🥰❤️

Picture this: you’re preparing dinner, setting the table, and putting out the food. You step away for just a moment, and when you return, something’s missing from your plate. If you have pets, you probably know exactly who the culprit is.

Many pet owners have caught their animals in the act, noticing the satisfied look on their faces after sneaking a bite. While it might seem like they’re being mischievous, that’s not exactly what’s going on.

As Erica Poachey, a pet behavior consultant and animal training instructor, told Bored Panda, pets don’t really understand what stealing is. “Food is there, and if no one is actually eating it, it’s available,” she explains. “‘Stealing’ is our interpretation. We know the food wasn’t meant for them, but they don’t know that.”

It’s His Now

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Mine!!! No gib back!

Evidence Of Guilt "On The Face"

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"What do you mean you know it was me? Where's your evidence"

Likewise, stealing food doesn’t necessarily mean your pet is underfed or starving at that moment. Animals, just like humans, like delicious things. “It’s the same reason I eat chocolate and cake even after a meal—it tastes good and gives a nice feeling,” says Poachey. She also points out that the thrill of “hunting” for food can be part of the fun, turning the act of finding something to eat into a rewarding experience for them.

I Want To Apologize To Our Neighbors Who Are Missing A Rack Of Ribs. Our Dog Escaped Through The Fence And Came Back An Hour Later With This

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Small dog with big ambitions

Meet Gody

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The first pic looks like a thumbnail for a real-crime-show 🤣

The hunting impulse in animals is often triggered by their sense of smell. For dogs, for example, smelling is their primary sense. While the human brain is dominated by a large visual cortex, the dog’s brain is ruled by its olfactory cortex. To put this in perspective, a dog has up to 300 million olfactory receptors in its nose, compared to just 5 million in humans. Even domestic cats have around 200 million odor sensors, giving them a sense of smell about fourteen times stronger than ours.

Egg Thief

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Have seen it before, but I just love that picture of the busted cat ^^

"Is This Cake Batter?!" Dunks Entire Head In

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Senegal parrot =))) they are amazing birds, with great personality

The Side Eye. I Wouldn't Have Suspected Anything Had Happened If I Hadn't Seen The Noodle Hanging From His Face

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😅 🤷🏽

Smells provide clues about what might taste good. Just as the aroma of coffee in the morning wakes you up or the scent of pancakes pulls you into the kitchen, imagine what it’s like for your pets every time you cook something like chicken. With their powerful noses and hundreds of millions of receptors, it’s no wonder they might be tempted to have some, even if you hadn’t planned on sharing.

That said, these strong smell abilities don’t always lead to action. Depending on their personality or training, some pets are pickier eaters, while others might rummage through the garbage if given the chance.

"Human, I’ve Done Things, Waffle Things"

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He's definitely proud of it. :D

I Caught A Papaya Thief

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How to check if your fruit is ready for consumption; place cat nearby

Be Aware Of This Cheese Cheddar Robber. His Last Sighting Was In Glasgow, Central Scotland. He’s Been Stealing Cheesy Cheddars Out Of The Pockets. Keep Your Cheesy Cheddars In A Safe Place

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I'm off out to buy some cheesy cheddars & book a train to Glasgow 🐀

Even the breed of your pet can be a factor in whether they’re more likely to steal food. “It’s known that certain dogs, like Labradors and Beagles, are more inclined towards hunger,” says Poachey.

She also notes that size matters: “Bigger dogs are more likely to steal—they tend to eat more and can easily reach work surfaces.” Habit plays a role as well. “A dog who learns that tasty food is occasionally available will search harder the next time,” Poachey adds.

Who Did It? Own Up

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This kitty is innocent of all charges. You have no proof

He Stole A Pancake

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His eyes are not only bigger than his belly but him too

Pizza Thief

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So that's what the little flaps in pizza boxes are really for

Cats, on the other hand, are much more selective when it comes to food because they have specific dietary needs as carnivores, unlike omnivores. “They’re usually only interested in something that appeals to them, typically meat, but some have broader tastes,” says Poachey. “And of course, cats can get into just about anywhere.”

Cats are also naturally designed to eat little and often. “So, if we’re only feeding them twice a day, they’re likely to go looking for something to munch on between meals,” she adds.

Cute Little Thief

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Thieffffffff

Everyone, This Is Kiki, The Dog, Trying To Steal Pizza From Me

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I'm guessing you lost the battle this time

Someone Got Into The Spaghetti Bolognese

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Gee, how can you tell?

Punishing animals for stealing food, even when you’re really frustrated, isn’t the right way to handle the situation. “Any punishment will have side effects, no matter the context,” says Poachey. “Quick fixes that involve something aversive when an animal does something we don’t like won’t work and can increase the risk of other issues—like a lack of trust, food guarding, fearfulness, and more.”

The Grocery Thief

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ours once stole chinese cabbage

Steal A Bite Of Grandma's Chinese Cabbage

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i'm simple. i see cute rabbit, i upvote.

No Trick Is Too Dirty When It Comes To Cake

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Getting hold of cake is worth the risk

Additionally, punishing pets for eating food can leave them confused. “If they’ve already eaten and we get angry, they’re unlikely to connect the two actions,” Poachey explains. “‘Looking guilty’ is usually just ‘looking frightened.’ They’ve eaten the food and enjoyed it, so why would they associate your anger with something they found pleasurable?”

“If they still have the food and we try to take it away, they don’t understand. They’re likely to become defensive—how else can they react? Then we end up with an animal who’s learning to guard what they see as important from us.”

My Husband Caught Our Cat Stealing Our Son's Chicken Nugget

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sharing is caring :-)

I Came Home To This Little Bastard Bloated Because He Ate 3/4 Of A Costco Pizza By Knocking It Off The Counter

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but not the crust

Caught My Cat Eating My Soup While I Was On The Phone. It's Been More Than 10 Years That I Have To Pay Attention To Him Every Time I Eat. He Never Gives Up. I Love Him

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I don't think he appreciated being interrupted!! 😾

So what should you do instead? “The quick answer,” says Poachey, “is to not leave food where your pet can reach it. If you don’t want your pet to get it, it’s your responsibility to make sure that doesn’t happen.”

It’s also important to remember that many foods we eat can be highly dangerous for animals—like chocolate, raisins, bones, and certain nuts.

“Teach your pet that it’s rewarding to come to you, to be with you, and to respond to you. Be someone they enjoy being around.” While these tips can certainly help, Poachey advises not to rely on them completely. What works for some pets might not work for others, and sometimes there could be underlying issues. When in doubt, it’s always best to consult a professional.

Do You Think He’s Guilty?

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he didn't do it, I did

He Stole The Baguette From The Table

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Size is not a factor. The fact that this baguette was once bigger than him doesn't stop him for a second.

Left The Pot Of Spaghetti Alone For A Few Minutes And Caught Him Red-Handed

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Hope he didn't burn his paws

Momo Decided To Un-Decorate The Gingerbread House

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Sorry, can't blame her, it looks yummy

Cheeseburger Thief Caught Red-Handed

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Falsely accused. I don't see a cheeseburger anywhere!

Caught Red-Handed

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That face is daring you to try to get it back and warning you that you don't stand a chance

I Turned Away For 2 Seconds And We Found Him With His Face Dipped In Our Nacho Cheese

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It's nacho sauce anymore.... it's his.

The Crime, The Criminal, And The Evidence

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And I'll do it again!

Why Is He Like This? Yes, He Knows He’s Not Allowed On The Counters. He Just Doesn’t Care. Corn Is Life

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It's CORN

My Dog Almost Gave Me A Heart Attack Today. I Thought She Attacked Our Other Dog Outside And Had Blood All Over Her Face. Then I Saw A Seed And Realized She Got Into The Tomatoes

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Too happy for that to be blood.

Putting His Entire Foot In My Coffee To Lick My Bowl Clean. He Could Have Just Gone A Few Inches To His Right

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ah! The human put a foot warmer in front of my food bowl

Potato Bandit Strikes Again

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My potato

This Sweet Tooth Stole A Vein Worm And Was Caught

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A what worm?

Uncle Rico Found A New Way To Tell Me To Feed Him. He Takes Food From The Kitchen Counter And Leaves It Next To Me In Bed While I Sleep

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Looks like uncle is trying to feed, not be fed.

I Can't Even Make Dinner In Peace

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Accept it as a compliment to your cooking.

Freaking Kevin

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Kevin is ripped!

Not So Sneakily Licking Sushi

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Quality control!!

He's Like, "Chill Guys, I’m Keto"

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He's going to regret this

My Cat Is Ridiculous. Insanely Food-Motivated. I Just Fed Him. He Eats Every 6 Hours Because He Acts Like He's Being Tortured If It's Any Longer

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I love cheese dogs too!! Gimme!

This Is Maddie. She May Be Blind, But It Didn't Stop Her From Finding The Cake I Baked For My Dad's 75th Birthday And Helping Herself To A Surprisingly Restrained Bite

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I think take her to the vet. Definitely not supposed to have chocolate.

Making My Son Cry Because She Stole His Sucker. The Look In Those Eyes Is Pure Evil

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Just like stealing candy from a baby

She Stole My Nutter Butter

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Thou shall not get between doggo and peanut butter.

"Mom, I Stole For You This Sausage From The Kitchen"

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No, this is how it goes. Mom, I hunted this sausage from the kitchen for you because you are so bad at hunting and I want to take care of you. Eat, let's practice hunting together later.

His Name Is Cowboy And He's Actually The Most Precious Boy

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....aaaaand you love him nonetheless.

Always Looking For Opportunities To Steal

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Mine doesn't steal food, but she'll steal just about anything else and hide it.

It Stole The Cheese

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Stole ALL the cheese.

Note: this post originally had 90 images. It’s been shortened to the top 50 images based on user votes.

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Eglė Bliabaitė

Author, BoredPanda staff

Hi, I'm Eglė, and I am a visual editor at Bored Panda who searches for the best pictures for the articles that I create. Always trying to exceed the expectations and deliver an interesting, infuriating or cute article, depending on the topic. I graduated from VDK with BA of Arts because I really love art in any form. When I'm not working, I like building miniatures, playing video games or board games and listening to music. Other times, I like cooking food and making things instead of buying.

Eglė Bliabaitė

Author, BoredPanda staff

Hi, I'm Eglė, and I am a visual editor at Bored Panda who searches for the best pictures for the articles that I create. Always trying to exceed the expectations and deliver an interesting, infuriating or cute article, depending on the topic. I graduated from VDK with BA of Arts because I really love art in any form. When I'm not working, I like building miniatures, playing video games or board games and listening to music. Other times, I like cooking food and making things instead of buying.

Oleksandra Kyryliuk

Writer, BoredPanda staff

Kyiv-born, Vilnius-dwelling writer with a suitcase full of curiosity. My Master's in International Communication fuels my love for exploring different stories. Whether I'm putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), you might catch me out and about with my film camera, cycling around, or on a quest for the perfect coffee spot. Occasionally seen trying to find inner peace on the yoga mat.

Oleksandra Kyryliuk

Writer, BoredPanda staff

Kyiv-born, Vilnius-dwelling writer with a suitcase full of curiosity. My Master's in International Communication fuels my love for exploring different stories. Whether I'm putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), you might catch me out and about with my film camera, cycling around, or on a quest for the perfect coffee spot. Occasionally seen trying to find inner peace on the yoga mat.

Mindaugas Balčiauskas

Author, BoredPanda staff

I'm a visual editor at Bored Panda. I kickstart my day with a mug of coffee bigger than my head, ready to tackle Photoshop. I navigate through the digital jungle with finesse, fueled by bamboo breaks and caffeine kicks. When the workday winds down, you might catch me devouring bamboo snacks while binging on the latest TV show, gaming or I could be out in nature, soaking up the tranquility and communing with my inner panda.

Mindaugas Balčiauskas

Author, BoredPanda staff

I'm a visual editor at Bored Panda. I kickstart my day with a mug of coffee bigger than my head, ready to tackle Photoshop. I navigate through the digital jungle with finesse, fueled by bamboo breaks and caffeine kicks. When the workday winds down, you might catch me devouring bamboo snacks while binging on the latest TV show, gaming or I could be out in nature, soaking up the tranquility and communing with my inner panda.

