This week marked a big one in the electoral calendar and while much of the nation deliberated over who to vote for in the European elections, the rest of us were looking out for... well, photos of dogs of course.
1. Dogs At Polling Stations.
Every time the British public has to vote on something, the photos of furry friends at polling stations come flying in thick and fast ā providing much-needed relief from the fractured political landscape. And these snaps from Thursday are too good to be missed. (Iāll say it time and time again, we do not deserve dogs.)
We could look at these pics ā of which there are many ā all day.
2. Backwards Dog.
One poor German Shepherd is slightly traumatised by a past experience which involved him running straight into a glass patio door (weāve all been there. Well, I have anyway and can confirm itās traumatic).
Now heās too scared to go through doorways head-first, so heās devised a unique (and clever) strategy...
3. Mental Health Moggies.
In heartwarming news, two rescue kittens from Mayhew have been instrumental in the recovery of a teen with severe anxiety and suicidal thoughts.
After being signed off from school and spending time with the kittens, called Rafiki and Zazu, 12-year-old Amyās mood was significantly improved and her panic and anxiety attacks have become less frequent. She is also looking forward to returning to school in the future, which her mum Sophie believed would never happen.
āThe kittens gave Amy a reason to get up in the morning, and a reason to smile,ā Sophie said. āShe now laughs at their funny games and gives them cuddles; and she is already a much happier person all round. Having the kittens to love has made a huge difference to Amyās mental health.ā
4. Pets Vs Diet Food.
Nine overweight cats and dogs are about to embark upon a six-month diet and exercise challenge via the PDSA Pet Fit Club. (Who knew this was even a thing?!) The winner will receive a yearās supply of healthy food and an animal-friendly holiday.
Among the contestants is seven-year-old Alfie, a Labrador from Liverpool who is nearly double his ideal weight at 9st 7lb; Bonnie, a spaniel from Blackpool whose penchant for sausage rolls has left her 7.7kg overweight; and Sox, a large cat from Gateshead, who once got stuck in a childās safety gate due to her size.
Good luck, gang.
5. Saying Goodbye To Two Legends.
This week was a sad week for fans of cats, big and small ā firstly, we heard of the sad passing of 95-year-old Judith Kerr, the author who penned many childhood favourites including The Tiger Who Came To Tea and Mog books.
Then, Edinburgh Zoo revealed Jambi the Sumatran tiger has passed away at the age of 16, after experiencing health issues related to his age. The zoo said he was put to sleep so he didnāt have to endure suffering. Rest in peace.
