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Woman captures video of a wild deer giving her cat a bath and it's like a real-life Disney scene

The kitty was so soaked but so happy.

Photo credit: Canva

Ever seen a deer give a cat a bath? It's quite a sight.

As humans have long kept domesticated pets, we often put our own furry friends in an entirely different category than the wildlife that lives around us. When we do think about our pets interacting with wild animals, it's usually in the context of them chasing birds or squirrels or us protecting them from predators that may pose a threat.

But once in a while we see a beautiful example of a cross-species friendship that stops us in our tracks. Maybe it's two unlikely animals that bonded as babies or a rescue situation that resulted in a close kinship. On rarer occasions, a purely organic wild-domestic connection forms, and we see the most heartwarming example of this in a viral Disney-esque moment between a deer and a housecat.

Sarah Stephens shared a video of a deer in her backyard in Nevada absolutely drenching her orange tabby with a tongue bath, and it's too adorable:

@ckls1622
Unlikely best friends 😂

That cat was taking that bath like she was having the greatest spa day of her life, and people went gaga over it.

"This cat is so happy, soaked and all. 😭😭"

"Sun baked cats smell like popcorn and this deer is here for it."

"What in the Disney is this?! 🥹💗 So lovely."

"Pixar just sleeping on this gold mine."

"Is that a lavender field with a wild deer licking an orange tabby cat??? This is what dreams are made of."

"She needed a baby to care for and kitty needed a momma bath. 🥰🥰"

deer mama, deer baby, baby animals A deer mama bathes her baby.Photo credit: Canva

"Deer is thinking maybe if i get in good with this mountain lion cub it will protect me when it get big. 😂😂😂"

"This is what I pay my internet and phone bills for. 😭"

Several people also found a deeper meaning in the video as they contemplated why different humans so often have a hard time getting along when such different animals can live in harmony.

"Why can’t we ALL get along like this deer and cat 🫶🏼"

"Moments like this or even my own dog or sons love make me quite spiritual, there is definitely a bond greater than ones self that we all share, now I’m not peddling religion here either, but there's definitely more than the primality of life."

"So strange….. why can’t we do the same? They are so different in every way. Yet loving and trusting. What is so wrong with us? 💔 This is beautiful. Feels like I’m watching such a deep and powerful analogy."

@ckls1622

Some people also took the opportunity to point out how cats are special creatures with special powers over us all.

"Cats are superior and the universe was made for them."

"Cats will befriend any animal willing to clean their ears."

"Cats always have servants 🤣"

"I'm convinced that humans are not the only ones who think cats are adorable and always have to pet them in public."

"Cats are always doing husbandry with every species even us."

Apparently that deer was not the only one with an affinity for cats. In another video, a different deer nuzzled up to the kitty with some mutual love shown.

@ckls1622

And here's the cat playfully sneaking up on a deer, solidifying the fact that these Nevada deer really are just part of the family to this friendly feline.

@ckls1622
Macky thinks she’s so funny 😂

Of course, wildlife can pose a danger to pets and vice versa, so this is certainly not an endorsement to let your animals roam freely in the wilderness. But we can certainly acknowledge and appreciate when a two creatures form an unlikely friendship, giving us an inspiring and adorable example of peaceful coexistence. And maybe even some spa-like pampering.

You can follow Sara Stephens (@ckls1622) on TikTok for more.

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Paralyzed but determined cat gets a wheelchair and becomes totally unstoppable

HarPURR is truly a one-of-a-kind kitty.

@harpurr_kitty_warrior/Instagram

HarPURR has always been a force to be reckoned with.

In 2018, a 3-week-old kitten was found outdoors, paralyzed from the waist down. The kitten's mom, who was later rescued herself, had cared for him valiantly, but it was clear that his needs were more than she or even the initial shelter that took him in could handle.

He was taken to Mojo's Hope, a rescue in Anchorage, Alaska, focused on animals with special needs, and given an x-ray on intake. He had a spinal injury that had healed completely under his mother's care. The vet thought maybe he'd been crushed during birth, but whatever caused his injury, it was clear he would never be able to use his hind legs.

- YouTubeyoutu.be

But that has never stopped HarPURR from living his best life. Pulling himself around with his front legs, the formidable "kitty warrior" runs, plays, climbs, snuggles, and does everything a non-disabled cat does—he just looks a little different doing it. HarPURR's disability means he has to wear a diaper, but again, that doesn't stop him.

Watch him go:

@harpurrkittywarrior
#CATurday antics with HarPURR & Lady Purrl! The #dynamicduo #handicapcats #handican #harpurr #purrl #specialneeds #purrfect

HarPURR can clearly get around on his own, but that doesn't mean it's easy or ideal. His first set of wheels opened up a whole world of possibilities for him, especially outdoors, where he found himself able to race around freely, chasing other cats, exploring, and raising all kinds of delightful havoc.