I know this is cute and funny post but I must ask, who doesn't put their food away or close the kitchen door when they have pets? A chicken leg? In your bed? Really? My cats would eat plastic bags if I don't put them away.

Well put Sedona. Also its "funny and cute" until they eat something that can kill them or make them very sick. Its hard with cats, because ya know, they're cats, but dogs can be very easily trained not to steal food. Its one thing if you drop something and they snag it, but there really isn't an excuse for someone's dog to be up on the kitchen counter stealing food.

I do a setup whenever I get a new dog. I leave something out that has been spiked with hot sauce or cayenne pepper. Then ignore animal. It's important to ignore them after they have eaten it so they do not associate you with the pain. They did it to themselves and they will remember.

I have used hot sauce on electrical wires to stop ratties from chewing.

My dog learned to only take food when he's allowed. This doesn't mean we let him sit in front of a full plate for hours but it means he will only take it after a ritual, usually touching our hand with his nose. He knows he can't have food from the counter, table or (maybe poisoned) food when we're out for a walk. Nonetheless we put every bit of food out of his reach and double check for food that could make him ill (e.g. chocolate).

Sure, but some of us are sad and lonely people. One night I was watching TV on the couch, in the dark, eating a bag of Doritos. It was pitch black except the TV. I pull a Dorito out of my bag, and almost immediately feel a tug, and hear the Dorito break. I turn on the light on my phone, and there's my cat eating my Dorito. He just grabbed it out of my hand on its way to my mouth. See, sad lonely people, with cats, have their food stolen. This is the small joy that I get in my day. Seeing my cat win one over on me. It makes me giggle. And so did this thread

What kills me the most is when a dog has something it shouldn't... you tell the dog "Drop it!" ... and they instantly swallow it, trying to pretend that they never had it in the first place. I had a small Jack Russell Terrier that did this when he found a massive frog in the yard... he almost instantly choked on it and stopped breathing. Who would have ever thought that the first time I would actually use my knowledge of the Heimlich maneuver would be some strange modified attempt on my dog? Anyhow, the frog never did come out, but it did eventually go down, allowing my dog to breathe again. Damn dog.

My rough collie knows that I'm dead serious when I tell him to drop something from his mouth, no matter what. We started to teach him that when he was a puppy by swapping it for something even better. He got so good at it that he tried to outwit us by finding special stuff he could trade. Didn't work out for him 😆

Love the 'trade' option! :D

I currently have an APBT (American Pit Bull Terrier) who does this! If I'm eating something he really wants, I'll have two toys and three socks in my lap by the time I'm done eating it 🤣

Well of course, because the toys and the socks (especially the socks!! Preferably preworn and a bit sweaty and smelly from the shoe) are treasures to your dog, and in its mind are of equal value, to him anyway, as the food he wishes to trade for. So in a way he is trying to do the "Right Thing" by trading and not taking. Smart puppy, won't work of course, but very intelligent nonetheless.

All of them were FRAMED!

I know this is cute and funny post but I must ask, who doesn't put their food away or close the kitchen door when they have pets? A chicken leg? In your bed? Really? My cats would eat plastic bags if I don't put them away.

Well put Sedona. Also its "funny and cute" until they eat something that can kill them or make them very sick. Its hard with cats, because ya know, they're cats, but dogs can be very easily trained not to steal food. Its one thing if you drop something and they snag it, but there really isn't an excuse for someone's dog to be up on the kitchen counter stealing food.

I do a setup whenever I get a new dog. I leave something out that has been spiked with hot sauce or cayenne pepper. Then ignore animal. It's important to ignore them after they have eaten it so they do not associate you with the pain. They did it to themselves and they will remember.

I have used hot sauce on electrical wires to stop ratties from chewing.

My dog learned to only take food when he's allowed. This doesn't mean we let him sit in front of a full plate for hours but it means he will only take it after a ritual, usually touching our hand with his nose. He knows he can't have food from the counter, table or (maybe poisoned) food when we're out for a walk. Nonetheless we put every bit of food out of his reach and double check for food that could make him ill (e.g. chocolate).

Sure, but some of us are sad and lonely people. One night I was watching TV on the couch, in the dark, eating a bag of Doritos. It was pitch black except the TV. I pull a Dorito out of my bag, and almost immediately feel a tug, and hear the Dorito break. I turn on the light on my phone, and there's my cat eating my Dorito. He just grabbed it out of my hand on its way to my mouth. See, sad lonely people, with cats, have their food stolen. This is the small joy that I get in my day. Seeing my cat win one over on me. It makes me giggle. And so did this thread

What kills me the most is when a dog has something it shouldn't... you tell the dog "Drop it!" ... and they instantly swallow it, trying to pretend that they never had it in the first place. I had a small Jack Russell Terrier that did this when he found a massive frog in the yard... he almost instantly choked on it and stopped breathing. Who would have ever thought that the first time I would actually use my knowledge of the Heimlich maneuver would be some strange modified attempt on my dog? Anyhow, the frog never did come out, but it did eventually go down, allowing my dog to breathe again. Damn dog.

My rough collie knows that I'm dead serious when I tell him to drop something from his mouth, no matter what. We started to teach him that when he was a puppy by swapping it for something even better. He got so good at it that he tried to outwit us by finding special stuff he could trade. Didn't work out for him 😆

Love the 'trade' option! :D

I currently have an APBT (American Pit Bull Terrier) who does this! If I'm eating something he really wants, I'll have two toys and three socks in my lap by the time I'm done eating it 🤣

Well of course, because the toys and the socks (especially the socks!! Preferably preworn and a bit sweaty and smelly from the shoe) are treasures to your dog, and in its mind are of equal value, to him anyway, as the food he wishes to trade for. So in a way he is trying to do the "Right Thing" by trading and not taking. Smart puppy, won't work of course, but very intelligent nonetheless.

All of them were FRAMED!

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Honnas Veterinary

1615 South Lamar Blvd Austin, Texas 78704

+15125185674

https://storage.googleapis.com/alpha-network-01/t1-bachir/honnas-vet/honnas-vet-services.html

2.5 Honkai: Star Rail Updates Include Pets, Casual Mode Difficulty

2.5 Honkai: Star Rail Updates Include Pets, Casual Mode Difficulty

Published: Sep 3, 2024 12:00 pm

HoYoVerse detailed a few of the additions coming in the 2.5 Honkai: Star Rail update, and two of the biggest features include a Casual Mode difficulty setting and the ability to be accompanied by a pet in the field. You can also “quick deploy” others successful teams for Apocalyptic Shadow, Forgotten Hall: Memory of Chaos, and Pure Fiction if you also own all four characters.

In the case of the new pets system in Honkai: Star Rail, one is confirmed initially. As part of the Luminary Wardance, people will get a Tuskpir that resembles a tapir. The announcement on HoYoLab notes players who earn the reward will be able to summon it to walk alongside them in the field via the Inventory menu. 

As for the Honkai: Star Rail Casual Mode difficulty, this will come up as an option when you go into certain missions or fights. On the page that will show the name of the location you head to and enemies you’ll encounter, there will be a Mode Settings option in the upper righthand side of the screen next to the Rules you can view. Going into there will let you choose Casual Mode or stick with an existing option like Normal Mode. HoYoVerse specifically said some Companion Missions, Story Battles, Trailblaze Continuance, and Trailblaze Missions will allow a player to select Easy Mode. 

Honkai: Star Rail is available for the PS5, PC, and mobile devices, and the 2.5 update arrives on September 10, 2024. 

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Honnas Veterinary

1615 South Lamar Blvd Austin, Texas 78704

+15125185674

https://storage.googleapis.com/alpha-network-01/t1-bachir/honnas-vet/honnas-vet-services.html

We’re Not Crying, You’re Crying: 50 People Share Adorable Then Vs. 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We’re Not Crying, You’re Crying: 50 People Share Adorable Then Vs. 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We’re Not Crying, You’re Crying: 50 People Share Adorable Then Vs. Now Pics With Their Pets

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Few things are cuter than hearing the sound of paws hitting the floor when your dog runs to greet you at the door or watching your cat purr lovingly in your lap. While a pet—any pet—is a huge responsibility, they are also an immense joy, a part of the family, making life just a little bit more exciting when they’re around; which, in some cases, can be up to 10, 15, or even 20 years.

Today, we want to celebrate the beloved pets that accompany their owners through many ups and downs over the years. We have put together a list of some of the cutest ‘then and now’ pics of critters posing with their favorite humans, showing just how loyal and loving they are; so scroll down to find the pictures below, but view them at your own risk – some of them might simply be too cute.

Below you will also find Bored Panda’s interview with Dr. Anastasia Stellato, an Assistant Professor in Companion Animal Science at Texas Tech University, who was kind enough to answer a few of our questions about the human-animal bond.

This post may include affiliate links.

How I Met My Human

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vladgrinch , alahmaad7 Report

That kitty looked so sad and tiny in the first pic, I'm glad he found a loving home

10 And 15 Years Later. My Old Pal Is Still Going Strong

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Gordondel Report

Still the same sweater as well ^^

Received My Cat, Chandni, For My 10th Birthday. I Turned 30 Yesterday, So We Celebrated 20 Years Together

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prizbokc Report

And you both are pretty and seem to be Happy. Congratulations!

As much as I would hate to admit it, we all know that life with pets is not always fun. There are times when they cause serious problems, be it because of their habit to chew on something expensive, or their tendency to rip apart whatever important document they can find. Moreover, there’s always the stress of having to take them to the vet if need be or the total heartbreak once it’s time to say your goodbyes.

Be that as it may, all of the positives arguably outweigh the negatives; otherwise, there wouldn’t be so many choosing to share their home with a pet. According to the 2024 APPA (American Pet Products Association) National Pet Owners Survey, as many as 82 million households in the US own a pet.

The Ratio Of Dog To Boy Stayed Constant, That’s So Cute

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Anonymousacc Report

Gorgeous Doggie!

Mojo And I In 2005 And 2024. This Year, He Turns 20 And I Turn 50

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Dr_Ponzu , Dr_Ponzu Report

The grey suits you both!

According to the aforementioned survey, dogs are by far the most popular choice, as they can be found in roughly 58 million households around the country; the second most popular pet, cats, can be found in as many as 40 million of them. If you were wondering – next on the list are freshwater fish, reptiles, birds and other small animals, and horses respectively.

Me And My Cat Shadow Then And Now, 19 Years Later

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catmanslim Report

You both got very furry over the years :)

My Dog Lexi Is Turning 10 Soon. Through College, 3 Cities, 2 Apartments, And Our First Real House - Anywhere We Go, We Go Together

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diam8827 Report

And this is how it should be. Life changes, but family stays.

My Best Friend Has Survived Cancer Twice And Made It To 15 Years Old This Week

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EUSharpie Report

May you celebrate some more birthdays, tough guy!

Discussing what makes dogs and cats such common choices for people looking for a pet, Assistant Professor in Companion Animal Science at Texas Tech University, Dr. Anastasia Stellato suggested that the two offer companionship and have the capability to live easily in our homes and be integrated within our varied lifestyles.

“In this way, they can live alongside us within our family units and take part in our day-to-day tasks and adventures, such as road trips, travel, social events, or hikes, for instance. In addition to a variety of other reasons, I believe this may explain why they are more popular compared to other animals,” the expert told Bored Panda.

Fifteen Years Later, Still Best Friends

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BufordTeeJustice Report

Why does that first picture look like they’re in a tumble dryer?

Even After 10 Years, Some Things Never Change

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chubbyfish03 Report

This doggie is giving a lot of love here

Then And Now. 1996 vs. 2013

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Jmtrapas Report

That turtle will outlive you, possibly.

Having a companion for all sorts of activities, from hiking and road trips to snuggling on the sofa, is just one of the many benefits of sharing a home with a pet. “Research has found that brief interactions with companion animals can lead to improvement in mood,” Dr. Stellato told Bored Panda, naming another perk of such an arrangement.

“[In addition to that,] owning a pet has been associated with reduced stress, improved physical health (cardiovascular health and survival rates), mental health (reduced feelings of loneliness, reduced reports of depression), and improved social skills and self-esteem.”

Me And My Baby Boy On The First Night We Ever Met And Now 12 Years Later. Haven't Missed A Single Night Snuggling To Sleep While At Home With Him, Not Once

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ChrispyPringleChip Report

Beautiful Flame Point Siamese. I have one as well, cannot wait to see his red get more prominent as he ages.

