Jubilant and Amazing Raccoon Family Found at Backyard Feast
Jubilant and amazing raccoon family and skunks, possums, and birds visit us daily. Everybody we know has spoken poorly of raccoons for the last 20-25 years. Even our cat turned up one day. A few weeks later, she had five of the cutest kittens. We kept one, and three friends took the others.
Normally, we buy twelve bags of cat kibbles, which last about a month to six weeks, depending on how many visits each night. We sit outside with them in the summertime and have never been bitten or scratched. They take it very gently.
The raccoons love peanut butter cookies, and we keep a good stock of them. Years ago, we had this vast window put in to enjoy our outdoor family. We also built an 8-foot high block wall to level our backyard, then an 8-foot high lattice wall with a 6×2 walkway, which the squirrels and raccoons use. And the birds love our thick hedge. It’s surprising how many people look upon the raccoons as wild animals and talk about shooting them.
These nightly visits have cultivated a unique ecosystem in our backyard and fostered an unexpected bond between humans and wildlife. Over time, the variety and frequency of these visits have increased, indicating mutual trust and understanding developed over countless shared moments. This unique interaction enriches our lives and supports the local wildlife.
Observing these animals up close fosters a greater appreciation and respect for nature and its myriad creatures. It serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between urban living and wildlife conservation, urging us to consider the impact of our actions on our non-human neighbors. And ongoing commitment to coexistence and care has turned our backyard into a haven. We love it when raccoons, skunks, possums, and birds visit us daily.
A Glimpse of a Tranquil Wildlife Haven.
View from a large window overlooking a lush backyard, a sanctuary for local wildlife.
A jubilant and amazing raccoon greets us at the doorway.
Peeking in for treats, this raccoon makes a friendly visit to a home’s patio door.
Raccoon Feeding Platform in the Garden.
A four-bowl feeding station for raccoons, skunks, possums, and birds nestled among lush greenery.
Family dinner time for a jubilant and amazing raccoon family.
Three raccoons share a meal on an old table, surrounded by greenery.
Family dinner time for a jubilant and amazing raccoon family.
Essential supplies for feeding backyard wildlife stored neatly.
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Cat Loves Going on Walks
My cat Maui always follows me when I walk my dog, Bagel. She loves to come with us. – Sheila Pollack
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Daisy is Cute and Smart as Can Be
My pet is 20 months old. Cute as can be and smart. Daisy thinks everyone loves her. Our neighbor gives her treats and makes her sit and gives her a paw. Daisy is a Maltese/ShihTzu & she doesn’t shed. – Jane & Robert, Florida
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We Love Frannie
This is Frannie, who we were fortunate enough to adopt from a local shelter. – Leland Hach
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We All Adore Kiko the Cat
This is Kiko. He is two months old. We rescued him in Benron, PA, at my sister’s cabin. He instantly bonded with my granddaughter and is so loving. He was the perfect addition to our pet family. We all adore him. – Jason Yulich
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I Wanted to be a Witch!
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Fly is Our 3 Year Old Mallard Duck
This is my three-year-old pet Mallard Duck named Fly, she is best friends with Pecky despite her being a chicken! She is very intelligent and friendly around humans. She loves to be petted and listen to me sing, along with that, some of her favorite things include swimming, scaring sparrows, and playfully fighting over food with Pecky and the ducks. Like all of my six other pets, she is deeply loved and cared for by me and my family. – Skyer Haddock
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Meet Bailey Ann, Our Main Coon
Bailey Ann, my black and white Maine Coon cat was adopted in 2014 when she was 14 months old. She was a mother but her four babies had all died. I named her after my Grandfather Yocom’s grandfather Anna Bailey who lost at least four of her young children. – Kathy Dehen
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Pardon the Toilet Paper
Meet Fletcher my Havanese… pardon the toilet paper on his face..lol…favorite pastime! – William Bailey
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Our Girls Are Ready to Party
My name is Miss Molly (I’m on the right in the photo) and these are my two girlfriends… Molly and Roxie. I am a 6-year-old Maltipoo and I live with my Mama. I hope you like our party kerchiefs and feature us in Pet Pals… my friends and I would like that very much. Your friend… Miss Molly – Eileen Shiman
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Jack the Roof Dog
Jack the Roof Dog checking out the neighborhood for cats and friends. – Geraldine Ihli
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BoBo Likes to Play Games
BoBo is my 12 yr. old “cute” rescue dog. Each morning he grabs his empty bowl and starts running thru the house. I have to chase him for several rounds, then hide until he finds me. Then I get a kiss from him on the cheek and he gives me the bowl. “The Game” is his favorite daily activity. – Nancy Berger
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Say Hi to Colonel Mustard
This is Colonel Mustard. My grand-niece got him as a kitten but couldn’t keep it where she lives so she gave him to her grandparents. He is 5 yrs old and weighs 18 lbs. If he had a ruff you would think he was a lion cub. He loves to lay in boxes, but his greatest love is visiting the elderly housing near his home. And YES, they love him also. – Jeannine Aucoin, Henniker, NH
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Our COVID-19 Rescue Pet
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Mingo Rescued from St. Croix
Hi, this is Mingo a Siamese mix that I adopted from Real Cruzen Cats a rescue that traps and homes feral cats in St. Croix. She loves feather wands and purrs non-stop! Just wanted to mention about peanut butter on bananas as a dog treat to always make sure it doesn’t contain Xylitol which is deadly to dogs – Carol, Exeter NH
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Our Guard Dog
Shadow, our labradoodle guarding the front door. – Susan Pieper, New Braunfels, TX
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Bridget Loves to Cuddle
This is Bridget, a Shih Tzu/poodle mix (I think). We rescued her about a year ago from the Humane Society here in Omaha, NE. She is about 2+ years old. Last December, I lost my husband and she has become a lifesaver for me. We are Best Friends. No matter what room I am in, Bridget is right here beside me. A big plus: She loves to cuddle at night in “our” bed. – Teresa Cavanaugh, Omaha, NE
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Mylie is Loving & Laid Back
This is Mylie my grandchildren’s 18 yr old Border Collie. The most loving & laid back dog you’ll ever meet. She greets you with a wagging tail & lots of kisses!
