Animals

In Cheyenne, Wyoming, a young boy is being celebrated as a hero for his courageous actions on July 9th. Six-year-old Bridger Walker intervened in a dangerous situation, placing himself between his little sister and an aggressive dog. His bravery resulted in him receiving 90 stitches to his face.

According to a social media post by Bridger’s aunt, Nikki Walker, the boy was bitten multiple times on his head and face while trying to protect his sister. Bridger’s selfless act involved grabbing his sister’s hand and running with her to safety. Bridger later expressed his thoughts on the incident, saying, “If someone was going to die, I thought it should be me.” His statement reflects a profound level of sacrifice for someone so young.

Nikki Walker’s Instagram post about Bridger’s heroism included tags to some of his favorite Marvel Cinematic Universe actors. Mark Ruffalo, known for his role as The Hulk, was among those who responded with a heartfelt message:

“Dear Bridger, I just read about what happened to you and wanted to reach out. People who prioritize the well-being of others above themselves are the most heroic and thoughtful individuals I know. I deeply admire your courage and your heart. True bravery is not about dominating others or appearing tough, but about doing what is right even when it might cause you harm. You exhibit more bravery than many I have met. With admiration, Mark Ruffalo (Bruce Banner/Hulk/Professor) 💪❤️👏”

Nikki Walker later updated followers on Bridger’s condition, noting that despite his injuries, he remains in high spirits. Although he can’t smile fully yet, he was visibly happy as she read some of the supportive comments to him.

The story of Bridger’s heroism has gone viral, and many have inquired about ways to support him. In response, Nikki Walker has suggested that instead of sending donations, people could contribute to Mission 22 or the Wounded Warrior Project, organizations that assist wounded veterans.

Additionally, Bridger has a passion for science, particularly geology, and he would love to receive photos of interesting rocks. Anyone who wants to send rock pictures can do so at:

Bridger Walker
P.O. Box 22141
Cheyenne, WY 82003

Sending a small gesture like rock photos to a young boy who demonstrated extraordinary bravery for his sister is a fitting way to honor his selflessness. We wish Bridger a swift recovery and hope he enjoys the outpouring of support and love he is receiving.

An 83-year-old woman’s life was saved thanks to her loyal cat, Piran, who alerted rescuers after she fell down a 70-foot ravine.

The woman had been missing for some time when her neighbors noticed Piran’s frantic behavior. He was repeatedly meowing and pacing back and forth at the gate leading to a maize field, prompting neighbor Tamar Longmuir to investigate. “The cat’s actions led me to search the field,” Longmuir told Sky News. “Without Piran’s insistence at the gate, it might have been much longer before we checked there.”

The ravine, described by BBC News as having “incredibly difficult access and uneven terrain” with a stream at the bottom, posed a significant challenge for the rescuers. Fire crews managed to navigate the treacherous conditions to reach the woman, who was then airlifted to a nearby hospital in stable condition.

Bodmin Police hailed Piran’s actions, declaring, “Piran the cat saved the day!” His heroic efforts not only saved his owner but also set a remarkable example of a pet’s loyalty and bravery.

 

After far too many years apart, a beloved dog has finally returned to the family she was taken from.

Ginger, a sweet pup, was stolen from her family in 2017. Her owner, Barney Lattimore from Janesville, Wisconsin, never gave up hope that one day he would find his beloved dog. Whenever he spotted a dog that looked even vaguely like Ginger on rescue websites or at humane societies, he would reach out to see if it could be her. Sadly, time after time, it wasn’t. Still, he persisted, and that persistence ultimately led to the heartwarming reunion he had been waiting for.

On May 1, the City of Beloit Police Department shared a post on Facebook about a dog they had found and asked the public for any information. Lattimore saw the post and immediately felt that this dog could finally be his long-lost Ginger. He learned that the dog had been transferred to the Humane Society of Southern Wisconsin while they searched for her owner.

Filled with nervous excitement, Lattimore rushed to the Humane Society, hoping against hope that this dog was his Ginger. After five long years, it was impossible to know what she had been through or whether she would still be the same dog he remembered. But none of that mattered to Lattimore—he just wanted his dog back.

When he arrived at the Humane Society, his prayers were answered. There, right before him, was his dear Ginger. The moment they saw each other, it was as if no time had passed. Both were overwhelmed with joy at being reunited.

The Humane Society of Southern Wisconsin shared the touching story on its Facebook page:

“Over 5 years ago, Ginger was stolen from her owner, Barney. Ginger’s family tried everything they could to get her back. They continuously searched for her, and every time they saw a dog that resembled her in the slightest, it reignited their hope that maybe it was her. Throughout the years, they adopted new dogs and even welcomed another child into their home, but they never forgot about Ginger.”