@harpurrkittywarrior
Hold on Charity, you don’t get a head start!!! HarPURR is flying into the weekend with his purrsonal drift turbo CATegory as he is our feisty purrnado of LOVE. Turbo 🏎️ button activated 💨💨💨 I just love the beautiful relationships and bonds that develop between the furry family members in our home. When that furiendship is so deep, the trust is there and then they can have as much fun as possible! HarPURR is one tough nugget of love and I am so grateful to each and every one of you who takes the time to send him love, share your comments about your loved ones and show us that this world can be a place of positivity, kindness and compassion. HarPURR and I hope your weekend is PURRtastic, filled with time with your loved ones and that you have the chance to slow down, breathe and cherish every moment. This week has been a whirlwind and we will be happy to have this time to “paws.” #harpurr #cancerwarrior #purrnado

The Dodo compiled a video of HarPURR's journey from rescued kitten to beloved family member to wheelchair warrior, and it's inspiring people everywhere.

"He was spunky from day one," said his owner, Shannon. "No matter what he was presented with, he just did it."

He got his first cart when he was about two months old, and he took right to it. "When he wants to do something, nothing gets in his way," Shannon said.

See on Instagram

HarPURR's indomitable will to live has people celebrating him, but some people also have questions. One commenter asked why his owners don't have his legs amputated so that he doesn't have to drag them around, citing concerns about sores and infections.

Shannon responded:

"HarPURR was born outdoors in Alaska and survived for 3 weeks thanks to his ameowzing mom cat. When we took him into our program on August 27, 2018 he was already paralyzed. We work very closely with our vet clinic as my organization Mojo's Hope has a focus on special needs and we have the gamut of care in our home. Our vet determined the next day that based upon how the area was healed up the paralysis most likely happened during or before the birth process. His mom knew how extraordinary he was, which is how he survived in Alaska for 3 weeks outdoors (his mom and the rest of the 11 kittens were all rescued as well).

Our vet and I discussed at length about amputation, however that would only be a necessity if his legs became an issue. Our home is cushioned the the max. I understand that you may be seeing HarPURR for the first time and have no understanding of his time with us over the last 6+ years. He has never over the last 6+ years ever had a sore on any of his legs (knock on wood). His legs and body are checked over very carefully several times a day (along with manual expression/stimulation 3 x a day), and he gets daily massages for his legs. HarPURR is incredibly strong and usually lifts his legs and yes sometimes they gently whack into the side, however no damage (as I am extremely vigilant with his care and the rest of our household) has ever happened.

@harpurrkittywarrior
HarPURR’s back!! Resilience, strength, courage, determination, compassion, encouragement! #guapo #gato #catlife #catlover

I do apPURReciate you doing your best to ask the question without being too harsh. I just wish people would learn more about HarPURR and his ameowzing life. Our sweet boy turned 6 on August 13th, is fighting bladder cancer (since 2022) and despite that is the most remarkable, courageous inspurrational sweet and feisty boy. I also understand that it is so hard for people to process how his life is from a 10 second video compared to 6+ wonderful years. I would encourage you to learn more about his life if you are truly interested. I hope that answers your question and HarPURR sends you tons of purrs of positivity!"

HarPURR is just 100% kitty, even trying to become one with the concrete, as cats do:

@harpurrkittywarrior
On this Flashback Friday we take a trip down memory lane to last summer when our pawrecious Cinder was still with us and being HarPURR’s devoted & loving suPURRvisor. HarPURR is showing again how he is just like any other typical cat and that he just LOVES to roll on the ground. I truly hope that you’ll take the time to read the post and understand that not only is HarPURR dearly loved and well taken care of, he wants to do everything “cat.” I often get asked, why don’t I just let him roll on the ground without his cart. Great question especially for those who don’t have experience with paralyzed cats. As his caregiver it is my responsibility to always protect him and keep him safe. If you know anything about HarPURR he loves his cart, however he does not like to be restricted in anyway, for example, like in a drag bag. I do my best to prevent any stressful situations for him and find ways for him to have as much fun as possible while staying safe. HarPURR never for one moment wants people to feel sorry for him, post sad faces, or crying faces. Those comments clearly show that the words weren’t read and/or that HarPURR is new to someone and they make assumptions. In the almost 6 years (unbelievable that his 6th birthday is coming up on August 13th) we have been so fortunate to prevent him from developing any sores on his legs. That is a combination of him being ambidextrous and me being a helicopter caregiver. HarPURR is one of 23 in our household and we have the gamut of special needs that I care for all on my own because it is my greatest passion and seeing each one thrive in their unique ways is remarkable. The impact that HarPURR has when he rolls into your feed is mindblowing. I am so grateful to every kind comment, loving message and sparkles sent his way. He is exceptional and I am so looking forward to his children’s book being shared so more people can learn about him and share his mission to insPURRire, advoCATe, eduCATe, encourage and demonstrate compassion! #harpurr #letsgo #warriorcats #cinder

You can watch HarPURR's adventures on Instagram and TikTok and on his website harpurrkittywarrior.org.