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Riding the Catnip Sleigh
This is Sasha, my 5-year-old kitty, taking a ride on his catnip sleigh! I adopted him when he was 6 weeks old along with his mom, Sofya, a stray who had 6 kittens only days after being rescued off the street. Sasha and Sofya look exactly alike. Love your column! – Karen McCarthy, Longmeadow, Mass
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My Classroom Assistant
Here is a picture of my classroom assistant: Attie Cat. I am a high school math teacher and Attie Cat is helping me teach from home. – Judi Bookhamer
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Rosko is a Catahoula Leopard Dog
This is our favorite pet. His name is Rosko and he is a 6-year-old Catahoula Leopard dog. He loves to swim and retrieve. He’s very sweet and amazingly smart. – Catherine West, Van Nuys, Ca.
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This is Malcom & Tumbles
This is Malcom (black) and Tumbles (orange tabby). Malcom is very shy and before we adopted him, he hid in a box at the shelter. We decided that he needed a therapy pet and after a long search, we found Tumbles, a friendly and confident cat rescued from the streets of Baltimore. The minute we introduced these two, Malcom stopped hiding and started playing more. In these photos, Malcom is sweetly playing and Tumbles is watching from above. Even therapy pets need some alone time. – Joanne Bates Crimmins
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This is Otter
This is Otter (Lab, Bernese, Great Pyrenees, and Border Collie mix) on his birthday. He’s not a fan of hats. – Amy Tepel, Morrison, CO
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Nogard, The Cricket Slayer
Please meet Nogard – The Cricket Slayer. Nogard recently passed unexpectedly, but he was an excellent bearded dragon who liked his crickets! Nogard is a family name that goes back to my Great-Great-Great-… just kidding! Nogard is Dragon spelled backward and as Game of Thrones taught those that watched, every dragon needed a proper name, so we added – The Cricket Slayer. RIP Nograd, you were loved and you are missed. – Scott Kempf, Novato, CA
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Jake, the Faithful Cattle Dog
This is my faithful cattle dog, Just Jake, who came into my life as a handsome, retired five-yr-old. The boisterous family of boys next door sends lots of balls over the fence and Jake, the herder that he is, happily brings them to me. – Jackie Hanson, Whittier CA
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Nice and Cozy
Tena Elkins sent in a photo of her cute Wily the Labrador cozied up on her couch! He looks so relaxed and comfortable.
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Hello Pixie
This is Pixie our 7-year-old Cat. We rescued her and her also solid black littermate when they were just kittens. Black cats seem to be the least favorite when it comes to adoption. Pixie hates to be brushed and her long fur tends to get matted. So now we take her to Indiana Bones in Simi Valley to have her shaved about once or twice a year. Doesn’t she look adorable? – Marion Erbe, Simi Valley
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Bringing Lady Home
Lady’s dad and mom, Jim, and Terry Piel drove from New Hampshire to an Ohio shelter to bring Lady home. Once unhealthy and terribly underweight, Lady now enjoys the woods and fields of New Hampshire, the ocean, and especially camping.
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Dessie is Destined to Be Mine
This is a picture of my “Dessie”, who is a Yorkie, Shih Tzu mix. We had lost our 16 yr. old Westie, and I was so sad. My husband, son, and I had gone to a local car show and a lady was holding this tiny little puppy. My son and I fell in love with it. She said there was one left in the litter. My son surprised me by getting the lady’s phone number and calling her to request it. That was my Christmas surprise gift that year from him. I called her Dessie because she was “destined” to be mine. – Kathy Steele
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Meet Hilton, Our German Shepherd
Our 3-year-old black and tan German Shepherd is named Hilton. We were vacationing on Hilton Island, SC, and found a family with a litter of pups for sale. What else could we have named her but Hilton? – Cheryl D. Coffman
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Patches Takes a Nap
Hi, this is Patches a Jack Russell mix taking a nap after playing with his toys. He is 11 years young and was named Patches because his fur looks like patches all over his body. He is the center of our Family and so glad we rescued him as a puppy. Enjoy – Patty & Danny Flores
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Three Dogs and A Cat
Tena Elkins sent in a photo of her three dogs and a cat. From left to right: Buck the dog, Lily the dog, Smokey the cat, and Wily the dog with her blanket.
