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Golden Retriever Makes Cat 'Fall In Love' Again After Loss Of Family Dog: 'She Healed' Him (Exclusive)
A cat named Fred has found a new companion after grieving the loss of his longtime friend.
When owner Dayshun Stevens got Fred in 2019, she already had a 7-year-old golden retriever named Arthur, and the pet pair became "inseparable" within days, she tells PEOPLE.
"He just followed Arthur everywhere, and they did everything together side by side for the next four years," Stevens says.
Then, last August, the family suddenly lost Arthur after he developed a tumor that aggressively spread and ruptured.
Fred the cat and Sunny the golden retriever.Dayshun Stevens
"Fred didn't really look for Arthur after he died, but I could tell he was grieving," Stevens recalls. "He slept a lot, a lot more than usual."
Stevens says she and her husband were beside themselves over the loss of their beloved canine.
"Arthur was our entire life," she says. "He had been part of every bit of our daily routines for the last decade."
Fred the cat and Sunny the golden retriever.Dayshun Stevens
Three days after Arthur died, Stevens' husband showed her a picture of "this tiny fluffy furball golden retriever" and said he was on his way to pick her up.
"We just couldn't stand not having a golden in our home," she says. "We kind of had a sense that Fred felt the same, so enter Sunny."
Fred warmed up to the new pooch a few weeks after the family brought Sunny to their Colorado home.
Arthur the golden retriever and Fred the cat.Dayshun Stevens
"Fred was super curious," Stevens says. "He kept his distance initially unless she was sleeping, and then he'd approach her, sniff her, and get acquainted."
"Then, the wrestling and the chasing was on," she adds. "Fred really perked up, and he was having fun again. I think Sunny's puppy energy was a lot at first, but Fred has a ton of energy as well."
She says Fred had always wanted to wrestle with Arthur, but Arthur was "very gentle" with Fred and refused.
"Fred has finally met his match because Sunny is more than willing to roll and tumble around with him," she says. "They have a lot of fun together."
Last month, Stevens shared an Instagram Reel featuring some of the duo's sweetest moments.
Sunny the golden retriever and Fred the cat.Dayshun Stevens
"POV: Watching your cat fall in love with a new golden after losing his first golden friend," reads the text on the video.
"I'm so grateful for Sunny and the way she healed Fred's heart after he lost Arthur," Stevens captioned the post. "Their friendship is blooming in the rays of Sunny's light! It's so wonderful to see Fred love again."
Stevens says she can tell that Fred is "really bonding" with Sunny as they follow each other around and play all the time.
Sunny the golden retriever and Fred the cat.Dayshun Stevens
"I think Fred is really understanding now that Sunny is our family," she says. "As Sunny is maturing, she's calming down a lot more, and she's becoming a lot gentler with Fred. Fred is really protective of Sunny. If she cries or becomes alarmed by something outside and barks, Fred comes running to see if she's okay."
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"It really warms our hearts to see how much their relationship is growing," she adds.
Stevens says she's noticed Fred staring at Sunny and often wonders if he's thinking about Arthur since she's "identical" to the late canine.
"He's used to going on adventures with a golden and being at home with a golden, so I think he's just right at home with Sunny," she says. "I think he's finally feeling like his normal self again in his own routine with his dog."
Couple Find Dog With Broken Leg Days Before Their Wedding—Now He's 'Family'
A woman has described how an encounter with a badly injured stray dog days before she was due to be married ended up providing the best wedding gift of all.
When it comes to wedding gifts today, money talks. An online YouGovAmerica poll of 1.2 million U.S. Adults in 2018 saw 39 percent say that cash was the best wedding gift, ahead of 33 percent who favored picking an idea from the bride and groom's registry.
It's not clear what Alyssa or her husband Logan, who are from Texas, had planned with their nuptials, but chances are it didn't involve Campbell, the stray dog who would eventually become family one morning in late September of last year.
Alyssa told Newsweek they had just finished up at the gym and were grabbing a coffee when Logan spotted a dog "trying to cross seven or eight lanes of traffic on a very busy street."