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Pets

Experts share the three ways you can usually tell someone is a 'cat person'

"Dog people wish their dogs were people. Cat people wish THEY were cats."

Canva

A person lovingly holds a cat.

Cats vs. dogs, a duel as old as time. The truth is it’s perfectly okay to love both furry four-legged creatures, as they each bring their own quirky, lovable eccentricities to this world. (It’s like having to choose between cake or pie. Delicious either way, so choose both!) Dogs’ and cats’ personalities and traits vary by breed, of course, and no two animals are alike. But our love for them and who we’re drawn to can often say a lot about us.

dogs, cats, animals, pets, companions A cat and dog cuddle on the floor. Photo by Louis-Philippe Poitras on Unsplash

As a dog person, I’ve always been curious as to what traits “dog moms” often have. Many over the years have concluded that the pet you love having in your home tends to fit who you are. Dogs are usually loyal, eager, and like structure, just like their people. Cats, the conventional wisdom goes, are more independent, mysterious, and introverted—often like cat owners. (Of course this is a broad assessment, and plenty of dog owners want to be left alone, while cat peeps dance on tabletops. At least one!)

But more interestingly, a recent article suggests that the animal you pick can say a lot about your attachment style. To understand the context, Attachment Theory was coined by psychiatrist John Bowlby, who noted that our early caregivers often shape how we attach to each other throughout our lives. The bond between ourselves and our primary caregiver (often our moms) in the first two years of life can deeply affect how we interact and develop social bonds as adults.

Psychologist Mary Ainsworth took this research even further. In what’s called the Strange Situation, she actually studied children and their interaction with their caregivers and noted the difference between secure and insecure attachment styles.

- Mary Ainsworth's Strange Situation experiment.www.youtube.com

Though many researchers studied the concept, years later, psychiatrist Amir Levine and his colleague, psychologist Rachel Heller, helped build the popular notion that our attachment styles greatly affect our romantic relationships in adulthood. In their book Attached: The New Science of Adult Attachment and How it Can Help You Find—and Keep Love , they explore this theory thoroughly.

Columbia Psychiatry states, “The authors popularized attachment theory—the idea that early emotional bonds with our caregivers impacts our future relationships—exploring three distinct attachment styles that affect the way we deal with relationship conflicts, our feelings toward sex, and our expectations of romantic intimacy.”

They go on to explain, in short, “People with anxious attachment styles tend to be insecure about their relationships, fear abandonment, and often seek validation. Those with avoidant styles have a prevailing need to feel loved but are largely emotionally unavailable in their relationships. And a securely attached person is comfortable giving and receiving love, can trust others and be trusted, and gets close to others with relative ease.”

- Animated video about attachment theorywww.youtube.com

Which brings us back to cats. In the article “Are You a Cat Person or a Dog Person? Here’s What Psychology Has to Say” for VeryWell Mind by journalist Wendy Rose Gould, she notes that “rather than our fave pet simply mirroring our personality, these preferences and relationships can give us insight into who we are, how we operate, and how we interact with the world. For example, it might tell us something about our attachment styles, whether we’re outgoing or introverted, or even how we handle independence and companionship.”

She cites psychologist Michael Kane, PsyD, who shares, “Cat enthusiasts [may] appreciate the less demanding and more autonomous companionship offered by cats. Feline indulgers enjoy the companionship of cats as they prefer connections that are meaningful but not as demanding.” (Dog lovers, on the other hand, [may] enjoy close and reciprocal relationships with dogs as they resemble secure, dependent bonds that provide emotional comfort, stability, and security.)

cat, pets, solitude, introvert, felines A bored cat files its nails.Giphy

(To put this in Attachment Theory terms, cat people might lean avoidant, while dog people a tad more anxious in their relationship styles.)

Gould goes on to describe two other cat people "tells." One is their (possible) preference for introversion, which is really just how we give and receive energy. Again quoting Dr. Kane, “Cat people have shown to be more open to experience and scored higher on introversion, which suggests that they appreciate more solitude and less social interaction.”

Lastly, Gould shares that cat owners tend to be more spontaneous than their structured dog-loving counterparts. “Cat owners may be more adaptable and comfortable with a looser, go-with-the-flow approach, as felines tend to be more independent and require less regimented care. This could reflect a person’s comfort level with spontaneity, flexibility, and self-guided motivation in their daily life.”

Best to let this Reddit comment from the thread "What is the difference between a cat person and a dog person?" sum it up: " Dog people wish their dogs were people. Cat people wish they were cats."

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Adopted puppy takes first walk with new family and digs up treasure worth nearly $8,000

He's a regular gold retriever.

pixabay.com

Lagotto romagnolo puppy.