The post continued, “Recently, the Beloit Police Department posted on Facebook about a stray female dog, hoping to reunite her with her owner. She was eventually brought to HSSW, where we could continue the search. After a few days, we received a call from Barney, thinking it was Ginger! When he arrived, staff led Barney to the back of the shelter, and as soon as they saw each other, there was no doubt. The excitement on the family’s faces, as well as Ginger’s, when they were finally reunited was unforgettable. Ginger is back with her true family and now has the chance to meet her new ‘pack’ members and make up for lost time!”

Lattimore responded to the post, saying, “I thank everyone. Prayers do get answered—she’s back home and doing well. Thanks again for the love and support. All of you are amazing, and I love you all.”

This beautiful story shows that persistence can pay off and that nothing can break the bond between a dog and a human. Barney and Ginger are proof that love and determination can lead to the happiest of reunions.

 

Dogs can be quirky creatures, each with their own unique personalities that sometimes leave their owners scratching their heads in confusion. 

One such dog is Milton, a pit bull who has developed the amusing habit of sneaking around his house on tiptoes. While his intentions remain a mystery, it seems Milton’s stealthy antics are part of an ongoing (but often unsuccessful) plan to outwit his human companions.

Danielle Tholen, Milton’s owner, shared with The Dodo that his tiptoeing behavior began around the age of 7 months. Concerned that something might be wrong with him, she took him to the vet. However, it turns out Milton’s odd behavior isn’t due to any health issue—he’s just hilariously bad at sneaking around. Despite being quiet enough to move silently across hardwood floors, Milton’s large size gives him away, especially when he tiptoes right in front of people.

But shhhh…in his mind, he’s a master of stealth.

Tholen explained that Milton’s sneaky behavior often serves a purpose: he’s on the lookout for opportunities to steal food, whether it’s snatching something off the floor, raiding the trash, or just being ready in case a morsel falls. “He’s sneaky,” she says in a video, describing how Milton’s tiptoeing has become a regular occurrence over the past two or three years, though it was more sporadic when he was a puppy.

Milton’s slow-motion sneaking is a sight to behold, as he cautiously makes his way around the house in his quest for forbidden treats. His peculiar approach to stealth is both endearing and amusing, keeping his owner entertained as he carefully (and slowly) attempts to satisfy his foodie ambitions.

 

Adopting a pet from a shelter is a decision that benefits not just the animal but also the adopter and the community at large. This act of compassion creates a ripple effect of positive outcomes, making it a triple win for all involved. Here’s why choosing to adopt from a shelter is a powerful choice and why the need for adoption is more pressing than ever.

A Win for the Pet

First and foremost, adopting a shelter pet gives an animal a second chance at a loving home. Many pets in shelters face uncertain futures, with some living in overcrowded conditions or waiting for months, if not years, for a family to choose them. By adopting, you offer a pet a new lease on life, moving them from a stressful shelter environment to a warm, caring home where they can thrive. The transformation in a shelter pet’s demeanor and health once they find a loving family is often profound, highlighting the immense positive impact of adoption.

A Win for the Adopter

Choosing to adopt a shelter pet also brings numerous benefits to the adopter. Many people find that having a pet provides immense emotional support, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being. The bond formed with a rescue animal often brings joy, companionship, and a sense of purpose. Additionally, adopting from a shelter is generally more affordable than purchasing from breeders or pet stores, as shelters often cover initial veterinary costs and offer reduced adoption fees. The satisfaction of saving a life and the joy of welcoming a new family member are invaluable rewards.

A Win for the Community

Shelters are crucial resources for animal welfare, and adopting from them helps alleviate the strain on these organizations. Overcrowded shelters often struggle with limited resources and funding, which can impact their ability to care for animals and perform essential services such as spaying and neutering. By adopting, you directly contribute to easing the burden on shelters, allowing them to focus their efforts on rescuing more animals and improving their facilities. Your adoption also helps break the cycle of overpopulation and reduces the number of animals that face euthanasia due to space constraints.

The Growing Need for Adoption

The need for shelter pet adoption has never been greater. Economic uncertainties, natural disasters, and changes in housing situations have led to an increase in the number of animals surrendered to shelters. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted pet ownership dynamics, leading to more animals in need of homes. Many shelters are experiencing record-high intakes, while their resources remain stretched thin. This heightened need underscores the importance of adopting rather than purchasing pets from breeders or stores, as every adoption helps alleviate the pressure on these critical organizations.

