Mom cat adopts newborn puppy (The cutest thing you will see all day)

So I just came across this video from the Michigan Humane Society, about a days-old puppy who lost its mom (killed in a car accident) and was "adopted" by a cat who had recently had a litter of kittens and was still nursing.

This may be one of the cutest, sweetest things I have ever seen. And if that video -- and story -- doesn't warm your heart and make you smile, you either hate animals or are a robot.

FYI, the puppy, Bobby, a Chihuahua, is now 5 weeks old and still living with his feline foster family. No word as to whether Bobby is meowing or barking.

You may now return to your Monday.

The 7 dog groups revised to accurately reflect dog characteristics

As many dog show afficionados and watchers know, "each of the more than 150 AKC registered breeds and varieties are assigned to one of seven groups representing characteristics and functions the breeds were originally bred for."

Those seven groupings consist of:  the Herding Group, the Working Group, the Non-Working Group, the Sporting Group, the Terrier Group, the Hound Group, and the Toy Group.

Some of these groups are obvious to even us non-dog people. But many of these categories, or placements, are confusing. For example, there are terriers who are in the Terrier group and then terriers who fall under the Working and Toy groups. And weren't all hounds designed to be sporting?

So to more accurately represent dogs in a way that both dog lovers and laymen will understand, and appreciate (especially prospective dog owners), I propose the following helpful group names or designations:

The Drooling Group. Pretty self explanatory. Dogs in this group would include Boxers; Bulldogs; Newfoundlands; the Bullmastiff, Mastiff, and Neapolitan Mastiff; the Dogue de Bourdeaux; and the Saint Bernard.

The Hypoallergenic Group. For people who want to own a dog even though they or a loved one are allergic to them. Dogs in this group would include Poodles, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, the Xoloitzcuintle, the Portuguese Water Dog, Schnauzers, the Bedlington Terrier, and the Chinese Crested, the Peruvian Inca Orchid, and other hairless breeds.

The High Maintenance Group. These are dogs that require a lot of grooming. Dogs in this group would include Afghans, Poodles, the Komondor, the Puli, Old English Sheep Dogs, Bichon Frises, Maleteses and Shih Tzus (and many others).

The Noisy Group. Again, pretty self explanatory. Dogs in this group include Beagles, Chihuahuas, Dashsunds, Jack Russell Terriers, Yorkshire Terriers, German Shepherds, Basset Hounds, Lhasa Apsos, Miniature Schnauzers, Pomeranians, and Beagles (among others).

The Hyperactive Group. Not recommended for couch potatoes. Good for herding sheep and children and chasing things, like squirrels, ducks, and postal carriers. Dogs in this group would include Australian Shepherds, Beagles, Border Collies, Boston Terriers, Dalmatians, Irish Setters, Retrievers, Schipperkes, Weimaraners, and Whippets.

The 'Will Fit Under an Airplane Seat or in This Cute Handbag' Group. The ultimate lap accessory. Dogs in this group would include Chihuahuas, Pugs, Papillons, Yorkshire Terriers, and most "miniature" varieties.

The Fetch Me a Beer (Most Trainable) Group. Smarter than the average bear... or dog. Or at least more trainable. Dogs in this group would include Australian Cattle Dogs and Shepherds, Retrievers, Border Collies, German Shepherds, Shiba Inus, Airedale Terriers, and Corgis.

I know I'm leaving out a bunch of dogs, so feel free to suggest additional groups via the Comments section.

This month's best cat + dog videos

I don't know about all of you, but by this time on Monday, I am in dire need of a cute and/or funny cat (or dog) video. So as a public service, I give you the best cat and dog videos you will find online this month. (You're welcome.)

First up, "Ouvrez-Moi," wherein a cat attempts to convince a male human to open the door... in French (with English subtitles). Love this video.



And speaking of strange cats, this cat apparently loves to be vacuumed. (Our cats enjoy a good lint rolling, but vacuuming? Uh, no.)



Next, the reason the spouse and I are not getting a St. Bernard... even though they are very sweet dogs.



Finally, the award for Cutest Beagle Video of the Month goes to KLM, for "Lost & Found Service."



Makes you almost want to leave something on the plane next time you fly KLM.

A brief guide to cat and dog petting

Have you ever wondered if there was a right way or, perhaps more importantly, a wrong way -- or place -- to pet a cat or dog? A way that would not result in the cat or dog hissing or growling, or swatting or biting the hand that pets it? Well, wonder no more, people!

Thanks to the handy "Petting Chart for Your Cat" and "Petting Chart for Your Dog," you will never have to worry about how -- or where -- to pet your (or another's) cat or dog ever again.