Many a canine lover would agree that all dogs add value to our lives. But let’s face it, Ollie takes it to a whole new level. In 2022, Adam Clark and Kim Mcguire of Blackpool, England, originally bought little Ollie as a surprise for their daughter Alice. However, it would turn out they were in store for a lovely surprise as well.

Ollie is much more than an adorable face. His breed, the Lagotto Romagnolo, or Italian Water Dog, once used its keen sense of smell to hunt waterfowl in the wet marshlands of Italy, according to Dog Time. Here's an example of what a Lagotto Romagnolo looks like:

Lagotta Romagnolo, dog, breed, pup, cute, gif Happy Lets Go GIF by American Kennel ClubGiphy

Pretty much a teddy bear on four legs.

These pups are also natural diggers, and nowadays the only dogs bred specifically to hunt for truffles. These talents came into play rather quickly when after only 10 minutes into his first family walk in the park, Ollie began to frantically dig into the soil.

Much to everyone’s surprise, Ollie dug up what appeared to be 15 sovereign coins, meaning pieces of gold that could date back as far as 1489. The gold sovereign first appeared that year under King Henry VII and was struck until 1603.

gold, sovereign, coin, treasure, sovereign coins, dog A gold sovereign.www.publicdomainpictures.net

Clark took the coins to be examined by a reputable gold dealer, who not only deemed the coins legitimate, but valued them to be £5,943.96, equivalent to $7,564. It's not clear how much the family paid for Ollie, but it seems safe to say that they got their money back …and then some.

Though Ollie’s find is remarkable, Clark still finds his presence to be the ultimate gift. "The treasure is one thing, but the fact is, I've bought myself my very own gold hunter, and I cannot wait to take him out again," he told The U.S. Sun. "He is obviously a very special pup, and I'm thrilled with what he brings to the table — quite literally!"

— (@)

While Lagotto Romagnolos work really well for finding truffles (and potentially 500+ year old gold coins), they also make for great companions. Dog Time adds that they are easily trainable, good with children, and their hypoallergenic coats keep allergies at bay, though they do require dedicated grooming. It's a pretty even trade-off for their undying affection and easy-going attitudes. Especially if they happen upon a small fortune!

There’s no real telling what other trinkets Ollie might dig up. But one thing’s for sure—he’s making his family very happy, and that is priceless.

This article originally appeared three years ago.

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Sweet Golden Retriever runs into his vet at a bar and absolutely loses it

We wuvs his doctor.

@cosmo_andtheoddparents/TikTok

Nobody loves their doctor as much as this guy.

Not every dog might jump with joy after seeing their vet out in public. But for Cosmo the Golden Retriever, it was practically Christmas all over again when he spotted his own vet, Dr. Jones, at a brewery.

In an adorable clip posted to TikTok, we see Cosmo in pure, unadulterated bliss as he snuggles with an equally happy Dr. Jones, who, considering he’s still in his scrubs, might have just gotten out of work to grab a quick pint.

Watch:

@cosmo_andtheoddparents When you run into your vet in public #goldenretrieversoftiktok #vetlife #animallovers #petparents #goldenretriever #goldenretrievers #doglife #dogmom #dailyfluff #charlestondogs #doglover #charlestondog #brewerydog ♬ original sound - Cosmo

Ugh, the cuteness is too much to handle! People in the comments could barely contain their secondhand joy.

“He looked over like, “Mom, do you see who this is?” one person wrote, while another said, “What in the Hallmark movie? Adorable!!”

One person even joked, “Did we all check the vet’s hand for a wedding ring? (Said as a married woman. Looking out for you all, or something.)”

According to Hannah Dweikat, Cosmo’s owner, the two actually share quite a history. She tells Upworthy that when Cosmo was but a wee pup, he “gave a scare” after eating a Sago Palm seed, which are highly toxic to dogs, from a plant in their backyard, which of course resulted in him being rushed to the animal hospital and staying there over the weekend.

While that’s every pet owner’s worst nightmare, and certainly a scary situation for the poor fur baby, Dweikat says that “the calm and patient demeanor” of Dr. Jones and his staff put Cosmo at ease. And because of this, “Cosmo has always loved going to see his friends—especially because they give him lots of treats and snuggles.”

Cosmo and Dr. Jones’ buddyship has also blossomed thanks to proximity, as Dweikat only lives down the street from the clinic. “Which means we get to see Dr. Jones and his staff out in public at times and Cosmo takes every chance he can get to say hi,” she explains. This time, however, she was able to capture it all on video. Yay for us!

What makes a good vet?

While not every vet, however gifted, will be able to elicit this type of reaction from their patients, having a calming presence like Dr. Jones is certainly a good sign for pet owners to be on the lookout for when shopping around for their own vet. But that’s not the only quality a good vet needs. According to Saint Matthews University, a vet also needs to have high stamina (both physically and mentally), as well as an ability to tolerate unpleasant situations (you can’t faint at the sight of blood or vomit), a high level of emotional intelligence (maybe all doctors should possess this skill, but especially those who work with animals), adaptability, a sense of enthusiasm, and finally, excellent communication skills.