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This is Our Little Loretta
This is our little Loretta, a 3-year-old Mini Dachshund/Jack Russell mix rescue. Her “superpower” is to tell me when my blood sugar is too low (I have insulin-dependent diabetes). Her obedience skills are “pretty” good. She just can’t resist giving kisses sometimes, so we say she can’t “hold her licker” and, she LOVES little kids! Her best silly trick is to “whisper”. (She really does it!) She is smart and funny and the best cuddler ever! She’s trying out her Auntie’s special water treadmill made for dogs and rocking her shark fin life jacket. – Susan Finck
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Jessie is a Real Character
Here’s Jessie. Jessie lives with us in Rancho Murieta, CA. He’s a real character, who we rescued from an RV Park about a year ago. He chases our dogs, watches television, and, as you can see, loves to ride in the car. – Nancy Jackson
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Mitsu the Shih Tzu
Lucinda Wasson sent us a photo of Mitsu the Shih Tzu who loves to travel!
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We Found Archie
Several years ago Archie was found tied to a fence and abandoned. He is now the king of all he surveys living with Sue and Jim Dow on 37 acres in Weare, NH. – Jean McGiffin
This is Our Cooper
This is our Cooper, he’s a Cairn Terrier and we adopted him from a shelter after living on the streets with his mother and sister until he was 9 months old. He is super smart and very lovable!
Aries, First Zodiac Sign
Thomas M. sent in a photo of his rescued cat Aries. She has beautiful eyes and, although her coat is black, there’s a small patch of white on her chest. As the first sign in the zodiac, the presence of Aries always marks the beginning of something energetic and turbulent.
Meet Teddy the Pug
Cathy M. from Long Island, NY sent in a photo of her 13-year-old pug Teddy, taking a gingerly walk outside in the cool weather. Teddy likes to eat vegetables and fish. He also likes to rub his face in the grass.
Logan Says Hello
Gracie M., from Levittown, NY sent in a photo of her newly adopted female cat named Logan. Logan is a Tuxedo cat, so she’s always ready for a formal affair. She also loves to play fetch.
Jack + Lady Edith
Nancy Powlas, of San Antonio, TX sent in a photo of her two darling cats Jack and Lady Edith as they relax atop the kitchen table.
Lucy Misses Her Mommy
Dear Readers, this is Lucy, my Boston Terrier. She is 13-years-old and misses her mommy because she’s got a broken hip.
Meet Duffy the Chihuahua
Dear Readers, this is my daughter, Mallory’s, long-haired Chihuahua named Duffy. He keeps me company while she is away at college. — Stephanie, Augusta, Maine
Flaky + Sweet Kiffle
Dear Readers, this is our rescue kitten, Kiffle. He is named after an Eastern European pastry that is both flaky and sweet. As you can see from the photo, he has a flaky side and he is definitely a sweet boy! — Jane Hudak, San Antonio, TX.
Sebastian the Ragdoll Cat
Dear Readers, this is Sebastian, a Ragdoll, owned by R. Jaske, Bakersfield, CA.
Meet Atom + Brother Ripley
Dear Readers, this is Atom, our cat, and his brother Ripley, our treeing walker coonhound. — Alan Almanzar
Hobie, Nestor + Bosco
Dear readers, these are my 3 rescues sitting nice — Hobie, Nestor, and Bosco. Happy Fall! — Cheryl from NH
Say Hi to Sadie
Dear Readers, this is Sadie, a 6-year-old terrier mix, who was adopted from Animal Defense League. She is sweet, friendly, loves any moving thing, even her cat siblings. — Nancy Pawlas
Coco the Cat
Dear Readers, this is Coco. She is a twelve-year-old Calico that is sweeter than pecan pie. — Gary Philips
This is Dax
This is Dax, a 7-year-old German Shepard, playing with his new pal, 6-month-old Chase, a Belgian Malinois. Both live in Drums, Pa. — Tim Charter, owner.