"I immediately noticed the dog seemed to be limping or hobbling, and realized he was clearly already injured or had already been hit once," she said. The stricken pup ran from them, but was eventually cornered around the back of a shopping center. "That's when I got down on his level, sat on the concrete and began trying to coax him to come toward me," Alyssa said. "It took several minutes, but he finally limped over to me and collapsed in my lap."
They took the stricken dog to a veterinarian. At this point, their wedding was nine days away. "We were desperately hoping he had a home or family that loved him and was just lost!" she said. But that wasn't the case. "He had no microchip, no collar and was not neutered," Alyssa added.
Alyssa and Logan are seen on their wedding day. Campbell came into their lives unexpectedly just nine days before they were due to be married. Alyssa and Logan are seen on their wedding day. Campbell came into their lives unexpectedly just nine days before they were due to be married. Lyssa's LizardsUndeterred, the couple began posting photos all over social media in the hopes that they might be able to find his former home. "People on the Next Door app notified us that they had seen him running around the intersection and in parking lots two or days before we had found him," Alyssa said. "We assume the most likely possibility is that he was dumped in the busy area where we found him."
At the same time, Campbell was in desperate need of surgery on a broken leg. "This complex fracture was deteriorating his joint structure already and the vet warned us that if this wasn't surgically fixed very soon, the joint would collapse completely," Alyssa said.
Complex and expensive surgery was required, with local nonprofit Cody's Friends Rescue helping cover some of the costs while also setting up a GoFundMe page to help foot a bill of around $8,000. Yet there was never any doubt about proceeding for Alyssa and Logan.
Brought together in part through their love of animals, Alyssa—a content creator who posts about reptiles on social media under the handle @lyssaslizards—said that by then they "knew he was meant to be part of our family."
"We just felt so connected to him within that first week," Alyssa said. "It was as if the perfect dream dog we had always talked about had just fallen into our laps." They booked Campbell in for the surgery and returned their attention to their wedding and the honeymoon that followed, excited at the prospect of returning to take care of their new rescue pup who was looked after by her parents while they were away.
Fast-forward to now and Campbell's leg is fully healed, with the joint now fused together and bolstered by a metal plate. "Campbell can't bend that leg at the joint anymore like normal dogs can," Alyssa said. "However, he has adapted SO well and it doesn't hold him back or hinder him at all! He can run, jump, play, fetch and do all the normal puppy things."
Campbell was found with a badly broken leg. Alyssa said she was told he had spent several days living as a stray. Campbell was found with a badly broken leg. Alyssa said she was told he had spent several days living as a stray. Lyssa's LizardsCampbell was already potty-trained and capable of following a number of basic commands when he first moved home, which suggests he once had an owner. However, it's clear to Alyssa that his past experience wasn't an entirely positive one.
"Campbell has also shown some signs of being very frightened of oddly specific things," she said. "If I'm holding a shoe in my hand he immediately cowers in fear. He's also always noticeably cautious and concerned about potentially breaking anything in our home."
Despite this, his sweet, affectionate nature has shone through. "Campbell is truly the most genuine dog soul I've ever met," Alyssa added. "Honestly, the main thing he wants at all times is just to be near Logan and I. He LOVES people! And other dogs too. He's yet to meet a dog he hasn't liked or wanted to be friends with. He's sweet and gentle with kids and babies too, he just wants to love his people at all times."
A food-motivated dog who's known to get excited for his bedtime treat, Campbell's favorite thing to do in the world is play, with games of fetch and tug-o-war notable highlights. Campbell might not have come into their lives at the most opportune time, but Alyssa firmly believes everything happens for a reason.
"Finding Campbell rocked our world, put a dent in all our plans and changed our lives forever but he's also the best thing that has ever happened to us," she said. "We're so grateful he found his way to us."
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.
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.
25 Popular Rabbit Breeds You'll Instantly Fall In Love With
Who doesn't love the idea of a cuddly, soft pet that can curl up on your lap? If you're considering getting a rabbit as a pet, good news: We've collected all the info you'll need on some of the most popular rabbit breeds. From the sweetest mini rabbits to extra-large rabbits that tip the scales at 20 pounds (that's bigger than most cats!), we've got the lowdown on dozens of rabbit breeds to help you make the best decision.