(Okay, maybe you should worry a little bit about cats. After all, felines are notoriously fickle.)

Thanks to the spouse, who learned the hard way how to pet a cat, for sending me these charts.

The things cats have to put up with! (Namely dogs)

The things cats have to put up with -- namely dogs.

I mean, can't a feline just relax on the bed without being disturbed by some crazy canine?



Apparently not.

Don't puppies realize that cats need their 20 hours of rest and simply don't have time to play?



Silly puppies.

And when will dogs understand that cats rule (and dogs drool)?



What do cats have to do, put up a sign?

Blah blah blah

[Alternate title: Are you boring your dog?]

I know what you all are thinking: Blah blah blah. Another J-TWO-O blog post. Blah blah blah.

But bear with me. This is a good one.

Remember the Gary Larson Far Side comic strip "What we say to dogs. What they hear"? (In case you don't, here you go.)

Well, now, thanks to YouTube poster HappenNow02, we have proof that "blah, blah, blah" is exactly what dogs* hear -- and say to their masters**.



Once again, life imitates art.  

*and husbands
**wives

Cat shows dog who's in charge

I love this video titled "Cat taking the dog home."



I was also amused by the P.S. left by the cat's owner, DAFNA, "I did not train her to do this."

Of course you didn't, DAFNA. Cats do not need to be told -- or trained -- to put dogs in their place.

Indeed, cats innately know, from the time they are kittens, how to keep dogs in line.



Just give in, Murkin. As any cat owner* will tell you, resistance is futile.

* or member of Starfleet or Gulliver

Dog tested. Dog approved.

I'm a confirmed cat person, but I love a good dog ad. And Subaru's new "Dog Tested" campaign, which is airing during the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, is doggone funny.

First up: "Subaru Dog Tested: Intro"



Next, "Subaru Dog Tested: Breeds"



Love the hunting dog.

And finally, the "Last One."



Hey, no barking at the cat -- or chasing squirrels!

This is ruffing awesome

It's been, like, months since we've had a viral video that has inspired dozens of parodies. And I know you, like me, were beginning to worry.

But now, my fellow Americans, our long national nightmare is over (or beginning all over again, depending on your point of view).

I know I speak for over 90 million YouTube viewers when I say, Thank you Macklemore and Ryan Lewis (and Wanz) for giving us "Thrift Shop" (which is not safe for work or those with virgin ears).



More importantly, thank you, Pet Collective, for giving us Barklemore and the "Thrift Shop" parody "Pet Shop," which is barking adorable.


That was ruffing awesome.

(To see other "Thrift Shop" parodies, click here.)

Are you ready for some Puppy Bowl?!

Coming this Sunday, February 3, at 3 p.m. Eastern and Pacific Time on Animal Planet.... It's Puppy Bowl IX!



And now, for the first time ever, here is an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Puppy Bowl, titled "Any Given Puppy Bowl."



(For a true behind-the-scenes look at Animal Planet's Puppy Bowl, including some interesting facts and figures, read this fascinating article in Forbes.)

Sure, puppies are cute and fun to watch, but can they do something useful, like predict who will win the Super Bowl?

Let's go to the Late Night with Jimmy Fallon Puppy Predictor to find out!



Don't like that result, 49ers fans? No problem. Just check out the Animal Planet Super Bowl Puppy Predictor instead!

No matter which team you are rooting for, though, looks like a doggone good time.

Can you handle the cute?

I've had a crappy month -- and a migraine since some time early this morning. (I am a human barometer. If you want to know when a big storm is coming, just ask me.) So cute videos are about all I can handle today. That and getting my washing machine repaired. (You know how they say that laughter is the best medicine? Well cuteness -- and Rizatriptan Benzoate -- are a close second.)

First up, predicting which team -- the Baltimore Ravens or the San Francisco 49ers -- will win Super Bowl XLVII, using adorable golden retriever puppies!



I don't know what the Late Night with Jimmy Fallon crew put in those bowls, but I think the Puppy Predictor was rigged. (We are rooting for the San Francisco 49ers.)

Next, "Baby Panda Diagnosed with Acute Cuteness," courtesy of the San Diego Zoo. (Apparently Advanced Tickling is now a required course at veterinary school.)



I can't believe Xiao Liwu is six months old! Panda cubs, they grow up so fast.

And I'm not sure this last video, "Jedi Kitten with the Force," falls under "cute" or "disturbing," but I decided to include it anyway.


May the cute with you!

You pet owners will understand

I have a confession to make. I suffer from OLRD, Obsessive Lint Rolling Disorder. I just can't help myself. Whenever I see a few strands of cat hair, I have to lint roll them up.