Hello Spike
Dear Readers: This is Spike, my happy 4-year-old rescue. – Judith Thompson
Meet Lily + Chloe
Dear Readers: Lily, sweet 15-year-old grey-and-white purebred Maine Coon, adopted at 6 months from a rescue group, when her family threw her out in the winter because she went into heat. Chloe, a sweet 14-year-old adopted at 9 months after delivering 5 kittens. She spent those first 9 months as a feral cat. Rescued just before delivery of the kittens. Everyone wanted the kittens, but I wanted Chloe. — Janice Williams
This is Sargent Friday
This is Sargent Friday, aka Sarge. He was a rescue, and He loves everyone! Because he routinely visits many of our neighbors, they have nicknamed him “The Mayor”. In fact, we have met most of our neighbors because of him. – Nancy Zahornasky, Londonderry, NH
Our Grand Dog Pippa
This is Pippa, our grand-dog, in the pose she does when she wants a belly rub or special treat. She’s ten-years-old. Our daughter has had her for about nine months, but she is “family” to all of us. She’s a Lhasa Apso. Love your column! – Judy Kaufman
Cute Pet Milo
This is Milo, a blue heeler/Aussie shepherd rescue from Oklahoma. This was his “official” photo for a Cutest Pet Contest fundraiser for the local ASPCA. He won first place! We think it was the ears that put him over the top.
Rescued Dog Georgia
Hello, I would love you to put up our newly rescued dog Georgia as your pet of the week! She was rescued from a high kill shelter in Georgia, hence her name! She was super skittish at first but has now really gotten used to her new loving home. – Sincerely, Yvette Zuckerman
This is Tia
This is Tia, we rescued her from an animal shelter in 2019, she was 3 years old and had lived her whole life there! She weighs ten pounds and is the cutest little calico girl. She is such a joy to have with us, follows us around like a little puppy dog. I feel like she knows that she was given a second chance and knows that she now has a Mommy and Pappy that will take good care of her! — Deb Nenninger, Florida
We Found Maggie May
“My wife and I found Maggie May in a cage in Sebring Florida Animal Control. She was picked up running nose in Lake Placid, Florida. She was scared and we had to carry her to the car. She is now very spoiled. Whenever someone comes to visit, she greets them by finding a shoe and bringing it to them as a gift.”
Meet Our Baby Squirrels
I thought you might enjoy these pictures of the baby squirrels in our Squirrel House.
Benny, Our Pride & Joy
This is our pride and joy, Benny. He is a 2-year-old miniature long-haired dachshund. His favorite hobbies are riding on the golf cart and chasing squirrels up trees.
Fur Baby, Theo
This is my fur baby, Theo. His daddy is a Husky, and his momma is a Chocolate Lab. He is eight months old now, and he weighs 65 lbs.
Happy Birthday Ticker
My dearest friend is Ticker, who just had her 17th birthday. We celebrated with a “cake.” She came from a family that didn’t want her anymore.
His Nickname is Mr. Love
Here is our kitty, Willoughby. We found him five years ago in an RV park. He had been left behind by a family on vacation. He’s the sweetest boy who is so endearing; in fact, his nickname is “Mr. Love”!
We Love Sadie Mae
This is our Sadie Mae (named after Sadie Hawkins day), a 7-year-old Bichon Frise whom we love dearly.
Our Little Buddy, Charlie
Diane K. sent in pics of her little buddy, Charlie, who, after mastering his mountain of toys and putting everyone in their place, is ready for a nap. Such a cutie!
Happy Little Guy, Rocky
Meet Rocky. He’s Rod G. of San Antonio’s 14-year-old deaf rescued Jack Russell. Rod says he’s a happy little guy, and they have helped each other through some tough times.
Highly Intelligent Shepard
Dear Readers: Meet Audie! He is a Belgian Malinois. A type of highly intelligent shepherd, these dogs are used by the military and by the police.
Meet Tucker
Meet Karen G. from San Antonio, Texas and her almost-five-year-old Bichon Frise, Tucker! Her family has a long-standing tradition of loving Bichons; in fact her father the Colonel brought in the first of their Bichons.
Meet Georgie
Here’s our new puppy Georgie. She’s a very sweet Shihpoo (Shitzu Poodle).
This Is Our Rescue, Molly
This is our rescue, Molly, who has been a wonderful addition to our family! She is three years old and has taken a liking to reading in the window with her “friend”, a wonderful ceramic cat statue! – Heloise.
Sadie, Our Beloved Puppy
Hello, Heloise. This is our beloved puppy, Sadie, all 100% love wrapped up in a little bundle.
Hello Charlie Brown
Dear Heloise, he looks like an angel in this photo, but Charlie Brown is a 10-month-old beagle and a whirling dervish.
Brodie the Pug Puppy
Meet Brodie. He’s a pug puppy – a crazy Lil dude – according to San Antonio, TX dog mom Jessica and her son Gavin.
Winni Looks Cute & Cozy
Marian H. sent a picture of her neighbor Lexi having a moment with Marian’s dog Winni; looks cute and cozy!
Zoom, Border Collie Rescue
In 2008, Leslie adopted Zoom from Northern California Border Collie Rescue; he was one year old.
Abby the Tabby
Meet Abby the Tabby, perched and ready for bird watching in her cute sweater. A cat in clothes!
Meet Manny & Penny
Meet Manny and Penny! All dog mom Peggy Z. needs to say is “who wants to go for a ride?” and open the door.
Precious Angel
Marlene D. sent a picture of her precious rescued cat, Angel.