Before adopting a rabbit, it's important to do your research. The American Rabbit Breeders Association is sure to be a valuable resource, with plenty of info on different breeds and where you can buy them. Despite popular belief, rabbits don't just sit in their enclosure all day. They need plenty of playtime with rabbit toys, as well as regular grooming and appropriate socialization. Rabbits can also be very sensitive, so they're not always the best pets for a home with boisterous young children. That said, there are plenty of rabbit breeds that are good family pets. It's also important to consider the fact that rabbits have a long lifespan, with some breeds typically living for more than 10 years.
If you're also considering a dog or cat as your next pet, don't miss our roundups of orange cat breeds, independent dog breeds, tall dog breeds, large dog breeds, and hairless cat breeds. We also have information on the best pet adoption websites if you're looking to get a pet from a rescue or shelter.
Holland LopThe Holland Lop is one of the most popular breeds, according to the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA). These dainty rabbits weigh no more than four pounds and are typically friendly and playful.
AEKKARAT DOUNGMANEERATTANA - Getty Images
Mini LopAlthough the name implies that these rabbits might be smaller than the Holland Lop, the Mini Lop can actually weigh up to six and a half pounds. They're stocky and compact and tend to be easy to train since they're very intelligent.
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DutchAnother one of the most popular breeds is the Dutch rabbit. They have a distinctive white and black coat and weigh no more than five and a half pounds. They tend to be easygoing and calm, making them great pets for families with children.
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LionheadThe lionhead rabbit has a gorgeous, full mane of fur that grows around their head. They require more grooming than most short-haired rabbit breeds to keep their mane healthy. These rabbits are very social with both people and other bunnies.
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French LopHow cute are those floppy ears? The French lop is a larger rabbit, typically weighing between 10 and 15 pounds. If you want a cuddly pet, this might be the breed for you. They bond quickly and have been known to follow their owners around, begging to be snuggled.
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CalifornianThis breed was developed in Southern California in the 1920s. They're easily recognized by their white fur with dark brown or black spots around the nose, ears, feet, and tail. Californian rabbits have docile personalities, which generally makes them easy to handle.
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Netherland DwarfThese teeny-tiny rabbits are almost too cute for words. The Netherland Dwarf rabbit generally weighs about two pounds and can be shy and nervous when it first comes to a new home. These bunnies are best suited for a home without young children since they're easily frightened by loud noises.
Catherine McQueen - Getty Images
English LopFun fact: The English Lop has the longest ears of any rabbit breed. They're also the first lopped rabbit, with origins in the early 19th century. These rabbits are usually easygoing and not very active since their ears can make it hard for them to jump, climb, or walk.
Bethany Clarke - Getty Images
Mini RexThese adorable rabbits weigh less than five pounds and have a plush, velvety coat. The Mini Rex rabbits are relatively low-maintenance pets, though they do need to be handled gently due to their small size. With proper care, you'll have a cuddly little friend for the next eight to 12 years.
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Flemish GiantFlemish Giant rabbits are extra-large creatures who often weigh more than 20 pounds. They're believed to have originated in Belgium in the 16th century and were exported to America in the early 1890s. As pets, they need a larger cage and plenty of supervised time to roam around for exercise and socialization. They also need a diet with plenty of roughage.
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Blanc De HototThis striking rabbit looks like it's wearing liquid eyeliner. It's a rare breed, but if you can find a Blanc de Hotot rabbit, you can expect to have a very sweet and docile pet. These gentle bunnies tend to live longer than the standard rabbit lifespan of eight to 12 years, so be sure you're committed to taking care of this pet for many years to come.
by Patricia Gee - Getty Images
HavanaThroughout history, Havana rabbits have been prized for their velvety, plush fur. They weigh no more than six and a half pounds and typically have a playful and sweet temperament. They do well indoors and outdoors and tend to make good family pets.
Gabrielle Banovac - Getty Images
HarlequinHarlequin rabbits are one of the oldest domesticated rabbit breeds. They're playful, friendly, and have minimal grooming needs, making them a good option for first-time rabbit owners. However, they're very energetic and social, so owners should be prepared to give them at least three to four hours of supervised playtime outside of their cage each day.