Oh sure, I have tried other methods, but nothing gets fur and fuzz up like a trusty roll of sticky paper.

I love lint rollers so much, I have one in (nearly) every room of the house. And I am not afraid to use them.

I even lint roll my cats.

For years, I have kept quiet about my obsession, fearing no one would understand or that people would mock me. But after seeing this brilliant ad from Scotch-Brite titled "Lint Police," I know I am not alone.



I am so sewing on a "no lint" patch onto my black suit jacket.

Dogs make (almost) everything better

Once again, this blog has gone to the dogs.

But there is something just so doggone funny about a a cute canine photograph. And I don't know about all of you, but I have been in dire need of a reason to smile of late. So I asked a bunch of my dog-loving, dog-owning friends to send me funny or super cute pictures of their dogs. Which they did.

I hope these pictures make you smile as much as I did.

Oh, and if I left out a picture of your pooch, please email it to me. If I receive enough funny dog photos (that are not grainy, underexposed or overexposed) I will do a follow-up post.

First up, Bella. Just wook at dat wittle King Charles Cavalier Spaniel puppy face! I dare you people not to say "aaaaw."

Next up, Winston, aka Winnie the Pooh.

Now before you start shaking your head about Winston's mom putting a helmet and Doggles on him, read what she wrote me:

Just so you don't think I'm one of those people who dress up their dogs....I decided after watching [Winston] clunk his head and get goose eggs and cuts on his head... and getting poked in the eye... to become one of those people. My family is horrified. [However,] I will do what I must to make our blind Winnie the Pooh's life a little more comfortable.

I don't care what your family thinks, C. You're a good mom.

Though while we are on the subject of people who dress up their dogs, let us take a moment to admire Tillie, who let her humans dress her in this cow costume.Yet still loves them. (My cat, Felix, is disgusted.)

And behold this adorable pug, who is all heart.

Though I am slightly disturbed by the cannibalistic undertones of this photo of my friend N.'s pug, Pansy.

Ah, what could be sweeter than two dogs peacefully snoozing side by side, like Daisy Mayhem and Patsy Marie, my friend "Betty Cracker"'s two boxers?

Perhaps a lovable lab baring his, uh, twig and berries as he happily snores away on the couch, like my friend Vinny here?

Dogs sure do know how to relax.

Though lest you think that dogs are just a bunch of slackers, Zoe here wants you to know she puts in a full day's work -- and knows Photoshop.

But the best thing about dogs? They are always there to welcome you home with a great big hug.



I love that spot so much, I've been pestering the spouse to let me get an Irish Wolfhound. (Though that dog has at least a foot and probably close to 100 pounds on me. So probably not a good idea.)

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas from Raven, Dave S.'s whipador....

Give that dog some turkey!

I have heard of dogs begging for some turkey.

I have heard of dogs barking for some turkey.

I have heard of dogs who jumped up on the counter for some turkey.

But this is the first time I have seen a dog salsa dance for some turkey.

I give you... "Sloopy the Dancing Chihuahua"!



I wonder what Sloopy would do for a Klondike bar.

Hope Devin gave Sloopy some turkey. He deserved it after that performance. 

Puppy love

I love dogs. That is, other people's dogs. When they are cute and well-behaved and I don't have to take care of them. So when our friend, R., showed us these pictures of her dog Monty with their new puppy, Stella, I just melted.

How cute are they? (Just look at those noses!)

Of course, having cats, who, if presented with a new kitten would either a) swiftly swack it the moment it invaded the older cat's space/food bowl/litter box; b) call UPS to have it returned; c) express their displeasure in a variety of ways; d) ignore it; or e) all of the above, I was curious to know if Monty was at all jealous of the adorable new pup. Far from it, replied R. Indeed, Monty loves little Stella. Here is the proof:

How sweet is that?!

Now please excuse me while I go get an insulin shot.

[Thanks to R. and E. for sharing their puppy pics with me!]

More pet shaming

As a cat owner, it is amazing to me what dogs will put up with -- especially come Halloween.

You would never (okay, almost never) get a cat to parade around in a costume. Especially one that involved wearing a wig and a pair of glasses on its butt.



Yet that boxer actually looks happy about it! Shameful.

Though this may be my all-time favorite Halloween dog costume:

It's the ultimate Chia pet!

Yes, cats have too much dignity to allow themselves to be dressed up in some ridiculous costume -- or do some of the other totally undignified things that dogs are always doing.