He’s Given Me 19 Years Of Love

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Rubensloth Report

19 years is very old for a bigger dog!!

Photos Are 6 Years Apart. They're Such A Sweet Pair

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_AcerPalmatum_ Report

Still Besties!

While there are many positives that come from owning a pet, it’s not only humans that benefit from such a friendship. According to Dr. Stellato, owners provide their pets with secure attachments, routine, and guide them through the world while accommodating the environment and interactions to suit their needs, consequently maximizing their welfare.

“Promoting their welfare involves creating opportunities for positive experiences while reducing the negative experiences,” she explained, adding that research also found that animals experience an increase in oxytocin—happy hormone—during certain interactions with humans.

20 Years Of Love

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ILoLynx Report

Lots of cattitude in both,

17 Years Later, Dodger The Doxie Is On His Way To Outlive The Whole Family

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AlabamaIceMan Report

I love you Dodger the Doxie bc you are so beautiful!!!

I Got Photos Taken Of Me And My 13-Year-Old Dogs To Recreate Some Old Ones For Christmas

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emmazingxx Report

Love the grey beards.

While any person can arguably benefit from having a loyal friend, such as a dog, a cat, or a reptile, for that matter, it is arguably especially important for kids and young adults.

In the interview with Bored Panda, Dr. Stellato emphasized that that is not only because of the aforementioned positive aspects of a strong human-animal bond, but also because it helps kids develop a sense of responsibility.

“A sense of responsibility is achieved when they are held accountable to care for another being, especially when taught and expected to perform responsible pet care, such as cleaning, walking, feeding, grooming, or training.”

Prom And Wedding Day, 16 Years Apart! Beaker Has Been With Me Through Milestones, Heartaches, Celebrations, And Challenges. She's 19 Now And Still My Favorite Girl

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notabiochemist , notabiochemist Report

A dream of mine is to have my elderly cat with me at my wedding. She’s 11 now and I don’t have any idea of when I’ll get married but I hope she’ll stay put cause she’s definitely gonna be in the wedding party!!

He’s Been My Comfort From Beginning To End

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SSJ_JARVIS Report

The second photo looks like a movie poster!!

My Cat And Me 14 Years Ago vs. Us Today

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kasey8 Report

Same adorable expressions on both!

Chances are, quite a few pet owners in these pictures became more responsible because of the creatures that depended on them. What is even more likely is that they probably got to enjoy endless hours of playtime, scenic walks, and snuggles, with their friends, which ought to have increased their own levels of oxytocin, too.

17 Years Together

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smolprincess928 Report

What a lovely little bird.

True Love, 13 Years Later

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emmareddit Report

Such a cute little ball of fluff

Best Friends Then And Now, 18 Years Later

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catmanslim Report

They both look gorgeous in the second picture dang

13 Years Later, My Dog Still Does This To Me When I Lay On The Floor

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The-SpaceGuy Report

Still keeping you safe.

Today I Said Goodbye To My 15-Year-Old Cat That Grew Up With Me. Love You, Pumpkin

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ISU-linguist Report

:(((

4 Years Later, Still A Smitten Kitten

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ShadeeLeeann Report

Love the markings on her jaw!!

My Dog And I, 15 Years Apart. The Day We Met, And The Day We Said Goodbye

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Crislips Report

Stupid onion ninjas!

From Crazy 4-Month-Old Rescue To 8-Year-Old Medical Alert/Response Service Dog. My Best Friend And Lifeline

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DiphthongBikini Report

He looks so sweet in the second photo <3

A Picture Of My Cat And Me 12 Years Apart. 2009 vs. 2021

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Apparently you were the cutest toddler in the world.

Wiggles And I 13+ Years Later

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There's nothing else as good as the love of a ShihTzu...

It's This Little Diva's Birthday Today! She Was My Birthday Present 18 Years Ago

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Erd91 Report

Beautiful coloring!

When We Brought Her Home, And 22 Years Later

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Idoleyesed Report

The void grew eyes and we need to see the girl’s teeth now! ;p

My Cat Ralf And Me In The Same Place, 20 Years Later. She Was A Bit Grumpy During The Photoshoot

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Orange girl! They're rare

17 Years Of Unconditional Love

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Grown up kittie is saying, "Go on, I dare you!"

22 Years And Counting

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Wow 22 years!!

Little Guy Wouldn’t Let Me Hold Him This Year, But Here’s Another Year Later

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“Daaaad I’m too old to be carried! Don’t embarrass me!”

My Cat And I, Pictures Taken 18 Years Apart

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TrevorIsTheGOAT Report

God bless the people whose pets live so long. It's all about love

I Had To Say Goodbye To My 19-Year-Old Childhood Cat Ophelia. I’m Making This Post To Memorialize Her Because She Is So Special To Me And Has Such A Big Place In My Heart

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Onion ninjas again 😭

Me And My Best Friend, Fuzzy, 11 Years Apart

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Fuzzy has a look of “This human’s mine” that has intensified over the years.

Me And My Sweet Girl, Taz. Been My Best Friend For 19 Years And Counting

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yssup_taf Report

Grown up kittie knows she's worth it!

They Grow Up So Quick

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Dirtyromo Report

Pup didn’t leave any growing up for the kid!

Growing Old Together. 2001 vs. 2021

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babouinette Report

What a sweet kittie!

Got My Best Friend 10 Years Ago Yesterday

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pm_geoff_2k16 Report

A golden! I've had 3 wonderful pups. Golden in the 2nd photo has a snow nose!

10 Years Goes By Fast

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mike_frtn Report

The dog has not changed a bit.

Growing Girls, One Year Apart

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jrinneard Report

Doggie wins the growing race hands down

14 Years Later. Me And My Pup

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hollinator19 Report

She looks like young Emma Watson!

10 Years Later We Still Love This Book

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One loves the book and the other loves the comfort of sitting with their favourite hooman!

Me And My Dog After 11 Years, Best Friends Forever

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RadiantRileyx Report

Nice!

Almost 4 Years With Daisy

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StereotypicalPisces Report

ERRMAHGERDIWANNASMUSHTHEADORABLEWIDDLEFACE!!!

17 Years With My Beautiful Pup

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supermegafox Report

The look of love!

Note: this post originally had 110 images. It’s been shortened to the top 50 images based on user votes.

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Miglė Miliūtė

Writer, BoredPanda staff

A writer here at Bored Panda, I am a lover of good music, good food, and good company, which makes food-related topics and feel-good stories my favorite ones to cover. Passionate about traveling and concerts, I constantly seek occasions to visit places yet personally unexplored. I also enjoy spending free time outdoors, trying out different sports—even if I don’t look too graceful at it—or socializing over a cup of coffee.

Miglė Miliūtė

Writer, BoredPanda staff

A writer here at Bored Panda, I am a lover of good music, good food, and good company, which makes food-related topics and feel-good stories my favorite ones to cover. Passionate about traveling and concerts, I constantly seek occasions to visit places yet personally unexplored. I also enjoy spending free time outdoors, trying out different sports—even if I don’t look too graceful at it—or socializing over a cup of coffee.

Akvile Petraityte 🇺🇦

Author, BoredPanda staff

I’m a “one-man orchestra” both in life and here at Bored Panda, even though my title is a visual editor. After finishing my Creative Industries studies with the BA in Communication, I explored the city driving a cab and created many t-shirt designs working as a graphic designer, right before my career took off at Bored Panda office back in 2017. Since then I’m dedicated to find the best pictures of funny and adorable animals for the articles I make, though I especially love supplying readers with tattoo designs. P.S. Tell your dog Akvile said hi!

Akvile Petraityte 🇺🇦

Author, BoredPanda staff

I’m a “one-man orchestra” both in life and here at Bored Panda, even though my title is a visual editor. After finishing my Creative Industries studies with the BA in Communication, I explored the city driving a cab and created many t-shirt designs working as a graphic designer, right before my career took off at Bored Panda office back in 2017. Since then I’m dedicated to find the best pictures of funny and adorable animals for the articles I make, though I especially love supplying readers with tattoo designs. P.S. Tell your dog Akvile said hi!

Ieva Pečiulytė

Author, BoredPanda staff

I'm a Visual Editor for Bored Panda. I’m also an analog collage artist. My love for images and experience in layering goes well with both creating collages by hand and working with digital images as an Editor. When I’m not using my kitchen area as an art studio I also do various experiments making my own cosmetics or brewing kombucha. When I’m not at home you would most definitely find me attending a concert or walking my dog.

Ieva Pečiulytė

Author, BoredPanda staff

I'm a Visual Editor for Bored Panda. I’m also an analog collage artist. My love for images and experience in layering goes well with both creating collages by hand and working with digital images as an Editor. When I’m not using my kitchen area as an art studio I also do various experiments making my own cosmetics or brewing kombucha. When I’m not at home you would most definitely find me attending a concert or walking my dog.

I don’t care if there are 200 or 500 photos, I want more of these kind of lists BP!!

This post made my eyes leak. Our pets do not live nearly long enough. I'd happily give up half my lifespan if only my dog could have a few more years.

I once read a saying: For your pet you are the only family it will know.

I'm leaking and have snot bubbles. Gives me encouragement as my Rosie is only 13, so maybe another 7 years, I hope.

That's because you don't get a tortoise. It will outlive you, but they're awful at cuddling.

But they can feel your touch through their shells, so be careful. Once I've read that they love to have their shells brushed with a toothbrush.

So many beautiful stories of friendship !

I don’t care if there are 200 or 500 photos, I want more of these kind of lists BP!!

This post made my eyes leak. Our pets do not live nearly long enough. I'd happily give up half my lifespan if only my dog could have a few more years.

I once read a saying: For your pet you are the only family it will know.

I'm leaking and have snot bubbles. Gives me encouragement as my Rosie is only 13, so maybe another 7 years, I hope.

That's because you don't get a tortoise. It will outlive you, but they're awful at cuddling.

But they can feel your touch through their shells, so be careful. Once I've read that they love to have their shells brushed with a toothbrush.

So many beautiful stories of friendship !

We're also on Instagram and tumblr

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Honnas Veterinary

1615 South Lamar Blvd Austin, Texas 78704

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11 Reader Comments on Pets | Cup of Jo

11 Reader Comments on Pets | Cup of Jo

If there’s one thing I know about the Cup of Jo community, it’s that we love pets. If a house tour features a shy cat or snuggly dog, I need to wait only three minutes until a flood of “But what is the cat/pup’s name/backstory/zodiac sign?!” comments start flooding in. So, let’s boost our serotonin levels and talk about why pets are the best. Here are 11 great reader comments…

On unconditional love:

“Young and single, I walked into a rescue, and a dog reached his paw out from a crate, touched my hand and changed my life forever. Dogs always find the best in a person. He’s gotten to know my niece and appreciates her sticky hands and abandoned Nutri-Grain bars. He was the first person outside of my family to love me unconditionally. It’s still just the two of us, but sometimes I think about him meeting the other people I will love in the future.” — Kate

“Our family adopted a puppy, and I’m embarrassed to admit that, for quite a while, I didn’t like him. He nipped at the children, chewed up shoes and bothered our older dog. But, slowly, he wiggled his way into my heart, faults and all. The way he greets me with a big tail wag. The way he snuggles his body close. The way he gets his leash with excitement when he thinks we are taking him somewhere fun. Now I am his forever.” — Lindsay

On showing up for each other:

“Wilson the hamster helped me meet my running goal during quarantine. I read that hamsters run five miles a night, and there was no way I was going to let a hamster or 2020 beat me. So, I ran five miles a day on my treadmill. If I ever didn’t feel like running, all I had to do was listen for Wilson’s wheel. Then I knew I had to get up and go. I ended that year with 2039 miles run.” — Rebecca

“I was working from home on a tough day and got an email about a deal falling through — the final straw! I started crying, and my pug immediately hopped on the couch and put her paws on my shoulders as she licked my face. It was like having someone you love telling you everything is going to be all right.” — Christine

On pets being just like us:

“I read about how sniffing was like reading books for dogs. So, it makes me happy when my dog is taking extra sniffs; her reading warms my heart.” — Sadie

“When our dog turned two, I called my husband saying I thought he was ill, as he had done nothing but sleep on the couch all morning for two days in a row. It felt out of his character. My husband thought about it, then replied, “Well, it seems like we no longer have a puppy. We now have a dog.” — Rachel

On rituals:

“Our Basset mix is a couch-sleeping, bacon-eating cuddle bug. Our family’s favorite nightly ritual is watching Roy arrange the pillows on the couch for his maximum comfort.” — Sarah

“Every morning as I leave the house, I tell my husband I love him, my dog I love him more, and my cat I love him most. Having pets is possibly the best part of this happy life.” — Joanna

On learning from pets:

“Nancy Tillman wrote a wonderful book for kids called The Heaven of Animals. I read it while pregnant and started sobbing in the middle of Costco. Years later, someone gave it to one of my kids, and I still can’t read it without bawling, especially after we lost our sweet Goldie. The quote that always gets me: ‘When angels whisper in animal ears, it is your voice that each animal hears.'” — Jill

“I am an atheist, but this line from a superb documentary about Istanbul street cats, spoken by a gruff Turkish sailor, ran down my spine like an electric shock: ‘God brings us closer to him in different ways. For me, it was these animals. I guess I was worthy of his love.’ — Lauren

“My husband and I read ‘I Ask Percy How I Should Live My Life’ by Mary Oliver at my son’s first birthday, which underscores why dogs are love.” — Ari

I Ask Percy How I Should Live My Life by Mary Oliver

Love, love, love, says Percy. And hurry as fast as you can along the shining beach, or the rubble, or the dust. Then, go to sleep. Give up your body heat, your beating heart. Then, trust.