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TanThese rabbits have gorgeous glossy coats. They're very high-energy and can be skittish, so it's best for them to live in a home with adults who have some experience raising rabbits. The majority of the Tan rabbit's diet is hay, and owners should supplement with pellets, fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens.
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French AngoraThere are at least 11 varieties of Angora rabbits, including the French Angora. These rabbits have a specific gene that allows their fur to grow rapidly, around one inch per month. They're truly beautiful animals, but that extravagant coat means that owners need to be diligent about grooming so the fur doesn't become tangled.
Martin Harvey - Getty Images
RexAnother popular rabbit breed is the Rex rabbit. We've already highlighted the Mini Rex, which weighs less than five pounds. The Rex is slightly bigger, with a maximum weight of 10 and a half pounds. They're beloved for their dense, soft coat and their friendly personalities. These bunnies make for great family pets since they're typically fine with children (though kids should always be supervised when they're playing with or caring for a rabbit).
RELATED: Get the Most Up-to-Date Pet Health and Care Info Here
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ThriantaThe Thrianta rabbit, which was developed in Holland, is a great breed for first-time rabbit owners. They're gentle, sweet, and aren't particularly high-maintenance. They're also a good option for apartment dwellers since they do well indoors or outdoors. Of course, they need plenty of time outside their enclosure, no matter where you live.
Georgia Evans - Getty Images
Giant ChinchillaDespite the name, this isn't technically a chinchilla. The Giant Chinchilla is a rabbit, and it was developed in the 1920s to produce the prized Chinchilla fur on as large a pelt as possible. They can weigh up to 16 pounds and have the nickname "The Million Dollar Rabbit," since the man who developed them was the first and possibly only individual to make a million dollars for the sale of rabbit breeding stock, according to ARBA.
Mary Swift - Getty Images
Checkered GiantIf you want a rabbit that will get along with your other pets, such as cats or dogs, consider a larger breed like the Checkered Giant. They are very energetic and active, so owners should be prepared to spend lots of time playing with them. While these rabbits are gentle and friendly, they're generally less affectionate than other rabbit breeds.
RELATED: Unique Dog Name Ideas That Are Truly One-of-a-Kind
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AmericanThese sweet bunnies were developed in 1917 and typically weigh anywhere from nine to 11 pounds. American rabbits can be a little skittish around people; for this reason, they're not recommended for homes with small children. While these rabbits can be energetic, they tend to be more docile and will love hanging out around the house with you.
Arif Amin / 500px - Getty Images
Mini SatinThese teeny-tiny rabbits weigh less than five pounds! They typically have round, full heads and can live happily in apartments since they don't need much space. Mini Satin rabbits are docile, calm, and sweet and typically live for five to eight years.
Naruden - Getty Images
RhinelanderRhinelander rabbits were developed in Germany in the early 1900s. The markings on their fur are reminiscent of a calico cat. It's easy to train these rabbits to do tricks like standing on command, jumping over items, and even walking on a leash. You can also train them to use a litter box.
Riocool - Getty Images
Belgian HareThe Belgian Hare rabbit has a very distinctive look, with ears that point straight up and reddish-brown fur. These bunnies are agile, intelligent, and need lots of stimulation to stay happy. That said, they're also sensitive animals, so owners should be careful about handling them and work to understand their rabbit's body language. Once you and your Belgian Hare are bonded, you can expect to enjoy seven to 11 years of companionship.
Andia - Getty Images
English SpotHow pretty is this rabbit? The English Spot rabbit was first introduced to the U.S. In 1890 and quickly became popular because of their energetic temperament and beautiful looks. If you adopt one of these rabbits, you should be prepared to make sure it gets plenty of exercise. They're a running breed, so it's in their nature to zoom around.
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CinnamonThe Cinnamon rabbit has a beautiful short fur coat and a docile personality. These rabbits tend to be easy to care for, making them a great choice for first-time owners. They mostly groom themselves, and like most rabbits, their diet is mostly hay. They also do best when they have another bunny of the same breed for companionship, though you should make sure everyone is spayed (unless you want dozens of bunnies running around!).
Eric Wright / FOAP - Getty Images
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