Making a Difference

Adopting a shelter pet is a simple yet powerful way to make a difference. It’s a compassionate choice that enriches lives, provides essential support to shelters, and contributes to the well-being of the community. As the need for adoption grows, the positive impact of each adoption becomes increasingly significant. If you’re considering adding a furry friend to your family, visiting a local shelter and choosing to adopt can be one of the most rewarding decisions you ever make.

In summary, adopting a shelter pet is a triple win: it benefits the animal, the adopter, and the community. With the ongoing challenges faced by shelters and the increasing number of pets in need, your decision to adopt can have a lasting and profound impact.

Robyn Moscrop, a 27-year-old who has always been fond of bull terriers, decided to adopt one three years ago, naming him Bronson, according to Wales Online. Although Bronson proved to be a challenging puppy, Moscrop adored him immensely.

“He was such a lively dog, full of personality, and left an impression on everyone he met,” she shared with Good News Network. “He kept me on my toes, and I’d often wonder why he wasn’t as well-behaved as other dogs.”

Moscrop indulged Bronson, even organizing large playdates with up to 20 bull terriers, ensuring he lived an extraordinary life.

Tragically, Bronson passed away unexpectedly last July at just 3 years old, leaving Moscrop heartbroken.

While at the crematorium, Moscrop was informed that she could incorporate Bronson’s ashes into a tattoo. She asked her boyfriend, George Ricketts, to create a tattoo using the ashes mixed with ink. Despite his nerves about the task, Ricketts worked diligently for eight hours, producing a flawless tribute.

The tattoo has been a source of comfort for Moscrop, helping her cope with Bronson’s loss, as it makes her feel as though he’s still with her.

“Sometimes I find myself talking to the tattoo as if I’m talking to him,” she told the New York Post. “It might sound strange, but when I’m out and wearing a t-shirt, I think, ‘He’s here with me, seeing all of this too.’”

Although incorporating ashes into a tattoo may seem unusual, it’s part of a broader trend of using them creatively—whether pressing them into vinyl records, transforming them into glass art, sending them into space, or incorporating them into a fireworks display.

These practices are about honoring a loved one’s memory and aiding in healing.

Grieving the loss of a pet can be as profound as losing a human loved one, notes Frank T. McAndrew, a psychology professor at Knox College, in The Conversation. However, there are fewer cultural rituals to help people cope with the loss of a pet.

For Moscrop, the tattoo has been a meaningful way to keep Bronson close, and she’s found solace in welcoming a new bull terrier, Alabama, into her life.

“If I didn’t have my new dog, it would be really hard to talk about him,” she admitted. “But with Alabama here, she’s helped fill the void he left and made the healing process easier because losing a dog is incredibly painful.”

 

Bears may look adorable, with their chubby bodies and fluffy fur, but approaching one is a definite no-go for most people. Despite their cuddly appearance, bears are wild animals with survival instincts that can make them dangerous.

As human development continues to push into wildlife areas, encounters with bears are becoming more common. These interactions often involve bears rummaging through trash or exploring vehicles while people sleep peacefully inside their homes. Recently, a Connecticut family experienced an unexpected bear encounter of a different kind: a hibernating bear under their deck.

Vincent Dashukewich discovered the surprise when he took his dog outside. His dog began to act unusually, growling at something beneath the pool deck. When Dashukewich investigated, he found a sleepy black bear lounging comfortably underneath.

Dashukewich shared with ABC News, “He’s been super chill. I’ve checked on him a few times, and he hasn’t really moved. He’s looked at me a few times, but he’s pretty calm right now.” The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection advised that as long as the bear isn’t causing any trouble, it’s best to let it be. They expect the bear, whom they’ve nicknamed Marty, to leave by the end of the month.

If Marty begins to pose a problem, the family can contact wildlife officials for assistance. While having a bear like Marty under the deck might be unsettling for some, there’s no denying that he’s quite the cozy sight, at least from a safe distance.

 

Perhaps the whimsical scenarios in kids’ movies where animals engage in human-like antics when their owners aren’t around might have some basis in reality. While GoPro footage of pets often fails to reveal any wild parties or secret conversations, it’s fun to imagine that our furry friends might be more in tune with human activities than we give them credit for.

Take, for example, a German Shepherd named Storm who recently demonstrated a surprising affinity for rock music. In Inglewood, California, Storm took matters into her paws when she decided to attend a Metallica concert without her owners’ knowledge.

When Metallica rolled into town, Storm apparently couldn’t resist the lure of the live music. She slipped out of her yard and made her way to SoFi Stadium, where she found a spot among the audience to enjoy the show. Initially, onlookers were concerned, thinking Storm had been abandoned. However, Metallica quickly cleared up the confusion with a social media update, revealing that Storm was simply a devoted fan. She had sneaked out of her home to catch her favorite band live.