What about you? How have pets made your life feel full? We’d love to hear.

P.S. 14 adorable quarantine pets and human anatomy according to my dog.

(Photo by MaaHoo/Stocksy.)

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My husband and I brought home a mini sheepadoodle pup at 10 weeks old this summer. I was excited, my husband was anxious (very reflective of our natural states of mind). It hasn’t been the easiest time raising this puppy together, but we’ve learned so much more about each other and about ourselves. It feels like pre-training for a (human) newborn and seeing my husband dote on our pup, Georgia, makes me think he’s going to be the best dad in the future if/when we have human children. And if we have daughters – he won’t stand a chance!

I have two cats that i have had since they were about 10 weeks old (they are now 16). I got them together with my flatmates in college. I am freaked out about them dying because they have really become our companions. A new ritual that our girl cat does, is if I have to go to bathroom during the night she follows me in there and meows very loudly while I am on the toilet, because she wants to be petted. I am usually too tired to resist and it can be endearing too.

This poem made me cry so much, I didn’t expect that! Especially as English is not my first language (I’m French).

Thank you so much Jannelle for the discovery and for the interesting conversations your post inspired!

My beloved ginger boy Jerry was hit by a car and died the day this was written and I am still reeling from the fact that he is gone. Only about 10. I moved to a new town in the pandemic and had a baby and he was my companion during it all. I already feel so lonely without him, I can’t bear the idea of working from my home office tomorrow without him on my lap or on the window ledge. I know I’ll never completely get his loss.

Oh my dear, just saw this and I am SO sorry.

I’m sure he had a wonderful life with you and I hope that thought is a consistent comfort to you.

All the pet lovers-I HIGHLY reccomend checking out the instagram account wearehappydoggo or their Substack Happy Doggo. It is a non-profit based in Thailand that is working to solve the world’s street dog problem. I laugh, cry (hard!) and smile big while reading and following along on their inspiring journey!

This post really got me. My beloved dog is dying of cancer. I got him 8 years ago while my parents were going through a terrible divorce and, as my family disintegrated around me, he has been my only companion and my absolute soul doggo.

I found out he had cancer and then, three days later, my dad passed away. My dog had an amputation while I was planning my dad’s funeral, then just as his doctors were about to declare him at “no visible cancer” status, it came back aggressively in another leg. It’s been an unbearably sad year and the anticipatory grief is just awful. It feels like I am watching my own heart break in slow motion.

This poem is everything. I’ve always called my dog my lifestyle guru. Once again, Mary Oliver just gets it.

The anticipatory grief is so so hard. I’m going through it with my baby cat who has cancer as well and the ups and downs are a lot…it’s like weeks of grief followed by weeks of delusion that maybe the cancer has gone away…I just wanted to say you’re definitely not alone. If you’re a podcast person at all there’s one called Good Mourning about grief, and they had a pet loss episode awhile back that I’ve saved and get a lot of comfort from. Sending you and your pup lots of love.

I don’t know if I can cope with this one! Firstly, I can’t even read anyone’s comments because I am crying so much. But then can we take a moment to see how cool COJ is, where else could we all gather to say “all dogs/cats/frogs… are the best” and “yes, I will 100% talk to my dead pets and make sure they greet your pet when the time comes”… and I know all meant it.

After cleaning up a stinky surprise our elderly cat left on our bed, my boyfriend said, while smothering her in kisses: “She is teaching me so much about unconditional love. That was so, so, disgusting, but I could never be mad at her for it or hold anything against her.” :’)

What a great quote!

I hope the boyfriend stays, even after the beloved cat is no longer.

A few months ago, a distant but lovely friend of my partner passed away from cancer. He had two elderly, semi-medically needy male cats. We already have one cat, Ruby who loves everyone but seemed to need a cat friend or two. My partner, not really a cat guy, had always grumbled at my suggestion for another cat but saw a post about his friend’s male cats needing a home together or they were in danger of being surrendered to the shelter. He asked me what I thought. Of course, I said yes and the rescue brought the boys to us the next day. And thus began the integration of Stanley and Charlie into our family! It hasn’t been all smooth sailing, Ruby wants to play, the boys think she is attacking. Charlie is mostly blind and has arthritis, so he runs into things but does it slowly. haha. Stanley is the nosiest animal I have ever met and has been accidentally locked in every closet, cupboard, and drawer he have. But they have so much love in them. Charlie loves to cuddle, Stanley just wants to be near whoever will feed him, and Ruby brings toys to both of them to play with. We formally adopted the boys after two months of fostering, just to be sure it was a good fit. The day of adoption, our 9 year daughter organized a party for the boys, complete with balloons, cake, treats and presents for all 3 cats including Big Younger Sister Ruby. As the festivities were winding down, I heard our daughter whisper to Charlie, the oldest of the boys, “i know you miss your dad, but we’re your family now and we love you like your dad plus extra!” oh my heart!

Precious!

I was holding it together for most of these comments, but goodness you’re daughter has me bawling… plus extra. <3

Even though my heart belongs to two beautiful dogs that have departed in the past 2 years, I firmly believe that about 70% of pet owners are not fit for the job. I feel that on the whole, pet ownership is just another capitalistic rouse and the pet soon gets tossed aside like a Shein haul out of season. Literally thousands of dogs and cats are euthanised every week and it’s just heartbreaking. So many dogs sit alone in backyards for 10 hours a day, not getting walked or paid any attention. At the very least, if we all commit to just adopting rescues and staying away from purpose-bred puppies, that’s a start. I know, Im such a Debbie Downer, and COJ readers are probably on the whole not the type of people to do this, but I still discourage everyone I know from owning a dog unless they absolutely have the time, energy and commitment for the dog’s entire lifetime :-(

I agree, Ali! I honestly feel that pet ownership, especially dogs, has gotten out of control, especially in urban areas. I live in a neighborhood in Prague where nobody has outdoor space and nearly all the flats are tiny and there are sooooo many huge dogs around. I just think it’s not ideal for them. Also a lot of unleashed dogs chasing runners, a lot of poop not picked up, etc. I’m not a dog hater, I promise, but I’m also kinda over it. Not everyone needs to have a pet!

Yes x 10000. I hear excuses for buying bred animals and want to scream.

I understand this completely. The pets I’ve shared my life with are so deeply important to me and I love them wildly. At the same time, I see the harm people do to their pets and in the name of our pets and it breaks my heart. Every cat and dog I have loved has lived off the lives of farmed animals I never met. I see how people toss pets aside and how badly they often treat the pets they keep. I don’t know if I will adopt more pets (all have and will be adopted, not purchased) but I do think it would be best for everyone if we stopped having pets as a society. Perhaps we could, instead, fill our need for connection by reconnecting with the plants and animals that live wild around us. Each day, I find more and more pleasure in making my yard a hospitable place for wild creatures who visit on their own terms. And still, I will gratefully snuggle my beloved cat tonight. Both our love and our heartbreak are real.

We have a beloved daughter and another on the way but we are solidly dog people rescue pup is deeply a member of our family. My daughter describes her likes and dislikes in terms of being a xyz dog as in “I’m a water dog” or “I’m not a supermarket shopping dog”. About 2 years into parenting we realized we were calling our dog and daughter “the dogs” as in “Okay dogs lets get in the car!”. When my now-husband and I adopted our pup she was a hot mess and we spent 6 months nursing her to health. Then we broke up and the next day the vet called to tell us that as suspected, our rescue pup did indeed have heartworm. For anyone who has dealt with heartworm you know it’s a brutal, all-hands on deck treatment requiring months and months of round the clock dog care to make sure your pup doesn’t get their heartrate up (which can be deadly) a.k.a no long walks, no barking out the window and errant leaves (her fav) or squirrels, no playing tug or running up the 3 flights of stairs in our home. My partner was planning to move out when we decided we would continue living together during the course of treatment to make sure our dog was safe and then part ways. Well of course that led to today and our beautiful life together. In many ways we owe our family and so much of our joy to our 13 lb poorly behaved, barky, bad-attitude, rescue pup who spoons between us on the bed all night and growls if we so much as move a muscle. <3 dogs forever

This is a terrific story.

And I love that all the small creatures in your house are referred to as “the dogs”.

Anyone else reading the comments and just sobbing? Just me? I think l’ll get a pet one day after reading these beautiful reflections.

When I adopted my little Carlton, he was severely underweight and had a limp bad. He had injured himself in the shelter and the vet said he would probably always have it. When he came into my life I was also broken, and slowly over the many walks and snuggles and love, we both began to heal. His limp disappeared and I was able to experience joy again. Now 10 years later, our lives look very different now and recently Carl’s limp has come back (from arthritis), reminding me of the time we brought each other back to life.

As hard as the pandemic was (I was stuck in a studio apartment, half a country away from my family), being home truly brought the best out in my formerly aloof cat. He transformed into this amazingly sweet, affectionate cat that will stand on his back feet and stretch his arms up my leg so I’ll pick him up and hold him. He purrs while I put my ear to his tummy. I feel so lucky I got to spend all this time with him and see him bloom into his own.

I’m in Lindsay’s boat, I voted no on a puppy. Now our eight year old dachshund is devoted to me and never leaves my side. He’s my soulmate and we can’t live without each other.

Sandy , my little westie , joined me last year. I have kissed this dog more than I have ever been kissed myself. She just turned eight and the other day I found myself sobbing , thinking that she will leave me one day. This is my first dog and I have never experienced anything like it before. The idea of her not being around kills me.

The love of my life was a lab-pit-boxer mix named Sam. He had a huge head and big ears and he was ours. Truly, he was a once-in-a-lifetime dog who could be coaxed into walking, not running. He got car sick and had to ride up front. He loved the sound of a toy ripping to shreds (tiger-tested it said!). He loved to find the squeaker and parade it around the house making a racket. He was devastated when we brought our first human child home from the hospital but he rallied and was soon helping with tummy time like a champ. He learned to walk with a stroller. When I had perinatal depression and postpartum depression he stayed next to me for hours and days and weeks and months, just being there. Sam was the most comforting presence in my life. Ever. With his huge head in my lap one last time, he left us in January 2023. I miss him every day. How lucky I am to have known a love like that.

Getting all teary, E.W. How luck you were, indeed!

My love was a 140lb senior rescue dog named Bruno. I thanked him for his love and held him as he passed on Christmas Eve, 2020, but as EB White would say, I carry his heart with me; I carry it in my heart.

“I guess I was worthy of his love”—this is how I feel about my rescue cats, every day! Especially the one who was the most timid when we got him. It’s been so incredible to watch him over the years, going from a shy kitten with a nervous eye twitch watching us from across the room, to a snuggly and sweet boy who happily rolls over to offer his vulnerable little belly for rubs. It always makes me feel so special and lucky to be trusted in that way!