Dr. Jones seems to have these attributes in spades, and his patients clearly love him for it. None so much as Cosmo, obviously. Though Cosmo, it seems, shares a fondness for many things, like toys, fishing, and paw days. what he doesn't love so much is waiting outside for mom to get her coffee.

@cosmo_andtheoddparents Wanna see how many toys I can fit in my mouth?! #goldenretrieversoftiktok #boombap #kendrick #kendricklamar #chubbybunny #goldenretriever #goldenretrievers #doglife #dogmom #dailyfluff #charlestondogs #doglover #charlestondog #sillydog ♬ original sound - Cosmo

@cosmo_andtheoddparents He decided he wanted a mud mask today #goldenretrieversoftiktok #airball #holyairball #dogsoftiktok #goldenretriever #dogmom #doglover #dailyfluff #doglife #charlestondog #charlestondogs #dogdad #dogdays #pluffmud #fishing ♬ original sound - Cosmo

@cosmo_andtheoddparents Paw day routine 🐾 #ad Thank you @pethroom.global @pethroom_angel for the paw care kit! My beans are looking pawsome! #goldenretrieversoftiktok #goldenretriever #doglover #dailyfluff #pawcare #pawsome #doglife #charlestondog #charlestondogs #pawday #spaday ♬ original sound - Cosmo

@cosmo_andtheoddparents When mom goes inside to order coffee without you #separationanxiety #anxiety #goldenretrieversoftiktok #goldenretriever #doglover #dailyfluff #dogmom #goldenretrievers #doglife #charlestondog #charlestondogs #dogsoftiktok #doechii #coffee #coffeebreak ♬ original sound - Cosmo

If you’re in need of even more content featuring this precious pup, you can follow Cosmo on both TikTok and Instagram.

This article originally appeared in February

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Tiny dog goes ballistic every time she sees a blueberry and it's truly a must-see situation

People are rolling at Spud's…uh…"enthusiasm" for finger fruit.

Photo credit: Canva

Ever seen a blueberry attack? It's a sight to see.

Every animal has its unique quirks, but some quirks are quirkier than others. Many people think their pets are uniquely strange, but then an oddity comes along that makes you say say, "Okay, now that is truly a one-of-a-kind creature."

Enter Spud, also known as Spud the cryptid, whose over-the-top reaction to blueberries has people cracking up. Or rather, her reaction to a blueberry. When her owner tosses a blueberry her way, Spud goes ballistic. That's the only word to describe it, and it really just has to be witnessed first-hand:

@spud.the.cryptid
she loves it

This is not a one-off reaction. Spud does this every time, with every blueberry.

@spud.the.cryptid
Replying to @SillyMilly

People lost their minds over Spud losing her mind over blueberries.

"This was completely unprovoked hostility towards an innocent, sweet little blueberry."

"And STILL, No blueberries were harmed during the making of this video. NONE."

"This is also how I act around blueberries so I get it."

"That blueberry is probably terrified and confused."

"I am both terrified and in love."

"Hitting pause at any time during this vid is sending me. 😭"

Seriously, try watching those videos again and pausing them at random times. Spud's owner just did that and shared screenshots, and they're as epic as you might expect.

dog, spud the cryptid, tiktok, fruit, blueberry, weird pets TikTok · spud the cryptidwww.tiktok.com

People had things to say about the freeze frames as well, of course.

"I can't stop laughing. She looks taxidermied but also adorable."

"Spud was trying to go through the five stages of grief but never made it past anger."

"Like a wee little angel…of death."

"How is this dog both frightening and adorable."

If you're wondering if it's just blueberries that makes Spud go bonkers, no, it's not. While it appears blueberries are her favorite fruit to attack-yet-not-attack, she has similar interactions with radishes, strawberries, and even a pea.

@spud.the.cryptid
this might look like a strawberry and pea but really it’s men who have wronged her

Another thing you should know about Spud is that she has a particular affinity for Grandma. Watch how she "turns into a giraffe," as one commenter put it, when she hears it's time to go to visit Grandma.

@spud.the.cryptid

The blueberry enthusiasm extends to Grandma in real life, judging by the way Spud "attacks" her when she sees her.

@spud.the.cryptid
Replying to @EllieVision 🇬🇧

"It’s so funny because we can all be together for days and anytime i say 'is that grandma?!' spud just loses it even if she’s been sleeping on her lap lol," Spuds owner writes. "That word just activates something in her."

If you're wondering what exactly a "cryptid" is, it's a creature that people have claimed exists or existed, but whose existence has never been proven. Think BigFoot or the Loch Ness monster. Spud most definitely exists, but her looks and quirks do make her appear almost mythical, so it's an apropos nickname.