“After rocking out with her #MetallicaFamily all night, Storm was safely reunited with her family the following day. She had an amazing time listening to her favorite tracks, including ‘Barx Æterna,’ ‘Master of Puppies,’ and ‘The Mailman That Never Comes,’” Metallica posted.

The band also took the opportunity to remind fans not to bring their dogs to concerts, humorously warning against any similar future escapades.

While it might not be a great idea to take your dog to a heavy metal concert, you can still share your love of music with your pet. Crank up the volume, play your favorite tunes, and let your dog enjoy your air guitar solos in the living room. After all, who knows? Maybe your pet will develop their taste in music and have their secret gigs with the neighborhood dogs.

 

Jack Russell terriers are known for their hunting instincts, boundless energy, and stubborn nature. Despite their challenging traits, their loyal and affectionate demeanor makes their quirks endearing.

In a recent story, a Jack Russell terrier’s bravery was on full display. According to the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, on August 20, 61-year-old Susan Lee was walking her Jack Russell terrier and a labradoodle on a trail near her home in Strafford when she noticed a black bear watching her.

The situation escalated quickly: Lee stumbled on a stone, causing the bear to charge at her, leap on top, and bite her leg. Rather than fleeing, her Jack Russell terrier stayed by her side, barking fiercely at the bear. The commotion prompted the bear to retreat into the woods, allowing Lee to escape with her dogs.

The Jack Russell’s tenacity and noisy defense were crucial in driving the bear away. Despite the bear’s substantial size—up to 660 pounds—compared to the terrier’s 17 pounds, the small dog’s actions made a significant impact.

Game Warden Sgt. Jeffrey Whipple described the dog’s response as “ninja-like” and suggested that without the dog’s intervention, the bear might have caused more harm. Sgt. Whipple speculated that if the terrier hadn’t been there, the bear might have inflicted greater damage before eventually retreating.

Bear Biologist Jaclyn Comeau, who examined the scene, noted that the bear was a female with cubs and likely felt threatened by the presence of Lee and her dogs. Vermont has an estimated 4,600 to 5,700 black bears, but bear attacks in the state are rare, with only three recorded incidents. Comeau advised that while encounters are uncommon, it’s important to remain calm and back away slowly if confronted by a bear, and to defend oneself if attacked.

Lee was transported to the hospital where she received treatment for her bite wound and other minor injuries. Fortunately, her dogs were unharmed. The fate of the bear remains unknown.

Believe it or not, pit bulls were once among America’s most beloved pets, known for their excellent temperaments and loyal nature. Many people are surprised to learn that despite their tough reputation, pit bulls have a temperament test score of 87.4%, only slightly lower than that of golden retrievers.

Unfortunately, for the past 50 years, pit bulls have been struggling against negative stereotypes and misinformation. However, a positive shift seems to be on the horizon.

Pit bulls have been unjustly targeted by a decades-long smear campaign. Originally, these affectionate dogs were bred from bulldogs and terriers to help manage livestock. Unfortunately, some individuals exploited the breed for dog fighting, which led to a misunderstanding of their true nature.

In reality, pit bulls are like any other breed—they will behave according to their training. If raised to be friendly and obedient, they will be, just as easily as they could be trained to follow commands like “sit” or “paw.”

The misconception that pit bulls are inherently aggressive is often fueled by misidentification, where dogs of other breeds with similar physical features are wrongly labeled, according to the American Pit Bull Foundation.

Recently, efforts to correct this misinformation have gained momentum. Many pit bull owners, affectionately calling them “pibbles,” report nothing but positive experiences, despite some minor issues like chewed-up shoes and enthusiastic affection.

Organizations and advocates, including those from shelters and popular media, are working to improve the breed’s image. The Villalobos Rescue Center, for instance, has played a significant role in changing perceptions through its docuseries “Pit Bulls and Parolees,” which highlights both the challenges and successes of pit bull rescue. The series even documented the impact of stringent breed-specific laws in California, which forced the organization to relocate to New Orleans.

Thanks to shows like “Pit Bulls and Parolees” and the dedicated work of shelters and veterinarians, more pit bulls are finding loving homes instead of facing euthanasia. Despite some states still enforcing strict laws against the breed, advocacy groups and pit bull supporters are actively challenging these regulations.

Breed discrimination is not new, with other breeds like Dobermans, Rottweilers, and German shepherds also facing negative stereotypes in the past. However, the stigma against pit bulls has proven particularly enduring.

Pit bulls, like any other dogs, deserve a fair chance. Responsible training and care are essential for all breeds, and no breed should suffer due to the actions of a few irresponsible individuals. National Pit Bull Awareness Day on October 29 serves as a reminder of the progress still needed and the love these dogs have to offer.