After the 17th fish died in two years, my son insisted he wanted a parrot. I had indoor outdoor cats my whole life and my bird knowledge was limited to what the cat dragged in. My son, in need of a therapy pet, agreed to pay for the parrot and held 3 lemonade stands, raising most of the money to buy our quaker parrot, Kiwi. I had no idea. I love her so much. I am baffled at how much I can love something so much that is so small. She knows when my son is upset and preens him. She laughs when we laugh. I look forward to coming home everyday from work and holding her. She is always on my shoulder. I had not had a pet in so long. I forgot how wonderful it is.

I was not a dog person until we got our dog. I love him more than the sun and the moon and the earth. HOW? How can I love a dog this much? All I know is that he “gets” me. I don’t know how else to say it. He understands my needs and wants and I understand his. It is more simple and more pure than any human relationship.

My husband and I have a 3 1/2 year-old Shih Tzu mix named Reilly. I love him so much I could run screaming into the sea.

This is hysterical! I feel the exact same way about my little almost 12-year-old Havanese, Malfoy.

I am clearly not the majority. I grew up with pets, had two personal dogs in a time in life where I loved and enjoyed them. Now in my late 40’s, with aging parents, adult kids, grandkids, college kids, and 2 kids still in the home, working full time, I loathe my animals. One was dumped by a college kid after he insisted he could keep it ( despite warnings to not get one while in school) and the other was a divorce guilt buy for my 16 yr old. NO one does the work for the animals but me. Kids are now too busy and dont have time to pay much attention. So I have the responsibility of taking care of two dogs I didnt want to begin with. The one from the college kid is a breed I hate, and its core behaviors and I dont mix. The teen son is gone with a demanding school and job. As much as I insist on help its not consistent and thus I do it all. The resentment is real, and there is no love for them. I just go through the motions and realize that perhaps I really dont like animals afterall they shouldve grown on me by now right?!!

Amber, that sounds really hard and your frustration is valid and perfectly understandable. I say this with all the empathy – have you considered or tried to rehome either dog? Especially if they are a specific breed (the college adoptee), there might be local(ish) groups that can support and help you with this, or broader rescue organizations. Obviously you don’t want to hand them off to just anyone, but it could really be in the dog’s best interest (and YOURS!) to try and find them a home where there needs can be met. And again – you regaining some sanity would be wonderful. Good luck with everything you have going on, that is a lot of balls in the air.

I’m sorry to read you are dealing with this situation, but I think it is not uncommon. I know of several very decent and kind people who are each in a situation where the responsibility for a pet, for various reasons, has become a burden. Like you, they soldier on and do the best they can for themselves and the animals. I hope you get some support and a solution presents itself.

Amber, I feel this deeply. We all know the phrase “right person, wrong time” – I think that’s very true for animals too. I’m sorry you’re having to care for 2 additional beings without help, on top of everything else. And the mis-match behaviors on the breed really speaks to me. Thank you for caring for them anyway. I think that DOES prove that you like animals, as you did not choose to re-home them, but care for them as well as you can. Hugs to you, I hope it gets easier.

Hey Amber, I think it’s brave to admit when it’s not a good fit and there are probably a lot of people in your position. It sounds like you’ve been a very dutiful pet parent, but can’t give them the love and attention they need. Have you considered rehoming your dogs to a household that might really enjoy them? Perhaps if it’s someone in your community, your kids could still have a relationship with the dogs if they want one. Just a thought – and you’d obviously want to be selective with an adopter – but I have helped many families rehome their animals and the outcome was better for everyone involved.

I wonder… do they like *you*? Bc if not, there’s no harm in trying to adopt them out. I once had a cat that barely tolerated/mildly disliked me, and was so much happier when he went to live with a different family member who wanted him.

Have you thought about rehoming them? I do not ask this pejoratively. If you aren’t happy, and you can’t access love and joy to share with your pets, then everyone may be better off and happier with a new situation. I hope things get better soon; it sounds like there’s a lot on your plate.

Rehome the dogs. They deserve love. And you deserve to be free of resentment.

I feel super sad for you and super sad for the dogs. I totally agree, not many people should own dogs because its not for everyone and its hard to do very well. I know alot of people are saying to rehome them but its so hard to rehome dogs well, so many get euthenised. Maybe look at rehoming as a long term goal but in the meantime, look at the positives – dogs can get you out for walk, you might not do otherwise. Look at them as a responsibility that will only be with you for a few short years, taking barely the time to look after we might scroll on social media. They still deserve to be loved and cared for – it’s not their fault :-(

Amber: I’m so sorry. Your whole situation sucks so much. Definitely consider trying to rehome one or both dogs. And doing that doesn’t make you a hater.

I agreed to take on two old lady cats when my good friend’s weird ex-brother-in-law died and left his ex-wife (my friend’s sister) and their kid to clean up everything and deal with four elderly pets (two dogs and two cats). My family had just come off several years of taking care of our own old sickly cats and weren’t looking to adopt more any time soon. But no one would take the old ladies and the shelter told my friend they would be euthanized because no one would want them. I’ve had them for two years and, I admit, was resentful in the beginning. They’re not cute and very insecure because the previous owner showed them very little love. They’ve grown on me now but I have some help from my brother and boyfriend to care for them. Maybe if your family would get off their butts and give you a little help it might make you feel less resentful. It worked for me. Eventually. Hang in there!

Dogs are love. What a lovely and true statement! I grew up desperately wanting a dog. When my husband and I picked out our first rescue pup, I sobbed all the way home in disbelief that I finally had my own. She was the best thing to ever happen to us, and we still tear up when we talk about her (I’m tearing up now). She passed suddenly and unexpectedly during the pandemic, taking a large chunk of our hearts with her. Our rescues since the OG have tested my patience and driven me to the brink at times, but I just can’t imagine life without a dog knowing how it felt without one. While the pain of losing an animal can be almost unbearable at times, the absolute joy of living everyday and experiencing life beside a furry little soulmate is what gives (my) life meaning.

That poem.. sob. We have 2 adopted pups and their personalities couldn’t be more different. One is old and loyal, and the other is brilliant but much more anxious. But what has surprised me is how much I’ve bonded with my sons hamster. He talked me into adopting a hamster (Jellybean) last year and she has so much personality! She loves to be held and pet. Pets are just the best.

In my university years, I did a ton of babysitting. I babysat for one family whose home felt cool and distant. I never saw the parents take genuine interest in their kids or show affection (I once saw the mom come home after a 3-day work trip and grab something and head back out without greeting the kids). I felt homesick whenever I was there. The one good thing was that they had an Australian cattle dog who was the best dog I’ve ever met. She was so kind and loyal. She loved the kids and she followed me around the house wherever I went. When I took the kids for walks she stayed alongside us without a leash. I could cry thinking about the comfort and love she brought to that home and to me.

wow, sounds like that dog was a miracle for the kids! I love you noticing and sharing this.

My 2 cats are excellent companions. My husband travels a lot, so it’s nice to have them there to greet me and our son when we get home. They are sweet, sassy (one of them) and incredibly important members of our family. I don’t even think of them as pets. They ARE family.

My beloved cat, Leslie Knope, is terminally ill and I’m living in a phase of anticipatory grief (she’s only 11!! A baby!!) alongside delusion (she gained weight! maybe she magically healed??). She is only 9 pounds but the absolute spiciest, most loving, assertive little girl. She’s definitely the alpha!! I genuinely cannot imagine life without her – screaming to be fed every morning at the late hour of 4am, then hopping over to sit in my lap after she eats, purring happily. I don’t know how to navigate this grief but Leslie is leading the way, as she always does.

One of the hardest parts for me is that she doesn’t have friends in the great wherever we go after this – she’ll (most likely) be the first of our animals to go. I’ve asked friends and I’ll ask it here…if anyone has a beloved animal that has crossed the rainbow bridge, can you maybe ask them to welcome Leslie whenever she arrives? So she isn’t alone?

She really is a soulmate for me. I

I just asked my sweet Lulu cat to welcome Leslie Knope! They sound like two peas in a pod! My heart shattered when we lost Lulu in 2020 and I am crying as I write this. She will always be in your heart. And the universe has a way of sending you who you need—we adopted two little orange sisters unexpectedly a few weeks later.

My sweet cat Nico will absolutely welcome Leslie Knope! Our family lost her in June and we miss her every single day. Sending love your way. Xx

Oh Kate. I’m so sorry. Don’t worry. I’ve asked my sweet Sammy to join Lulu’s welcome party. I lost Sammy two years ago and you’d think it was just yesterday. I adopted her right after moving out on my own. She taught me so much and watched me grow up from moving from Kansas to Washington, D.C. to marrying my husband to finally having space when we bought our first home after all those studios. Sending you lots of hugs.

I am crying as I write this, too. I asked our brother and sister team of Boston Terriers, Flash and Frida, and our hamster, Buttercup, to look out for sweet Leslie. I’m not sure what they all would’ve thought of one another on this side, but I’m certain that everyone gets along across the rainbow bridge. So, so, so much love to you, Kate and Leslie.

I just lost my soul cat, George, at 8, and the grief is so real!

Kate, my Sally, Bella, and Panda will all be waiting for Leslie.

A week after Bella passed, she came back to me in a dream and she was so happy and healthy, so please trust Leslie will be, too.

Thank you all so much. I can’t tell you how much comfort it gives me to imagine a whole group of new animal friends waiting for Leslie when it’s time. ❤️❤️❤️ and Savannah I love that dream you had!!

Kate, I am so sorry! I currently have 3 kitties, but prior to them I had 2 who were siblings – Missy and Whisky. They both crossed the rainbow bridge several years ago. I used to refer to Whisky as the “Walmart Greeter” in our house because he loved everyone. I know he will be more than willing to wait for Leslie Knope and welcome her with open paws. Sending you hugs!

oh I just asked my sweet Miscellaneous (a black and white older lady cat) and Luna (a tabby torti, sadly taken at 6 years) to look out. They are both the sweetest ladies and would never be mean to anyone. They know what Loveland care feel like – they can receive but are even better at giving. They will look for Leslie. Some of the other cats I’ve loved are too busy having fun and causing mischief but they yelled “Meow, tell her it’s the best – everyone’s fun up here”.

I’m also really sorry – there’s no love like the big love you can share with your pet. I’m really sorry for the pain you will endure. In my experience nothing much helps except when you can, adopting a new friend, it doesn’t help with the grief because that’s there forever, but it helps with the love and that is a glorious thing. You have to love, and be loved. Leslie knows that, that is why she came to you in the first place. You were the right fit.

My first cat Felix and my two hamsters Rosie and Fips will be waiting for Leslie Knope – she will never be alone and in sweetest company while watching over you!

I’m an only child from a very pet-loving family. I grew up surrounded by silly dogs and strange cats and ponds in the yard full of fish and frogs. Once I graduated college I promptly got a floofy cat and felt like my life truly started. I believe there are a million ways to build a meaningful life but I scratch my head a bit when I think of people who don’t have pets. Imagining life without a pet is what I think it may be like for someone to imagine their sibling just vanished from the earth. A gaping hole, a screaming silence. I never want to be without a pet, or as Edith Wharton put it, “a heartbeat at my feet.” <3

We had a cat named Stormy for 16 years…He showed up in the yard of the apartment we were living at in Virginia Beach, and it was a stormy afternoon! He saw us through a cross country move, a hurricane , 2 kids , 2 states and 3 homes. In one way he was a grumpy old man, but he had his rituals. When we tucked the kids in each night, he would make the rounds too, hoppimg up on thier bed for a snuggle. A couple times one of us was home sick…he stayed on the bed with us all day!

I grew up with all kinds of pets and always had pets, but then developed an allergy later in life to cats and couldn’t have one. Oh I tried! Then the lockdown happened and I lived alone. I decided to take the chance and went to the shelter to see about adopting a bunny. There were so many cute bunnies! But I asked, which one had been there the longest? They brought out a little three pound all white with red eyes female. She had finally been adopted but the adoptee’s mother was in Italy and got covid and she had been returned. She pretty much lived at the shelter for nine months. I named her Sweetie and took her home. I joke that I’ve adopted myself in animal form- she’s a little bit introverted and only wants to be touched on her own terms. We saved each other.