Siamese Hamish and Angus
Here is a picture of our two Siamese, Hamish who is a chocolate point, and Angus, a seal point enjoying a winter day in the recliner.
Stella Loves Her Big Brother
Stella (grey tabby) is a rescue and she really loves her big brother (Ricky Bobby).
Ace the Tuxedo Cat
Meet Ace. He’s a 9-year-old tuxedo cat who has a unique black heart on his tummy and a white “thumbs up” on his nose.
Meet Mr. Kitty
Meet Mr. Kitty. He’s one of our favorite Pet Pals – he’s getting a drink from the bathtub spigot!
Gracie from Georgia
Meet Gracie, adopted from Georgia, ready to brave the New England weather, sporting an adorable raincoat.
Run Away Ruby
Meet Angie C.’s Run Away Ruby. Two days after she adopted Ruby, in September of 2020, Ruby escaped from the yard and traveled two miles before being picked up by the police. For this, Ruby landed on Santa’s Naughty List!
Abby the Cat
My cat, Abby was leaning against the mirror when I looked up and caught this image that looked like two of her! I just happened to have my phone handy to snap this picture.
Cats Max and Coco
Gary P. in Laguna Hills, CA sent a picture of his cats Max and Coco, relaxing, on top of each other?
Molly and Jon Stewart
Our dogs Molly (lab mix) and Jon Stewart (terrier mix) are putting 2020 “behind” them.
Meet Dodge the Lab Mix
Dear Readers: Meet Dodge. He is Leigh B.’s (of Ohio) lab mix, and he looks like he’s ready to “get out of Dodge” as it were – the cold and snow of January!
Precocious Siamese KeKe
For this week’s Pet Pal, we are revisiting Ke-Ke, Leo and LeEtta’s precocious Siamese cat, in Culbertson, MT. Leo was working at home, as many of us are nowadays, and Ke-Ke just had to jump up on the desk and chase the cursor on the screen – such a silly girl!
Say Hi to LuLu & Duncan
Meet LuLu (foreground) and Duncan. Both Rat Terriers, are taking turns receiving treats from the neighbor in the next complex. Very patient playmates!
Here’s Pepsi
Meet Pepsi. Pepsi is a spaniel/pointer mix, and her name at the shelter was Hiker; she almost hitchhiked a ride home with another lady, before Tracy, Elise, and Joanna C. and their family adopted her!
Here’s Ollie
Dear Heloise: This is my dog Ollie, a happy and spry pup who turns 11 next month! She also goes by “Smalldog.” I got her in December 2010.
Puppy Pug Hazel
Meet Hazel. Trent B. in San Antonio, TX says his puppy Pug Hazel takes a hard nap after playing hard at 5:30 am! Play hard, and nap hard? Sounds like the life! Is she dreaming about Santa’s visit? And, oh, that Puppy Breath!
My Name is Cosmos!
My name is Cosmos! I’m a 15-year-old Himalayan in Portland.
Hizzy, a True Alley Cat
Meet Hizzy. Hizzy showed up in our backyard in September, a true “alley cat”, a very hungry kitten. Look closely at his feet, he has seven toes on one foot, and six on the other – polydactyl kitty.
Say Hi to Lexi & Dolli
Meet Lexi and Dolli. Owner Sandee says they are such good buddies!
Meet Sweet Tiger
Meet Tiger. John M. sent two pics of this white and tortie-colored cat. So sweet, with big eyes. Tiger’s sitting by a clock reminding us, the time we have with our pets is shorter than we would like.
Chloe from Catkins Animal Rescue
Dear Heloise: I adopted Chloe Z from Catkins Animal Rescue in Park Falls, Wisconsin, on March 25 and drove 2-1/2 hours to get her.
Kenny the Rescue Kitty
Kenny is my 3-year-old rescue kitty at 16.2 lbs. and over three feet long. He is half Maine Coon and half Siamese.
A Pair of Mourning Doves
Dear Heloise: A pair of Mourning Doves built a nest in a hanging plant on my sister’s deck.
Here’s Maddie the Diva
Meet Bruce M. of Wallingford, CT’s frosty-faced, 15-year-old diva dog, Maddie.
Meet Sneaky Pete
Darla H. in Punta Gorda, FL sent a picture of her cuddle boy, her beautiful brown, long-haired cat, Sneaky Pete.
Here’s Ninja
Hi Heloise! Here is a picture of my 21-year-old tabby named Ninja. He surprises me with his behavior – some days he seems like he’s slowing down and feeling his age but other days seems as spry as a kitten.
Meet King Cooper
Meet Cooper. He’s a King Charles and Shih Tzu blend, and Mom says he’s a true joy: he really does think he’s King! He looks happy sitting on his pillow outside on a crisp fall day.
Meet ‘The Apprentice’
Nora G. sent a pic of her beautiful and loving Amore. When he was young, he was nicknamed “the apprentice,” because he’d sit next to any workman in the house, and watch, as though he was learning.
Meet Jake
Meet Jake. Charlene G., via email, calls him The Perfect Pet – he is a Cavachon – a mix of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frise. Completely cute, Jake looks right at home on his comfy bed in the kitchen!