That is, I though so, until I saw this embarrassing video of a cat playing fetch with its owner. Fetch, I tell you! Sure, any cat worth its whiskers would happily chase after a ball or other small object its human tossed, but to actually return said object to the human?! Shameful.



(For more awesome cat videos, check out the finalists for the "The Friskies" award.)

UPDATED: This may require a separate blog post, but I just had to share. From Friend of the Blog Donna, "Sexy Pet Halloween Costumes." 

Cats vs. Dogs

There's a battle being waged in this country, people. Not a battle between Democrats and Republicans, or even good versus evil, but between cat people and dog people. And the fur is flying.

Granted, this battle for feline or canine supremacy has been waged for hundred of years. But now the folks at Purina want to settle the score by asking Americans, "Is America a Cat or Dog Country?"* (Click on the link to vote.)

And while there are more dog-owning households in the United States than cat-owning ones -- 46.3 million households vs. 38.9 million, according to the 2011-2012 APPA National Pet Owners Survey -- that in no way means that dogs are better than cats.

Indeed, I believe I speak for cat owners and cat lovers everywhere when I say, Cats rule, dogs drool! And here's the proof.



You need more evidence? Here is scientific proof (sort of) that cats are better than dogs!



Heck, even dog owners think canines, especially their own canines, are't terribly bright. Hence the popularity of sites like Dog-Shaming.com. Which doesn't speak highly of dog owners. Seriously, you wouldn't see cat owners posting about cat shaming. (Oh wait...)



Don't get me wrong. I like dogs. They are loyal and (usually) sweet and (usually) trainable. But so are cats (except for the trainable part, though I have seen some amazing trained cats). And I have yet to meet a cat that chewed shoes, tore the place apart when his human left him alone for a few hours, destroyed objects at random, and had to be housebroken.

But if you want to make an argument for dogs, feel free to do so in the Comments.

*Though isn't part of what makes America so great is that we value diversity and tolerance -- that is, cats and dogs, hamsters and rabbits, guinea pigs and hedgehogs, snakes and turtles? Isn't there room enough in this great big country of ours for pet owners of all types? (Except for people who own chimpanzees and tigers; they're just crazy or stupid.)

The dog days of summer

I like summer, and I am pretty heat tolerant. But 95 degrees, which feels like over 100 when you factor in the humidity, is just too darn hot. (Definitely way too hot to be sitting in an un-airconditioned gym for two hours watching your eighth grader graduate. At least the girls can wear sundresses; the boys have to wear jackets and long pants.)

So, to help you cool down, I have provided a handy visual aid.

Just imagine you are a dog... with no job other than to look adoringly at your humans... who have kindly provided you with this big thing of cool water to jump in, again and again and again...



Aaah... I could watch that Boxer dog jump into that pool all day. Wish I could jump in with him.

Which bitch has the real...

(rhymes with "bits")?

I'm pretty sure it's not the one in the bikini...



































Btw, for those of you who do not regularly drool over "read" Sports Illustrated's Swimsuit Edition, that would be Kate Upton, a surgically enhanced* 19-year-old from Florida. And for those of you who do not regularly watch the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, that other picture would be Ch Protocol's Veni Vidi Vici, aka Fifi or the Fifinator, the bitch who won the Working Group (and a champion Doberman Pinscher). I will leave you all to figure out which bitch is which -- and who has the real tits.

[A quick aside re last night's Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show finale. I cannot believe the Pekingese, Malachy, won Best in Show. Best in Show? More like Best in Mop. Sheesh.]

*Can someone please explain what could compel a beautiful teenage girl to have totally unnecessary elective surgery? I find this trend very disturbing.

Best infomercial ever. (Vince has got a new Schtick!)

Ever since Billy Mays died and Shlomi "Vince" Offer (of Slap Chop and ShamWow -- or ShamWoe, as I like to call it -- fame) was arrested, infomercials have just not been the same. But now Vince is back with a whole new schtick -- or Schticky, to be more precise.



"You can clean your home in a quicky, when you use your Schticky!" (Schticky? I think someone's been spending too much time in Miami Beach with the altacockers.)

I gotta admit, though, after seeing the infomercial, I was tempted to order a Schticky (or four) -- as you all know how fond I am of lint rollers, and the environment. (That Big Schticky would sure come in handy for getting up cat hair under the bed!) But after the whole ShamWow incident (click on the link above), I'm not sure I'm ready to trust Vince again. Though I love the Schticky infomercial, and how it pokes fun at various misogynistic ads and Vince's run-in with the law.

What about you guys? Would you buy a Schticky?

Bonus video: I bet they could use some Schtickies at the Friskies Playhouse (the Playboy Mansion for cats?)!