- YouTubewww.youtube.com

Spud's owner shared the lore about her, saying Spud is 3,000 years old, has a degree in fashion design, hates fascists, and went to "the earth worm university." If you can't get enough of Spud, you're not alone. People are taking note of Spud's spunky and "delightfully creepy" little self, and she's growing quite a following online.

dog, spud the cryptid, tiktok, pup, viral TikTok · spud the cryptidwww.tiktok.com

Spud even has a line of merch, because of course she does. You can get a tote bag with Spud's face on it that says, "I hate fascists," a shirt that has Spud dressed up as a strawberry on it, and more.

As one person wrote, "If Spud were a cult leader I'd be the first member," to which Spud's owner responded, "Don't tempt her to start running another cult." Oh my.

You can follow Spud for more fruity, cryptid, cultish, Grandma-loving adventures at @spud.the.cryptid on TikTok.

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Pets

17 outrageous, side-splitting photos from the Comedy Pet Photo Awards

The 2021 crop of winners remains legendary.

via © Jakub Gojda/Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021 and © Zoe Ross /Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

17 of the funniest photos from the Comedy Pet Photo Awards

If kids say the darndest things, it's safe to say that pets do the darndest things. One of the great joys of having a cat, dog, or other small animal to call your own is the endlessly entertainment they bring you. The way we communicate, and miscommunicate, with our pets is magical and hilarious. When you're lucky enough to capture some of that magic on film, you get the memory of a lifetime.

Taking photos are also an expression of love. It's no secret that pet owners are obsessed with snapping candid photos of sleeping dogs, yawning cats, and anything that looks cute, cuddly, or hilarious.

The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards are a fun-filled competition created by Tom Sullam and Paul Joynson-Hicks to promote positive awareness of animal welfare issues. Past winners include a well-timed shot of a monkey who appears to have hurt the family jewels on a suspension wire. (Don't worry folks, no monkeys were harmed for the awards.) The competition has been so successful, the duo decided to branch out and create the Comedy Pet Photo Awards, where photographers can submit pictures of their furry friends for a £2,000 ($2650) prize.

Donations generated by the competition go to Animal Support Angels, an animal welfare charity in the U.K. The 2024 winner features a dog shoving his head through a way-too-small cat door. In 2023, the champion was a kitten caught redheaded trying to sneak attack his brother.

But even several years later, the crop of winners from the 2021 contest remains one of the best ever. The overall champion was Zoe Ross for "Whizz Pop," a photo of her labrador puppy Pepper who appears to be tooting bubbles.

“We never ever thought that we would win but entered the competition because we loved the idea of helping a charity just by sending in a funny photo of Pepper," Ross said in a statement. "She is such a little monkey, and very proud of herself, bringing in items from the garden and parading past you until you notice her. She is the happiest puppy we’ve ever known and completely loved to pieces.”

Here are the rest of the winners of the 2021 Comedy Pet Photo Awards.

Overall Winner: Zoe Ross "Whizz Pop," Penkridge, U.K.

pets, animals, wildlife, comedy, dogs, cats, funny, photography, photos, viral photos, photography competition Overall Winner: Zoe Ross "Whizz Pop," Labrador puppy, Penkridge, UK © Zoe Ross /Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

Did this puppy swallow a bubble? Either he drank some bubble solution or this photographer just happened to have remarkable timing.

Best Dog Category: Carmen Cromer "Jurassic Bark," Pittsboro, North Carolina

pets, animals, wildlife, comedy, dogs, cats, funny, photography, photos, viral photos, photography competition Best Dog Category: Carmen Cromer "Jurassic Bark," Pittsboro, North Carolina © Carmen Cromer/Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

"My golden retriever, Clementine, loves to stick her face in front of the hose while I water the plants. Her expression in this photo made me think of a tyrannosaurus rex, hence the title, "Jurassic Bark." Duh nuh nuuuh nuhnuh, duh nuh nuuuh nuh nuh, dun duh duuuh nuh nuh nuh nUUUUUUhhhh." – Carmen Cromer

Best Cat Category: Kathrynn Trott "Photobomb," Ystradgynlais, U.K.

pets, animals, wildlife, comedy, dogs, cats, funny, photography, photos, viral photos, photography competition Best Cat Category: Kathrynn Trott "Photobomb," Ystradgynlais, U.K. © Kathrynn Trott/Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

Jeff stealing the limelight from his brother Jaffa. What is it that cats love so much about photobombing?

Best Horse Category: Mary Ellis, "I Said 'Good Morning,'" Platte River State Park, Nebraska

pets, animals, wildlife, comedy, dogs, cats, funny, photography, photos, viral photos, photography competition Best Horse Category: Mary Ellis, "I Said 'Good Morning,'" Platte River State Park, Nebraska © Mary Ellis/Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

"I like to visit the stable horses before I begin my hike at the State Park. This is the reply I received when I said 'Good morning.'" – Mary Ellis

When they say you should never look a gift horse in the mouth, maybe this is what they had in mind.