Darling Penelope
Meet Penelope. She’s a darling Chihuahua who was found as a stray.
Smiling Oliver
Patricia M. sent a picture of her sweet, smiling, seven-pound 13-year-old Chihuahua Oliver, lying on the patio.
Friendly Freddie
Michelle and Dave T. in Omaha, NE sent a picture of their six-month-old Morkie Freddie, celebrating his first Fourth of July. He is friendly and playful, and he LOVES everyone! He even tolerates his rabbit “brother” Mopsy.
Mom and her Twins
This week’s Pet Pals aren’t pets, just a majestic mama deer followed by her curious twins. In this picture captured by Carter and Vincent of Pittsburgh, PA, you can almost hear Mom saying, “Come on, you two … quit dawdling!” as they make their way through the backyard.
Meet Lucky
Meet Lucky. Frances R. in Mt. Angel, OR took in Lucky as a kitten, as says he is a great mouser. He’s also quite at home in her bathroom sink, as his picture indicates!
Say Hello to Tubbs
If you’re ever feeling down and in need of some encouragement, turn to Tubbs. Jay’s happy puppy Tubbs is a Shih-Tzu, age 3.
Duncan and Daisy
With today being DOGust the First, let’s meet a couple of Shelter Dogs, here in the offices of Heloise, Inc. It’s Duncan and Daisy – A sweet Rat Terrier and a sassy fawn Chihuahua.
Furry and Friendly Archie
Dan and Sherrie in San Antonio were feeling a bit lonely, so what did they do? They picked up a furry, funny, and friendly friend.
Noodle and Pox
Meet Noodle and Pox, baby hens!
Meet Kori
Dear Heloise, my name is Kori and I am a conure, from the parrot family.
Meet Lulu
Meet Lulu, a Yorkie puppy. She’s tiny but loved as if she were a giant blue whale.
Molly, Friendly Black Cat
Meet Molly, Gina F.’s friendly black cat, on the porch next to some pretty summer geraniums.
Meet Mr. Kitty
Meet Mr. Kitty, Becky in San Antonio’s long-haired, orange tabby, having a snooze on the bright white bed in the summer sun.
Say Hello to Jay II
Meet Jay II, Epping, NH’s Roger and Nancy’s 13-year-old black and white cat who is curious about everything. When they started camping in their RV, they didn’t hesitate to bring him along.
Patootie
Meet Denise R.’s Patootie, an adorable, smiling Terrier mix. She is ready to play!
Meet Brooklyn
Meet Brooklyn; she’s Krystal R’s five-year-old Yorkshire Terrier, looking super cute, at the camera!
Hello Gracie!
Kathy A. sent a picture of her rescued special girl, Gracie, who is a cancer survivor.
Here’s Kathleen
Meet Kathleen V.’s Weimaraner, Tilly.
Beautiful Snow-White Charmin
This week, Suzie’s sent in a picture of her beautiful, snow-white multipoo, Charmin. Suzie says Charmin recently lost her main human, PawPaw, and Charmin is grieving.
Zoe, Beautiful Brown Boxer
Meet Mary H’s Zoe, a beautiful brown boxer. Zoe’s veterinarian recommended putting petroleum jelly on her dry, crusty nose. Unfortunately, Zoe licks it off quickly. Giving her a treat immediately after applying it buys a little time for absorption, Mary says.
Meet Annie
Meet Annie, an 11-year-old beautiful blue-eyed white cat, belonging to Maria C. in Nebraska.
Storm Hunkered Down
Dustin M. in San Antonio, TX sent a picture of his gorgeous gray and black cat, Storm. Dustin found Storm hunkered down during a rainstorm (thus the name!), and she’s shown her gratitude every day since.
Max is a Pure Chihuahua
Debra A. in San Antonio sent a picture of her furry and funny friend, Max. Max is a pure Chihuahua, and he is 3 years old.
Here’s Buddy
Here’s Buddy, hiding in his favorite box on top of the refrigerator. Sandy D. sent in his picture.
Meet Mija
Meet Geri C.’s “Mija” (my girl in Spanish). She was running the streets of Santa Ana, CA and had a fractured pelvis and leg. The veterinarian thought she’s about two years old – a busy, active little Parsons Terrier Mix. It took a couple of months to get her settled into a routine. She’s the best dog!
Meet Mickey
Meet Mickey, Fred G.’s 16-month-old gorgeous German Shepherd, at home in New Braunfels, TX. Mickey is sorry to interrupt Dad’s relaxing on Saturday afternoon, but Fred really needs to throw the ball – come on, Dad!
Meet Gizmo
Meet Gizmo. Gizmo is Rosie M.’s 6-year-old Tibetan Terrier who loves daycare and tolerates taking photos while he’s there!
Meet Lizzy
Meet Lizzy in Alta Loma, CA, Perry, and Donna’s white, curly terrier mix. She is a miracle survivor of thyroid cancer!
