This week we've seen a cat get adopted after 1,145 days in a shelter and a unique puppy born with an adorable difference.
We've also put together our weekly Pet of the Week lineup from our readers' submissions.
If you want your pet to be part of our lineup next week, follow the instructions at the end of this story.
The Winner
This week's pet of the week is Maizy, a rescue dog who went to live with her owner, Deborah Israel, three months ago after being adopted from a Los Angeles shelter.
"She is about a year old, extremely smart and loves to cuddle," Israel told Newsweek.
Maizy's DNA test revealed she's a delightful mix: 50 percent poodle, 25 percent German shepherd, 13 percent Great Pyrenees and 12 percent border collie.
The adorable pup, like many dogs, also has a love for peanut butter. In a new video, Maizy happily grapples with the sticky treat.
Jamie Whittenburg, veterinary director at Senior Tail Waggers' website, told Newsweek that while peanut butter is generally safe for dogs, "it should be given as a treat or to aid in medicating the dog and not as a major part of its diet."
Importantly, owners must avoid sugar-free peanut butter containing xylitol, which Whittenburg said is "highly toxic to dogs."
Maizy's antics with her favorite snack and her loving nature have brought joy to her owner's life.
"Isn't she adorable? Rescues are the best," said Israel.
The Finalists
First up this week is Rocky and Cheech, who live in Wisconsin with owner Jean Hollander.
"[Rocky] was about 3 years old when I got him. He is now about 10," Hollander told Newsweek.
Despite having some ill health, including cataracts and a bit of dementia, Rocky remains an excellent watchdog and loyal companion. "He's a mooch pooch," Jean joked, noting his love for food and constant presence by her side.
Cheech, who is around 4 years old, was adopted from a shelter. Despite having a heart condition, he is a loving and happy companion too. "His favorite things are chew bones and a squeaky pig," his owner said.
At 80 years old, Hollander cherishes her "old men companions" and is committed to giving them all the love and care possible.
"I will give them the love and caring I possibly can until they decide to move on," she said.
Next up is Moby, a 3-year-old goldendoodle and the newest castle dog at Newman's Castle, a tourist attraction in Bellville, Texas.
"My husband and I recently became caretakers of the castle," Amanda Welty told Newsweek. "Moby is very friendly and loves greeting guests."
Known for his playful nature, Moby enjoys chasing the resident ducks and running around the property.
"We've always jokingly called him our little prince due to his love of comfort and sleeping on pillows. Now, he actually is one," said Welty, laughing. The pup, she added, is a beloved addition to the medieval-style castle.
Last but not least is Jasper, a 3-year-old rescue dog who has become owner Janine Catrett's hero.
A retired, disabled Army veteran, Catrett, 53, told Newsweek that Jasper has been a lifeline for her.
"I deal with severe depression, anxiety and PTSD," she explained. Since she adopted Jasper in 2021, he has provided immense emotional support and even helps with her medical needs.
"He [has] alerted me several times to issues with my colostomy bag," she said.
Jasper's intuitive nature and unwavering loyalty make him a true hero in his owner's eyes. "I live one day at a time and would be lost without him," she said.
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
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