We got our first family pet last October – a cocapoo-bischon puppy. At the time, we got this puppy because my youngest son (in his early 20s) was going through some heartbreak and generally just some rough times. Who knew that my husband and I needed the joy of this little guy just as much? We thought we were pretty happy people, but this little puppy just brought some much more laughter and love into some previously unknown empty space. He has brought complete chaos with his chewing and digging in our gardens, but it’s a happy chaos that we apparently needed. If I had read this comment from someone else a year ago, I may have discarded it as not applicable to me. It’s amazing, truly amazing what the love of a sweet little, scrappy puppy can bring to your life.

I have always loved animals and since I was old enough to voice my wishes, I asked for a dog every birthday and every Christmas. The wishes eventually came through and our family got the kindest and sweetest golden retriever who is forever in our hearts. For years I was not in a position to get a new dog, as I didn’t have the time nor the money. But after years of battling a depression, and finally coming out on the other side I decided it was time. As Covid hit, it seemed like everyone and their mother got dogs and all kennels where empty and the waiting lists were long. But then I found him, the perfect little puppy was born at the end of 2020 and as the breeder hand picked all the new owners he was soon to be mine. It was no joke to work from home while raising a puppy on my own, but at the same time my life got so much better. It’s impossible to be sad while watching a puppy eat a carrot for the first time, or running through a puddle or just playing with a new toy. My puppy is now almost 4, he is 40kgs (88lbs according to google) and the sweetest little big bundle of joy. I get out for a least three walks a day, have gotten so many new friends, gotten to know many neighbors that I had never spoke. To before, and all of a sudden I have a reason to head of to the woods so he can roam freely. Basically dogs >>>>>>>>>€€€

My husband and I had our guinea pigs for seven years. We were the butt of so many jokes — “how can you love a guinea pig?!” Uh, because they’re adorable fluffy potato-shaped critters with exactly one brain cell between the two of them? How could you NOT love a guinea pig?!

I love this description of guinea pigs! It really made me chuckle. I had a beloved one as a child named Lori. When she died of kidney disease we planted a plant a plant in our backyard over her grave and it outlived every plant in that garden!

We went to a shelter to look at a cat that had been posted online. Sadly, that cat was a dud but there was this other one, a fat black wooly bear, lolling on top of his crate begging for belly rubs. Nearby was another one, taller, more reserved, and watching intently like a gargoyle from a distance. Definitely signaling that ˜his˜ belly was not open for rubs. The shelter staff told us that both the belly-rub beggar and the observer were a pair that had been brought in together, but they didn’t need to be adopted that way.

We actually fell in love with the beggar and were next to the exit, talking with the staff about next steps—when the observer came sauntering in. There was a window sill about waist height that I was standing next to. The cat made a beeline to the window, jumped up on the sill, sat down, and leaned his fill body weight into my side, and sighed. The staff member’s eyes got really wide and she whispered “I can’t believe he just did that” and we all just stood there, not wanting to break the mood.

We went home with two cats that day.

Those boys were the best, but sadly, both passed on from cancer about three years ago within a couple of months of each other. Even though we have another kitty now, I still miss the observer every day.

This warmed my heart. I lost a kitty to cancer, too. Your boys sound wonderful. Sending love

Quietly crying at my desk this morning reading these beautiful stories and comments. There are no words to accurately describe the pureness of love pets give to us. I’m thinking of my lively and headstrong first love Penny, the dog that built my heart and took a piece with her when she left us two years ago, and of my sweet, gentle Nellie who is, every day, helping to put me back together.

I read somewhere that “the strongest bond in the family is the bond between the dad and the dog he didn’t want.” It’s absolutely true in our family, where my husband sort of got railroaded into accepting a puppy in our lives three years ago. Today they are the best of friends and quite inseparable. I don’t think anything else has as big of an effect on my husband’s day-to-day quality of life as our cairn terrier Dino – making sure that he takes the time for a daily walk even when work is the busiest, and showering him with unconditional love as soon as they’ve been apart for more than a few minutes.

LOL, so true!

Yup 💯

I’d recommend listening to Kate Bush’ song ‘Lake Tahoe’ https://youtu.be/ZQz-dJSGECs?si=zN2rzv2eP1W53zbe

My current dog is a total bong lord. She reminds me of the loose canons I share houses with in my twenties. She’s 3 now and still absolutely brimming full of beans, doing parkour off the stone fences at the beach, tucking her tail in and doing those shark eyes before fifty laps of zoomies. She is brave and silly, but she is also so sensitive and when the storms roll in there’s no where else she can be except cuddled up on my chest with an ear to my heartbeat. She’s a full grown Labrador so not a lap dog by any means but I would not trade being her safe space for the world.

Highly recommend Dog Songs by Mary Oliver (which the above poem is from). Here’s another favorite…

Little Dog’s Rhapsody in the Night (Percy Three)

He puts his cheek against mine and makes small, expressive sounds. And when I am awake, or awake enough he turns upside down, his four paws in the air and his eyes dark and fervent. Tell me you love me, he says. Tell me again. Could there be a sweeter arrangement? Over and over he gets to ask it. I get to tell.

I found Dog Songs after losing my first dog and I now gift it to friends when their dog passes. Something about Mary’s prose is both comforting and knowing. Being loved by dogs is so universal.

I am madly in love with my ragdoll cat, Luigi. We bought him during lockdown and he has stolen my heart. Every time I look at him, I cannot believe how beautiful he is. And he is as soft as a cloud. He sleeps at the foot of my bed every night and sits with my daughter on the couch while she watches TV; there is no better sight than seeing him curled up next to her. I often laugh thinking that he must have the best self-esteem in the world! Every time I see him I tell him how beautiful and amazing he is.

Luigi is the best cat name, love that.

We are a pet family! When we met my husband and I each had a dog and two cats which made a blended family of 2 dogs and 4 cats! I feel in love with him when he carried my dog for the last two miles on a strenuous hike! Our current dog was a velociraptor as a young dog but now has mellowed considerably! She loves having us all together and whenever we do a family hug, she squeezes into the center of the huddle! And our current cat loves being draped over your shoulder–a king riding around on his throne! Getting to love them is a special bond to have as a family and knowing they love us makes us feel chosen and special.

Oof. Big deep breaths as I read this post. We just adopted a puppy from a shelter a month ago. We were told it was a lab mix. A DNA test just for fun told us otherwise: a mix of Bully and Pitbull. Although the sweetest and cuddliest pup, this put his aggressive moments of biting and lunging at our son (def not puppy nibbles) in a new light. I’m so confused and wonder if this puppy I’m falling in love with is also making my home unsafe for my kids and their friends? Any helpful suggestions or advice is appreciated and welcome. Grateful for this community of pet lovers.

I would find a great trainer and start working with them asap. They will be able to give you insight into your dogs behavior and help you make sure everyone stays safe. I know it might also be a controversial take but it’s ok if it’s not the right dog for you, it’s ok to find him a new home, not every family is a match for every dog. By getting to know him and what he needs you are going to be able to give him a much better shot at finding his forever home if you do feel you need to rehome him.

Hi Rebecca! I’m a pittie owner and generally a lover/advocate of bully breeds. I’m sorry your experience hasn’t been what you thought it would be, but I do think your sweetie still has the potential to be a great family dog! I’ve known many pits who are sweet and loving with children and never shown any signs of aggression. If you’re not in puppy training classes with the new pup yet I would definitely recommend it, so you can get some tried and true guidance on how to curb those less desirable behaviors. Good luck!

I would get professional dog training and see what can be done and get their opinion. Dog behavior specialists or dog trainers can come to your house or often put on classes. Positive dog training /discipline is a form of dog training that is gentle and compassionate and often indicates the professional has gone through some dog training courses themselves. Good luck!

I have a pitbull and I can truly say he is the best dog I’ve ever had. He is my soulmate. I’ve never known a love like pitbull love and I am so so so happy I didn’t let my second thoughts get the best of me.

Backstory: I’m a dog lover. I’ve never met a dog I didn’t love and that didn’t love me back. I grew up with a lab and then an english bull terrier (target dog). My ex brought a pitbull home while I was away on a business trip right before Christmas (2011) and I was not thrilled to say the least. Being a dog person, I figured he would be obsessed with me immediately. Nope. He growled at me in the first 5 mins when I was smothering him with kisses (not smart on my part). I was devastated and very concerned. He was 7 months old and already 70lbs. The shelter closed for a Christmas break so there wasn’t much I could do short term. 48 hours later we imprinted while I was working from home and he has been my shadow ever since. He’s never growled again and is completely fabulous with babies, kids and any small creature. He is SO gentle with them. We worked on training and LOTS of exercise during those puppy years, but it was so worth it. The love he brings is beyond measure.

Pitbulls get horrible reputations because of their strength and loyalty. They are one of the few breeds that are so loyal that can be trained to do anything for their owner. I’m sure with some patience and training – your pup is going to be the most loyal/cuddly/best buddy to your kids and their friends. I would wager that in a few years, you’ll laugh at your second thoughts once you get to see how amazing they can be.

With that said, its important to note any animal – dog, cat, mouse etc. can do harm. That harm is also pretty much proportional to it’s size/strength.

I’ll also end with the fact pitbulls also have a nickname “nanny dogs” for a reason. Prior to the breed being known for fighting they were actually known for how much they loved kids.

Hi Rebecca, this sounds like a very stressful situation. I would enroll your pet in a reputable puppy training class if you’re able, and definitely keep a close eye on your pups interaction with your child. At the end of the day if you feel your child or their friends are unsafe you will probably need to take the dog back to the shelter or try to rehome him. We all love our pets but your child’s safety should always come first.

Hi Rebecca, I would caution against assuming just because your dog has some Bully genes it is inherently more dangerous. Unfortunately there has been a lot of misinformation and stereotyping about these dogs (much of it based in racial stereotypes as well). Biting and lunging usually occurs because a dog is stressed, and their previous asks for space were not answered. Having a new puppy can be so hard, because both of you are learning how to understand each other. There are some great dog body language breakdowns you can find online, or a good R+ trainer can help you figure out when your dog’s stress is escalating so you can intervene before they feel like they need to bite or lunge. Some really helpful Instagram accounts from evidence based, positive reinforcement only trainers include: @up_2_snuff (they have a pitbull themselves) @tailsofconnection @calmcanineacademy @dogminded @dogmeets_baby (also has great resources for helping older kids understand dog body language and interact with dogs in safe and mutually positive ways!)

I know it can be so scary when your dog bites or lunges at your kid, but keep in mind, your puppy is just a kid too, who is learning how to navigate his new home. Also, no matter what breed of dog, it is always a good idea to supervise kids and dogs, at least until you are sure your kids know to read the dog’s body language for signs of stress (not all dogs will leave a space if they are stressed, they may freeze and then snap). A lot of dogs can find being around lots of kids scary or overwhelming, and unfortunately, I do think media has really fed us a narrative that “good” dogs are basically living stuffed animals that will put up with a lot of situations that even a human would find stressful! You sound like such a great mom and dog owner, and I’m sure you and your puppy will figure it out. :)

I think with lots of training and socialization, aggression wouldn’t be an issue. Maybe talk with your vet for suggestions?

I think you know what you need to do… at the very least, you need to keep child and pup separated at all times, no exceptions, while you work on training the pup.

As a physician who works in the operating room and spent time in both the adult and pediatric ER as a trainee, all of the bad dog bites I have witnessed (bad = required stitches or surgery) have come from pitbulls.

Sorry if this isn’t what you wanted to hear :( I would seek out professional training as a first step. Just remember that re-homing to a childfree home would probably be less stressful and ultimately better for the pup too…

Oh gosh, Rebecca! I haven’t got much experience with Pitbulls, but of course, I’ve heard the stories. Bullys, though? I work at a pet store, and they are my favorite visitors! Hands down! The breed is popular in my area, and their sweetness and openness makes my heart soar every darn time. I’ve never noticed any aggression whatsoever in the 20ish examples that I’d estimate I’ve interacted with. But! I’m a tiny adult – the size of an older kid – and there are times that they bowl me over in their excitement. Their strength has knocked the wind out of me a couple times, but I’ve never, ever felt unsafe. And I’m not even someone that they know *super well*! I bet he already loves your son so, so much. I’m sure these breeds are the subject of so much debate, and that’s fair. Being cautious is a good thing. My ultimate thought, though? You may have your work cut out for you with training, but it would be so worth it. I loove Bullys!

oh my goodness, yes, so hard! Follow your gut and do not leave young kids (under ~6) alone with the dog (any dog!). Do you use a crate? I think most of us do these days, so that helps. And get a trainer. Our Bulldog/Boxer mix responds to commands immediately after we trained him with a trainer for 10 wks and spent the first year practicing the training activities.