All Other Creatures Category: Sophie Bonnefoi, "The Eureka Moment," Oxford, U.K.

pets, animals, wildlife, comedy, dogs, cats, funny, photography, photos, viral photos, photography competition All Other Creatures Category: Sophie Bonnefoi, "The Eureka Moment," Oxford, U.K. © Sophie Bonnefoi/Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

"Cutie and Speedy are two chicks hatched from eggs placed in an incubator at home in August 2020. They spent their first few weeks indoors. In the photo, they are just over two weeks old. They were curious about everything. This is the day they discovered their own shadow. It was hilarious to see them wondering and exploring that 'dark thing' that was moving with them!" – Sophie Bonnefoi

Junior Category: Suzi Lonergan, "Sit!" Pacific Palisades, California

pets, animals, wildlife, comedy, dogs, cats, funny, photography, photos, viral photos, photography competition Junior Category: Suzi Lonergan, "Sit!" Pacific Palisades, California © Suzi Lonergan/Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

"Our granddaughter gave the command to sit. Beau is very obedient." – Suzi Lonergan

Anyone who's ever owned an oversized dog has been here before. This snapshot absolutely reflects the hilarious reality of keeping a gentle giant in your home.

Pets Who Look Like Their Owners Category: Jakub Gojda, "That Was a Good One!" Czech Republic

pets, animals, wildlife, comedy, dogs, cats, funny, photography, photos, viral photos, photography competition Pets Who Look Like Their Owners Category: Jakub Gojda, "That Was a Good One!" Czech Republic © Jakub Gojda/Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

"This photo was taken by accident during the photography of my ex-girlfriend with her beloved mare. For this cheerful moment, I thank the fly that sat on the horse's nose and he instinctively shook his head." – Jakub Gojda.

The resemblance is uncanny!

Highly Commended: Chloe Beck, "Hugo the Photobomber," Walsall, U.K.

pets, animals, wildlife, comedy, dogs, cats, funny, photography, photos, viral photos, photography competition Highly Commended: Chloe Beck, "Hugo the Photobomber," Walsall, U.K. © Chloe Beck/Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

"This is my best friend Faith, her husband Alex, and their cheeky Sproodle, Hugo. Faith wanted a photograph to mark a special occasion—her first outing after shielding at home for 14 months. Hugo jumped into the frame at just the right moment!" – Chloe Beck

Highly Commended: Luke O'Brien, "Mumford and Chum," Coventry, U.K.

pets, animals, wildlife, comedy, dogs, cats, funny, photography, photos, viral photos, photography competition Highly Commended: Luke O'Brien, "Mumford and Chum," Coventry, U.K. © Luke O'Brien/Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

"Losing the opportunity to play with my human bandmates during lockdown, Flint, my rescue dog, soon taught me that we didn't just have sharp bones in common, but musical ones, too. He soon became the perfect substitute for a collaborative stomp up at home, so much so that we felt we deserved our own band name (Muttford and Chum). With my camera set up remotely during this shoot, I think it's fair to say that the image is proof that his conviction as a performer matches my own." – Luke O'Brien.

Luke and Flint could have been strong competitors in the lookalike contest, if you ask me.

Highly Commended: Kathryn Clark, "Wine Time," Cichester, U.K.

pets, animals, wildlife, comedy, dogs, cats, funny, photography, photos, viral photos, photography competition Highly Commended: Kathryn Clark, "Wine Time," Cichester, U.K. © Kathryn Clark/Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

"It's that time of day again! Little Blue enjoys it almost as much as me." – Kathryn Clark.

This cat just gets it.

Highly Commended: Diana Jill Mehner, "Crazy in Love With Fall," Paderborn, Germany

pets, animals, wildlife, comedy, dogs, cats, funny, photography, photos, viral photos, photography competition Highly Commended: Diana Jill Mehner, "Crazy in Love With Fall," Paderborn, Germany © Diana Jill Mehner/Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

"This is Leia. As you can see, she definitely loves playing with all the leaves in autumn. It was really tricky to take this picture because you never know what the dog is going to do next." – Diana Jill Mehner.

Highly Commended: Christine Johnson, "Boing," Crosby Beach, U.K.

pets, animals, wildlife, comedy, dogs, cats, funny, photography, photos, viral photos, photography competition Highly Commended: Christine Johnson, "Boing," Crosby Beach, U.K. © Christine Johnson/Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

"I was busy playing with my dog on the beach and this dog came to play. I liked the shapes he was making in the air." – Christine Johnson

Highly Commended: Manel Subirats Ferrer, "Ostrich Style," Platja del Prat de Llobregat, Spain

pets, animals, wildlife, comedy, dogs, cats, funny, photography, photos, viral photos, photography competition Highly Commended: Manel Subirats Ferrer, "Ostrich Style," Platja del Prat de Llobregat, Spain © Manel Subirats Ferrer/Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

Nuka playing hide and seek at the beach. Hey, we've all buried our head in the sand at one point or another.