Tigger Is Entertaining
If you want to learn how to relax, Teresa A. via email says, Get a cat! Tigger is entertaining and loves giving hugs. He showed up at her house one day, and HE rescued HER.
Beautiful Coco
Michelle R. in San Antonio sent two pics of her beautiful green-eyed, grey cat, Coco, majestically perched on the ladder where she can put the star on top of the Christmas tree!
Meet Molly
Meet Molly. George and Judy in Cypress CA have this mixed-breed, cute, white loveable Dog.
Pork Chop and Mr. Primrose
Meet Pork Chop and Mr. Primrose. These adorable guys are brothers. Pork Chop (orange cat) and Mr. Primrose are nine-month-old domestic shorthairs and live in Springfield, Ohio with owner Jo B.’s loving family.
Meet Lil Stinker
Meet Lil Stinker. He’s a little skittish; a Yorkie who had a kind of a rough start. He wasn’t with his ideal Pet Parent, but now he’s thriving in the New Year with the new owner, Djuana D.
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Batman and Robin
Meet Mike H.’s Batman and Robin, who were ready for Christmas, on Santa’s lap. They are both Chihuahua mixes, and both loved 100%. Surely Santa brought them everything they asked for!
Meet Baxter
Meet Baxter. Baxter is John C.’s Old English Sheepdog and he’s six. He weighs 100 pounds but looks bigger. He loves riding in the truck. He also loves people, other animals and, especially, baths.
Meet Madison
Meet Madison. Madison is a frosty-faced, 12-year-old female Golden Retriever. She enjoys hanging out in the backyard, drinking water, with her owner, Bruce A.
My Name is Madigan
Dear Heloise: I am a 4-month-old Irish Jack Russell Terrier, and my name is Madigan. I live in Houston, TX and Mommy (Gaye K.) wanted to share my new picture with you. Sincerely, Maddy.
Goose, Maverick, and Cougar
Meet Goose, Maverick and Cougar. They certainly run a tight ship, for owners Jeff and Dagmar T. in Dayton, OH!
Meet Polly
Meet Nancy L.’s Polly, in Simi Valley, CA. Polly’s a five-year-old Ragdoll, and a beautiful, wonderful kitty.
Meet Bleu Boy & Boots
Meet Bleu Boy and Boots. Bleu is a Doll-Face Persian. He is 8 yrs old. Boots is a Maltipoo who is six. These two are the bright spots in owners Doug and Katrina B’s lives.
Royce and Daisy
Meet Royce and Daisy. Dr. Katie S. adopted Royce and Daisy, and they are absolutely hilarious, Grandma Priscilla says.
Bouchal
Meet Colleen C.’s beautiful Rough Collie, her pride and joy, her sweetest boy, Bouchal (pronounced boo-kul). The word is Gaelic and it means “boy” (the word “bucko” is a derivative).
Meet Border Collie Lexi
Meet Border Collie Lexi. Jennifer M. and her family in Pittsburgh, PA adopted Lexi this year, and Lexi’s smiling; she’s pretty happy about her new family!
Perl and Minnie
Beth B. in Freeport, PA sent a picture of her Pittie girls sleeping together, Pearl on top of Minnie!
Skyler
Meet Skyler. She’s a five-year-old Cairn Terrier that Jack and Diane adopted a year and a half ago. She is smart and loves training; they adore her!
Melania
Cheryl G. In San Antonio adopted Melania, a four-month-old, five-pound half Piebald and half Chihuahua from a Rescue Group.
Soupy
Grandma W. Sent a picture of Soupy, short for Marsupial. She’d raised him from a baby after the veterinarian advised Soupy couldn’t survive on his own.
Cooper
Meet Cooper, Karen’s Maltese, fresh from the groomer. He looks quite handsome with his new tie. Five months old, and he RULES the house. That’s the way it is for the “only child” pet in her family!
Bonded Black Cats
Kathleen B. in North Port, FL. sent a picture of her two bonded black cats, both with white feet, snuggling on the chair.
Daisy
Meet Pamela F. In Grenada Hills CA’s Daisy. Daisy’s a nine-year-old inky Pomeranian and Chihuahua mix. Pamela takes Daisy everywhere, and Daisy’s loved by all who meet her.
Curious Turtle
A restaurant patron in Syracuse, Indiana snapped this picture of a curious turtle scurrying back into one of the many lakes in the area.
Meet Daisy
Meet Sammy. Sammy is the love of Donna’s life. He is eight years old and is a Coca-Poo. We’re guessing a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle? Soulful eyes, regardless.
Daisy May
Marianne M. sent a picture of her gorgeous green-eyed tabby, Daisy May, catching some rays, under the family rocking chair!
Meet Isabella
Meet Isabella. She is smart, gentle, loyal, and especially good looking, Mom Lynda C. can report. Isabella spent Memorial Day in the pool, in Dayton, OH at a family cookout!
Meet Sammy
Meet Sammy. Sammy is the love of Donna’s life. He is eight years old and is a Coca-Poo. We’re guessing a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle? Soulful eyes, regardless.