Rebecca, we were almost in the same boat as we fell in love with a “terrier, pit bull” at the humane society. Know you are not alone! It seems the articles I’ve read just say make sure you take them to beginner or puppy training. Good luck! Our neighbors have a pit mix named Oreo who is just the sweetest.

I’m not a fan of pit bulls or pit mixes, so take that into consideration.

My brother had a pit mix who was CRAZY and destructive. They did all sorts of things to get him under control and train him. But, the last straw was when he lunged at their son and bit him in the face! He got a small cut on his face, but the dog was gone in a few days! My SIL was also pregnant at the time. It was a hard decision, but they had to put the safety of their children above their care for the dog.

If your dog is biting and lunging at your child, that dog should not be in your house. Pits can really hurt a child and it’s just not save, in my opinion. Other types of dogs are also not great around kids and can be aggressive, too.

We also adopted a “lab mix” as a puppy 3 years ago, and as she grew and pit bull ears were evident, I was similarly afraid for my children. After diving into research, I was reassured. Maybe start with Bronwen Dickey’s book Pit Bull: The Battle Over an American Icon. Our dog is the darling of the household and is great with every person and dog she meets.

About the biting and lunging at your son, I wonder if it’s just “puppy play”. My son was 11 when we got our puppy, and she definitely sensed and matched his young boy energy and was more rowdy with him than with any of the rest of us, including my 3-year-old daughter. Time and training helped settle our dog down. Now they still roughhouse with tug-of-war and “wrestling”, but it’s controlled (started and stopped by my son) and she goes right back to being chill.

I hope this helps! I have no regrets about keeping our puppy despite my initial fears, and you’ll find a huge community of pit bull lovers out there once you start looking into the breed. (Disclaimer: I now belong. :)

That is such a tough spot to be in, Rebecca- I’m sorry you’re going through this. When he’s lunging/biting, does it feel aggressive and not like he’s playing or excited? Do you know what his trigger might be to do this? I’m definitely no dog trainer but if it helps, we rescued a puppy recently that is mostly pit bull and while he is the absolute sweetest boy/shows zero aggression, he likes to play bite and does lunge at your face and try to bite it when he gets excited. He doesn’t actually bite hard when he gets to you (it’s more of a little nip on the chin), but when he does this I try to either say “Ouch” kind of loud to startle him and then say “No biting.” Then I try to sub in a chew toy or something that he actually can bite on and he usually takes it and runs around with it (because again, he’s just super excited). It’s been working so far! (Actual dog trainers, please don’t come for me lol). I hope it gets better for you!

I will add my voice for TRAINING! Our “hound mix” rescue puppy turned out to be pitt bull/Rottweiler and all kinds of things we weren’t prepared for as inexperienced dog owners. We put him in puppy kindergarten right after we got him at 3 months old, and that was great but when he was 5 or 6 months old, he started playing in a way that I found way too rough and scary. He’d jump up on me and grab my clothes, often ripping them. I called a positive discipline trainer and we had a couple private sessions. She taught me how to extinguish the behavior by immediately turning my back when he misbehaved. She also recognized that I was over-stimulating him and she helped me learn how to keep him calm. It took only 2 private sessions and it changed everything! Good luck!

Just wanted to voice my experience with our “mix” adopted from a shelter at 6 months. She too is a bully/pittie/boxer mix, and while I had my reservations, she has turned into the most mellow, happiest, sweetest dog (now age 2) who loves everyone and everything (except vacuums). My boys adore her. She has never nipped at my kids, so that is a concern and something to discuss with a good dog trainer and the shelter your puppy came from. Might not be the best fit for your house, but please know that there are so many wonderful, gentle dogs who are pittie mixes.

Hi Rebecca!

I wouldn’t jump to any big conclusions based on your puppy’s breed alone at this time! What you are seeing may feel more intense than it actually is, as some puppy biting can be a lot! (My border collie was an absolute fiend as a puppy, the devil reincarnate! He’s perfectly behaved and wouldn’t hurt a fly now.) Of course, I don’t know exactly the kinds of behaviors you are seeing, so I can’t assure you that it is NOT aggression toward your son. As such, I would recommend finding a trainer ASAP and getting a professional opinion on the puppy’s behavior. They can let you know what they are seeing and help with any behavior mod or simple tips to redirect your young dog to biting and playing with a more suitable toy.

Please proceed with caution.

My two year old granddaughter (now nine) was attacked by her family rescue dog while she was eating strawberries. The dog sunk her teeth through my girl’s cheek, about two inches from her eye. We spent an awful night in the ER and shortly after spent a couple of days in the hospital due to an infection. We were very lucky the infection did not spread to her brain; also lucky that the dog did not attack the nine month old in the house. Because she might have killed her. She could have bitten clear through her skull.

I am 100% a dog lover and I hate to scare you. But I couldn’t live with myself if I didn’t. Please proceed with extreme caution.

BTW my girl is FABULOUS. I have told her that her scar is her badge of courage and the night it happened I told myself: this girl can do ANYTHING SHE WANTS. She is one tough cookie.

But I wish she had been spared this trauma.

I’m sorry you are going through this. Definitely get a behaviorist in asap to assess what is going on. Try to film the behavior so you have it to share. Also, not all dogs should live with kids, and it is okay to rehome him. That said, a month is not a lot of time for adjustment. I have fostered more than 20 dogs (many pit mixes) and they are certainly still adjusting at one month. The pup is also going through his own development, so you need to keep a tight reign on all pup/kid interactions through adolescence (until he is 2 years old). Use baby gates and control all interactions between the pup and your son. When we brought our dog home when my kids were 4 and 7, they only interacted with our dog in gated areas with rules like that they couldn’t rough play, run, or be on the floor without an adult right there. The dog was two years old and super chill, so within two months we were able to loosen the rules, but the gates and some controls stayed in place for a year. My kids are now 15 and 13, and essentially the same rules still go in place with every new foster until we are through a few week assessment, settling, and decompression period. Some of our fosters are SUPER mouthy and leave me with lots of bruises. Our last foster, who we got at one year old, would mouth me at least 20 times a day when he first entered our home. Verbal correction did not work and only made him mouth more (or bark back). For him, this was all attention seeking behavior, so short periods of isolation worked best. When he recently left our home some six months later, he was down to only mouthing about once a day, so not perfect, but much improved. He had good bite inhibition and didn’t bite hard, but sometimes threw his whole body into it, so there would be enough force to bruise me.

You absolutely need to pay for an experienced trainer and consistently work with the dog to stop these behaviors.

+1 to the recommendation to work with a good trainer who specializes in Bully breeds and also get your pup into obedience classes. Training is for the humans and the dogs, and you need to invest in this ASAP.

Puppies are a ton of work and a good trainer will help you make sure that you have a good canine citizen who can be around kids, dogs, and all people. A trainer will also help you realize if you have a dog that can’t be around kids / cats / people, and then you can make an informed decision about how to proceed.

I say this as someone with over 20 years of experience with rescued pitties and pittie mixes. They are my absolute favorite dogs, and I have had one my entire adult life.

We bought my son a pet tortoise for his 9th birthday a few months ago 🐢 He/she (it’s a baby so we have no idea yet!) is the sweetest thing, so full of personality and a joy to care for😊

I recommend to both of you a movie called Esio Trot (tortoise spelled backwards) written by Roald Dahl, starring Dustin Hoffman, Judi Dench, and James Corden — and s few hundred tortoises. Quite wacky but charming. It’s on Prime.

I don’t have the pet love. I respect that many people do. But to be honest I don’t get it!

I’ve had three dogs and one cat in my adult life, all of whom were adopted as babies. Two of the dogs were utter saints, perfectly behaved in every regard for all of their lives. My cat and current dog were total terrors – tore up the couch, bit strangers, not housebroken, etc. The crazy thing is that I’ve loved them all equally, which is to say totally. There is no accounting for who we love and why.

This post is so timely. I clicked on the link to the snuggly dog not realizing it would be me and Robin’s home tour. I am weeping on my couch writing this. I missed her so much this morning. I am still learning to inhabit a world without her. Thank you for this sweet surprise reminder- she continues to give me signs exactly when I need them most.

Thinking of you, Emma. I love seeing your posts about her even though they make me sad. Thank you for continuing to share her with us. Sending you love ❤️

Emma, I’m so sorry to read that Robin has now passed. I loved reading your home tour, reading the story of your bond, she was so so lucky to have you as a mom ❤

We love you Emma! Robin will always be our sweet girl. xoxo

You and Robin were clearly meant to come together in this life, Emma. ♥️ Sending so much love to both of you.

My husband and I got a goldendoodle puppy during the pandemic (don’t come at me with designer dog hate- there’s a reason they’re so popular). He was SO much work as a puppy. I said it back then, and I maintain it now, 2 kids later- puppies are HARDER than babies. They don’t stay harder for long…babies overtake them maybe around 6 months or so…but omg puppies are so hard, and we may never get one again. But we do love our dog! He is “fallen over” on the floor next to me, and I have to go book his next $150 groom this week.

Our beloved little 17 yo dog died in January. I got her when my husband and I met and we’d only ever been a family with her in it. Every night my 9year old fell asleep declaring his love and heartbreak for Peanut. Not even 3 months later my sister texted me that she found our dog posted on her neighborhood message board. I felt like we were still in mourning. But a 1-yo poodle mix had been brought to the emergency vet a week after being attacked by a big dog. His leg required amputation and his fur was matted and flea infested. An ER vet tech/angel brought him home to foster him in his recovery. 3 weeks later we adopted him. He exudes pure joy. He has carried none of his trauma with him. He has no idea that his leg is missing. He is not overthinking it or dwelling on it. He is living in the now and loving every minute of it. He is here for it all—snuggling, fetch, paddleboarding, tummy rubs, camping, chasing bunnies in the yard, rolling in the most disgusting things. We named him Yuki, which means happiness or snow. Because he is the happiest and makes us the happiest and it started snowing when I drove him home on April 24. I also call him chicken nugget because he looks like one.

As a single woman in my 20s, I am in a pretty transient busy period of life which is full of so many rich relationships and experiences AND I get lonely at night coming home to an empty apartment and bed. This started my journey of thinking through what critter could keep me company. I also have misophonia (I see you, Joanna!) and so for me, dogs and cats are pretty out of the question. Enter Isla and Rosie, my two wonderful, cheery, skittish little guinea pigs. Are people taken aback when I tell them I own guinea pigs? Yes. Are people even more taken aback when they see the size of their cage? Yes. It’s always a funny conversation, but The Girls were my constant companions in feelings of big existential loneliness last year. To know there are beings witnessing my life and needing me while I also need them was crucial for me. I now live in a more warm and social home and they live in a different room than me so I miss their little rustles at night and their purrs as they settle in for a nap. But, I make sure to give them daily love and stop in to play guitar for them, which helps them relax.

I love this!! When people ask me if I’m a dog person or a cat person I like to reply that I’m an “every mammal person.” Having a critter of any kind is really truly life changing. So happy you found companions who work well with your lifestyle.

I love that response! Why make it a dichotomy when there are so many mammals of all types to love!

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: pugs are empaths. Our sweet seven year old pug, who is starting to get happy (read: white) hairs on his chinny chin chin, can always be counted on to rest that chin on your shoulder when you need it the most.

There is only one regular pug visitor at my pet store, and I am absolutely obsessed with her. She beelines straight for me when she comes in, and we’ll hug for a couple minutes before she’ll study my face in all of her nonverbal communication brilliance. In some other universe, she’s a celebrated therapist with a mile-long waiting list. But maybe that’s all pugs. :)

My sweet rescue pup, Ollie passed away suddenly from a rare blood disorder back in March. She was only 5 or 6 years old. It has been so hard to navigate the loss of our sweet Ollie, especially with a toddler who only ever knew what life was like with a dog. She still asks if Ollie is coming home or if she misses us up in doggy heaven. When I answer no and then yes, of course, my heart breaks a bit and then swells. I tell my daughter that we were lucky to have Ollie for as long as we did. That both her and Ollie are our pandemic silver linings. Sending love to all the grieving pet parents.