Highly Commended: Colin Doyle, "Nosey Neighbor," Bromsgrove, U.K.

pets, animals, wildlife, comedy, dogs, cats, funny, photography, photos, viral photos, photography competition Highly Commended: Colin Doyle, "Nosey Neighbor," Bromsgrove, U.K. © Colin Doyle/Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

"According to Ozzy, we need a new fence panel ASAP. He is fed up with Chester our nosy next door neighbor spying on him every time he has a meal." – Colin Doyle.

There's a lot going on in this one, but the hidden camera is what really makes it a winner.

Highly Commended: Corey Seeman, "A Warm Spot on a Cold Day," Michigan

pets, animals, wildlife, comedy, dogs, cats, funny, photography, photos, viral photos, photography competition Highly Commended: Corey Seeman, "A Warm Spot on a Cold Day," Michigan © Corey Seeman/Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

"Two of the morning regulars at the dog park are Gary (hound mix with the jacket) and Kona, one of the most chill dogs ever." – Corey Seeman.

Highly Commended: Lucy Slater, "So What?" San Diego, California

pets, animals, wildlife, comedy, dogs, cats, funny, photography, photos, viral photos, photography competition Highly Commended: Lucy Slater, "So What?" San Diego, California © Lucy Slater/Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

"This is how I like to sit!" – Vincent the cat

Highly Commended: Mollie Cheary, "Photobomb," Poole, U.K.

pets, animals, wildlife, comedy, dogs, cats, funny, photography, photos, viral photos, photography competition Highly Commended: Mollie Cheary, "Photobomb," Poole, U.K. © Mollie Cheary/Animal Friends Comedy Pet Photo Awards 2021

'"Bailey was so excited to see her friends, she couldn't sit still for a photo!" – Mollie Cheary

The photos are hilarious and adorable, but you might wonder: What's the point of all this?

The founders have actually given that quite a bit of thought. According to the website:

"Lots of people ask us why we do the competition and what we are trying to achieve. This is an epic question. So, we’ve had a really good think, (with tea and biccies obvs) and come up with this: 'Through the Comedy Pets, we want to promote positive awareness of animal welfare issues and celebrate the incredible and valuable contribution that pets can and do have on our lives.'"

So you're actually doing a lot of good by viewing, laughing at, and even sharing these photos. Great work!

This article originally appeared four years ago. It has been updated.,

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Best Horse Category: Mary Ellis, "I Said 'Good Morning,'" Platte River State Park, Nebraska

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Pets Who Look Like Their Owners Category: Jakub Gojda, "That Was a Good One!" Czech Republic

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Pets

The kitty was so soaked but so happy.

HarPURR is truly a one-of-a-kind kitty.

"Dog people wish their dogs were people. Cat people wish THEY were cats."

He's a regular gold retriever.

We wuvs his doctor.

What makes a good vet?

People are rolling at Spud's…uh…"enthusiasm" for finger fruit.

The 2021 crop of winners remains legendary.

Overall Winner: Zoe Ross "Whizz Pop," Penkridge, U.K.

Best Dog Category: Carmen Cromer "Jurassic Bark," Pittsboro, North Carolina

Best Cat Category: Kathrynn Trott "Photobomb," Ystradgynlais, U.K.

Best Horse Category: Mary Ellis, "I Said 'Good Morning,'" Platte River State Park, Nebraska

All Other Creatures Category: Sophie Bonnefoi, "The Eureka Moment," Oxford, U.K.

Junior Category: Suzi Lonergan, "Sit!" Pacific Palisades, California

Pets Who Look Like Their Owners Category: Jakub Gojda, "That Was a Good One!" Czech Republic

Highly Commended: Chloe Beck, "Hugo the Photobomber," Walsall, U.K.

Highly Commended: Luke O'Brien, "Mumford and Chum," Coventry, U.K.

Highly Commended: Kathryn Clark, "Wine Time," Cichester, U.K.

Highly Commended: Diana Jill Mehner, "Crazy in Love With Fall," Paderborn, Germany

Highly Commended: Christine Johnson, "Boing," Crosby Beach, U.K.

Highly Commended: Manel Subirats Ferrer, "Ostrich Style," Platja del Prat de Llobregat, Spain

Highly Commended: Colin Doyle, "Nosey Neighbor," Bromsgrove, U.K.

Highly Commended: Corey Seeman, "A Warm Spot on a Cold Day," Michigan

Highly Commended: Lucy Slater, "So What?" San Diego, California

Highly Commended: Mollie Cheary, "Photobomb," Poole, U.K.