From a cat patiently waiting for her own gift on her canine brother’s birthday to the “love note” one cat left for her owner when she went traveling, we’ve seen a lot of heartwarming animal content online this week.
Readers have also been sending their pictures and videos of their pets for our Newsweek Pet of the Week lineup.
If you want your pet to be in next week’s lineup, follow the instructions at the end of this article to get involved.
Winner
Karen Sklenicka
This week our Pet of the Week winners are border collie Deacon and his feline friend Boo.
The pair live in Ball Ground, Georgia, with their owner Karen Sklenicka who recently caught them on camera playing one of their favorite games.
A border collie, Deacon has a strong instinct to herd, but in the absence of any sheep he uses the next best thing—the neighbor’s cat.
“They are buddies, and Boo comes over often,” Sklenicka told Newsweek. “I don’t own any livestock or other farm animals for Deacon to herd, so he satisfies his herding instinct with Boo, and Boo keeps coming back for more.”
Border collies have a strong herding instinct that stems from their history of being bred to gather, herd and protect livestock.
This instinct is so strong that border collies may try to herd not only animals but also people. A loving and active breed, they require plenty of attention and exercise to redirect their energy.
Finalists
Diane Labelle
Our first finalist this week is Willow, part Yorkshire terrier and part Chihuahua, who lives with owner Diane Labelle in Quebec, Canada.
“His favorite thing is chasing squirrels,” Labelle told Newsweek. “I love his gracefulness and his beautiful face.”
Melissa Shawver
Next up this week is Loki, an American bully who weighs 105 pounds.
“He is so smart and funny and stubborn all at once,” owner Melissa Shawver told Newsweek.
At almost 2 years old, he is a big fan of tennis balls and has managed to master the art of carrying two at a time.
“He now keeps trying for three,” laughed Shawver.
Darlene Bell
Last but not least, this week is 5-month-old short-haired border collie mix Ellie.
“She sits at the window looking out across the yard at our neighbors German shepherd every morning,” owner Darlene Bell told Newsweek.
“They both have invisible fences to keep them safe and out of the road that separates us,” Bell added. “I guess I should set up a play date.”
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to [email protected] with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.