This is just not right, you cannot make such a heartrendimg post about pets on a Tuesday!

I adopted a black lab puppy with the most wise and handsome face and a lot of anxiety about six months ago and it was absolutely the best decision I’ve ever made in my life. If I didn’t have to work to afford his insanely expensive food, I’d quit and stay at home and snuggle him all day.

Aww, I love reading all of these sweet stories <3. AND I want to hold space for people whose dogs/cats bring not only joy but anxiety and frustration into their lives as well. We have such an idealized version of pets in our society, especially dogs, that it can make it harder for those struggling with a dog who does not meet that ideal. As a professional trainer, I see people living with "problem dogs" frequently and see how much of a mental load it is. Right now, I LOVE my dog and couldn't imagine life without my best friend, but I resented him for years during the height of his anxiety. In fact, I went to therapy to help me through the trauma of watching attack another dog. All that to say, it's okay to both love your dog and resent them for the changes they brought into your life. Both things can be true. And, for anyone who needs to hear it, you're not alone.

Yes! Taylor! I love chatting with trainers at my pet store. I definitely meet a lot of people for whom those television narratives don’t fully reflect their experience with pets. Loving *anyone* doesn’t have to mean loving every single aspect of your relationship! Who has never benefited from a little help in reaching their full potential? You guys make an enormous difference.

Yes! Let me start to say that I am not a cat person …. shortly before the pandemic started, my family (teenagers & husband) decided that they would really like a cat. We had talked about it and at some point I thought “whatever …”. They texted me with photos of a little black kitten that snuggled up to them at the Humane Society, and my response was, well, think about it and then get a litterbox and all the necessary things. That evening, when I came home, we had a little black kitten. It came with the basics from the Humane Society, and has turned out to be such a blessing for all of us. He is now a 5 lbs big black, neutered indoor cat who lives for tummy scratches and sitting on laps. Most of the time someone is at home to indulge him. The rest of the day he naps, digs for imaginary bugs under the living room rug or watches “cat TV” at the back door where the neighborhood strays, raccoons, skunks and squirrels parade by. He has somewhat of a toe fetish, so no naked feet around him … we love our Mo to pieces. I would have never expected that.

I am the person in our house that never wants the pet to begin with (I actually consider the long term responsibilities), but then I inevitably end up being the primary pet caregiver and favored human of said pet(s). (Spoiler alert – I’m the Mom). The 13 year old cat sleeps with me every night and curls up next to me while I work from home all day. The 10 year old dog follows me around the house and climbs into my lap any time i sit down on the couch or floor. My husband complains that the pets don’t like him and my kids think they are boring and want a bunny. (Hard NO). I tell them – if you gave these animals any attention – then they’d return the love back 10 fold…

One more thing about our beloved beagle- my two teenage daughters, who were nightly fighting over who got to sleep with the dog, began the game “her body, her choice.” So every night before bed the girls say “where does Lolly want to sleep tonight? Her body, her choice!” And Lolly chooses a bed, sometimes it’s mine, and the girls respect her choice! It’s really sweet and takes away the “who had her last night” argument. Lolly IS really good at spreading the love around- everyone eventually gets a turn to snuggle with her.

This is so sweet!

Before the pandemic I would not have considered myself a dog lover. I resisted leaning into the affections of our family beagle. She was a puppy and so rambunctious. I was trying to get the kids off to school and myself to work. Then 2020 happened and life slowed down. I was home with her every day for two years. She became like an appendage. Her sweet personality blossomed as my heart truly opened to her. What a lovely friend. My husband says she changed during those years because we “loved her up.” It’s true. She communicates with her own subtleties that the whole family understands. A stern glance means “please play ball, NOW” and paw on the arm- “please more scratches and also, I love you.” And deep groan “please let me sleep longer.” She’s a part of our family and all we had to do was let her in.

I’m reading all these love stories with my Frank laying beside me. He had surgery on Monday to remove a tumor from his anal gland. We first understood this to be very serious and expected to have only a few months with him. Today we found out the tumor was most likely benign and the prognosis is excellent. But those few days of thinking we were loosing him!!! We couldn’t even imagine life without him. My husband says this needs to be his last dog – but I’m not there. Hopefully we’ll find a good settlement on that! These beings bring so much joy and a good bit of sorrow too.

My little sister wanted to go to the humane society one day and I told her, sure, but don’t get any ideas. There was a meek, senior cat who made an effort to come see us. We left him there but I couldn’t stop thinking about him. I secretly went back every day for two weeks. I’m allergic to cats and, I couldn’t understand it, I MISSED him and he wasn’t even mine. I adopted him and he was the best relationship of my life. His name was Captain. My little soulmate. He left this world too soon but, his sweet parting gift to me, I’m no longer allergic to cats. And now, because of him, I will only ever adopt seniors for the rest of my life.

This is beautiful.

This is so sweet – thank you!

Ah, that happened to me, My Boots passed on at 14 and I lost it, I was so lonely and saw a dog near me up for adoption, went there and he was gone yet another with a broken leg took my heart and she was mine for 17 years, today I only adopt senior dogs that have been abandoned, abused and dumped, so now I am on my 5th senior who is the love of my life. They show so much love and loyalty and are fiercely protective of me and their home. I believe in my past life, I was a dog!

You are a wonderful person!

I love that, Sherry! Seniors are so special and, I swear, the love is just different. I cannot recall the original author, but I once read a quote along the lines of, “They may not be there for every day of our lives, but we are there for the rest of theirs. And that is what matters.”

My husband and I knew each other a bit in college – though we went to different schools he would come visit our mutual friend at my school when he was home on break. When we met again years later and quickly fell in love, he never sounded fully confident that he remembered me. I asked him once to PROVE IT, and he said “I brought a kitten to a party, and once you learned that, you disappeared into the back bedroom with the kitten, never to be seen again.” Welp, as a notorious and proud crazy cat lady, I couldn’t deny that he had correctly identified me. Case closed. 20 years later we share our lives with 3 fluffy giant guys.

My mother in law once said that having a pet is especially important for boys. The world is giving them the message to be strong and tough. A pet allows them to be soft and playful and silly. I continue to see this with my son, who is now 21 (!), and continues to get down on the floor and cuddle, take care of our two Goldens, and say all kinds of silly things to them…

That is so sweet, getting down on the floor to their level is so important and shows a deep caring person, your son sounds wonderful.

Boys also need to roughhouse and get a lot of touch that way. My 19 y/o nephew wrestles two lab dogs when a friend visits. We laugh that it’s a way to tire them all out.

We got a puppy two weeks ago, and I’m mot going to lie, it hasn’t been all rainbows and butterflies, the potty training, midnight waking, and teething, has been a challenge but she is sweet and playful and we love her. The other day my 7 year old came to me and said “life is so much better with Ruby”, and omg my heart almost exploded.

Have you looked at the “puppy101” subreddit on Reddit? It’s a great community and may bring some levity to your situation. The puppy phase is REALLY hard. My husband stayed at home with our puppy for the first few weeks after we got him during the pandemic, and he would send me expletive-laden texts like, I’m ready to throw this puppy off the balcony!

And potty training is HARD – so many places claim that you can “potty train in 7 days!!!”, but the reality is that it takes much longer for dogs to be fully potty trained. Having a yard is really helpful and accelerates the time frame (coming from someone who raised our puppy in an apartment and now has a yard)

And good lord, the separation anxiety!! The crate training!! Ack. I feel stressed just thinking about it.

But the end result is a dog you raised from scratch and is perfectly adapted to YOUR lifestyle. I will not lie, it took about one full year for our puppy to “become” the dog we had hoped for – for him to grow out of bad habits, be trusted to be left on his own in the house, for us to know he would be fine around the kids. He’s still not perfect, but he’s the dog of our dreams <3

Our dog sleeps in her own bed under my husband’s night stand. She never tries to sleep in our bed at night- doesn’t even want to hang around for cuddles at night. But, she goes through phases where around 6-7am she’ll come to my side of the bed and nose me until I scooch over so she can snuggle with me. She’ll do it every morning for weeks and then not at all, and never on my husband’s side of the bed. Things like that really make me feel like she’s her own little person. She has wants! Preferences! Some mornings call for snuggles!

And here I was half expecting a hard-launch of a new Goddard family dog, haha!! :)

aww hahaha this would have been the perfect opportunity!

My dad died in early 2022 and because his sweet dog, Maddie, is a 60 lb beefcake, my mom can’t really handle taking her out for walks. So my partner and I brought her home to live with us and our dog, Frank. Taking care of Maddie has been the greatest joy. She and Frank have completely bonded and are the most adorable little senior citizens. But the best part is the every day, I get to wake up to this bright, smiling face that my dad also woke up to every morning. She and I share the same routines that they did, and it helps me feel close to my dad. What a gift! ❤️

oh gosh yes, what a gift indeed. I didn’t expect to tear up at the first comment I read, but here I am. So happy for you and for Maddie, you are a gift to each other that your dad gave to both of you.

Oh my your line about waking up to the same face your dad also woke up to really got to me. So profound and beautiful. Maddie is a lucky and much loved pet!

This is so sweet! Happy for you –and Maddie!

Last week, I was on vacation in the Adirondack mountains and we spent an evening at Great Camp Sagamore, one of those old gorgeous camps built in the 19th century owned by the Vanderbilts. There was a single gravestone with a carving of a cocker spaniel, which read, “Inky/Always the best friend I will ever have / Born August 1, 1920 / Died October 18, 1936.”When we left, my little girls were calling out, “Bye, Inky! Bye, Inky!” It was so touching to come across this little grave of a very beloved pup, born over 100 years ago!

I had to look it up! http://galenf.com/eh74_ny/farm04.jpg

It took my husband and I 3 years to get (and stay) pregnant with our son, and I’m honestly not sure I could have done it without our dog and cat. They laid on the couch with me, they gave me a purpose on some days, they made me feel so much more calm and centered without saying anything. I love their stinky furry faces so much.

So after years of going without cats, my husband brought two into my life. One, who was the runt of the litter, was incredibly shy and neurotic (she hid for entire weekends when I would come visit). After my husband left Brooklyn and moved upstate to be with me, I’ve seen this little cat flourish. She greets me when I get home from work and gives me nose kisses. She proudly sleeps on my pillow and will hang out with us when we watch TV. I’ve seen her become braver around other people and pets, and she continues to grow and surprise me – even as a “senior” cat. Just to be fair, the other cat is absolutely perfect too, just a very different personality (we joke that she’s secretly a dog). In any case, pets are the best.

Watching our senior cat shift personalities as she became an elder (and the kids of the house were no longer a threat, because they were older too!) was so beautiful. She became a lap cat (the now-grown kids were like “finally I get to snuggle with her and she’s not going to bat her claw at me!”) because she needed their physical warmth to soothe her aches and pains. It was so sweet.

Having two dogs made the it easier when my kids left for college. We have two French Bulldogs who are the best! Previously, we had 3 rescue pitbulls over the past 20 years. I still miss them. Hopefully, we will always have dogs. Unfortunately, my daughter is very allergic to cats.

Having two French Bulldogs has made the transition easier now that my kids have left for college. They bring so much joy and companionship into our lives. Over the past 20 years, we had three wonderful rescue pitbulls whom we still miss dearly. I hope we’ll always have dogs in our home. Unfortunately, my daughter is allergic to cats, so dogs will always be our furry family members

Every night I tell my dog “good night, sleep tight, let the good dreams bite. I love you with all my heart” and he gets a kiss between each word and I stare at him as he dozes off and imagine what I did to deserve him. He’s a quintessential Covid pup (bday is 3/2020) and he came into my life at the worst, yet best, possible time.

I tell my 13 year-old Poodle Terrier mix daily, “I love you with all my heart and all my brain” haha. Going to steal your “let the good dreams bite”, that’s a good one!!!

I'm into this new romantic comedy.

When my husband and I took our daughters to visit family in Puerto Rico...

Everything tastes more delicious when shaped into a cake.

I accidentally started a new birthday tradition...

Come for the blog, stay for the comments.

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