Jake and Jorge
AJ R. in Pennsylvania sent a picture of his two gorgeous boys, Jake and Jorge. They look cute sitting on the easy chair, but the question is, what happened to AJ’s other shoe?
Winni and Harvey
Marian H. sent a picture of her Yorkie-Poo, Winni, and Golden-Doodle, Harvey, a 110-pound gentle giant, meeting face to face and seeing eye to eye.
Jackson
Meet Jackson, Melinda B.’s new furry family member! She adopted him recently; he is 1/2 lab and 1/2 St. Bernard. He’s a real sweetie, Melinda says, and Jackson is already a certified therapy dog.
Stella
Leila sent a picture of her stunning grey and green-eyed cat, Stella, who is relaxing on the floor.
Shiner
Shiner’s relaxing, hanging out in the pool! Bianca in Live Oak, TX sent a picture of Shiner, cooling off in the kiddie pool, after running around the backyard.
Lacy
Meet Lacy. She’s getting her summer off to a great start, leaping and splashing into Lake Moxie in Maine. Lacy has some “Moxie”, doesn’t she?
Fuzzy
Meet Fuzzy. Joanne G. emailed a picture of her little white long-haired terrier Fuzzy, all dressed up for Cinco de Mayo, complete with a sombrero!
Kody
Meet Kody and Iroquois. Kody is a five-year-old lovable Keeshond. He loves hiking and loves his little buddy, the plush family mascot, Iroquois. Kody’s mom Donna is out hiking with this pair, by a sparkling stream.
Sam
Meet Sam. Marianne M. sent pics of her handsome, grey, green-eyed cat Sam, hanging out on his favorite blanket chest, alternately napping and watching the squirrels and birds outside.
Shaker, Martini, Margarita, Salt
Sheila and Eric N. emailed a picture of their family of four teacup poodles, from left to right: Shaker, Martini, Margarita, and Salt! More than one is always fun! They live in Venice, FL.
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Noah
Fran B. in Manchester, NH sent a picture of Noah, her seven-year-old grey and white cat. Fran says he loves to snuggle and is shown snuggled into one of those new pita pocket style beds.
Duncan
Duncan, a Pet Pal alum, is back after having his teeth professionally cleaned. He’s wearing the “Cone of Shame” so he won’t scratch his mouth. Pro cleanings are important to keep the mouth and teeth healthy.
Pancho
Daniel C. sent a picture of his stunning one-year-old Yorkshire Terrier Pancho on the couch, his favorite spot, looking out the window.
Chloe
Marilyn M. in Manchester, NH sent a picture of her Chloe relaxing on the couch.
Woofie
Angie H. in Kingston, NY sent a picture of her Woofie – he is sporting some waterproof dog boots and a rain slicker!
Lucy Belle
Linda M. sent a picture of her gorgeous, smiling German Shepherd, Lucy Belle, playing in the yard with some colorful balls.
Chloe and Dora
Susan K. in Rochester, NH sent a picture of her two Oriental Shorthair cats, Chloe and Dora, who appear to have merged into one.
Office Dog
Today’s Pet Pal is one of our Office Dogs catching a snooze.
Louie
Marjorie M. in Seabrook, TX sent a picture of Louie, her gorgeous all-black Bombay cat, who is friendly and talkative. Here, he is enjoying his new bed, on the desk in Marjorie’s home office!
Sophie
A reader sent a picture of her gorgeous, long-haired, green-eyed cat, Sophie, sitting on the front porch railing with beautiful, long white whiskers! Sophie’s the welcoming committee, apparently!
Smudgie
Trina S. shared a picture of her kitten “Smudgie“, adopted from Animal Care Services in Long Beach, California. Smudgie loves her red yarn toy.
Chipper and William
Pamela G. in Menifee, CA sent a picture of her two furry family members, Chipper and William, in their dog beds, each with a new toy from Santa Paws!
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Dixie
Meet Dixie. She was rescued by firefighters during the fires in Northern California and was adopted by Nancy J. once she made a full recovery.
Angel
Sharon B. in Houston, TX sent a picture of her brown and black, long-haired Chihuahua, Angel, resting on top of her snuggly toy zebra – too cute!
Petey
Cindy C. wanted to share her Dachshund, Petey.
Ziva
Doris H. sent a picture of her adorable six-year-old German Shepherd Ziva, wearing a headband of festive Christmas lights while being silly with her tongue sticking out!
Charlie and Scout
Patricia H. sent two pictures of her Charlie, a Shih Tzu, and Scout, a wire-haired Labradoodle, who sheds like crazy! They remind us of the yin and yang of a new year: Opposite but complementary, out with the old, in with the new. Big changes!
Clio
Jay and Dotty sent a picture of their perfectly blended, ten-year-old Jack Russell and Mini Dachshund, Clio. Clio, Dotty says, is a Pure American Brown Dog!
Todd the Toad
Todd the Toad has appeared to wish us all a Merry Christmas!