They took in two barn kittens in desperate need of help. Though not from the same litter, the cats were destined to be together. Jelly and BeanSaltyAnimalRescueAbout two months ago, Karly from Salty Animal Rescue welcomed two kittens who urgently needed a safe place to land.They were rescued along with 10 other kittens from a farm in a joint effort between Salty Animal Rescue and Bark at the Moon. "I believe these two girls are from different litters," Karly shared. "The smokey one was especially tiny, weighing just 215 grams at around three weeks old."Within two days in foster care, the smaller kitten perked up and began to gain weight. They were rescued from a barnSaltyAnimalRescueThe two were affectionately named Jelly (a tiny house panther) and Bean (a smokey fluffball). They took to bottle-feeding like pros, and after just a week of round-the-clock care, they plumped up, especially Jelly."I wasn't sure Bean would make it when we first got her. She was so tiny and underweight for her age." SaltyAnimalRescueBean was treated for a case of the sniffles and poured every bit of strength into eating. As she grew stronger, fluffier, and more alert, she started to resemble a tiny Ewok with her round face and wispy fur.Before long, both kittens were sporting healthy, round bellies, and they flaunted them after every meal. "They are finally eating on their own and starting to bounce around, play, and enjoy all the fun kitten things." As Bean grew bigger, her smokey coat became fluffierSaltyAnimalRescueWith their newfound strength came their voices and purrs, filling the room with constant squeaks and rumbling. "They are slowly starting to learn that they don't need to swim in their food, and they've mastered the litter box."Bean surprised everyone by pulling through that first critical week. Now, she storms around the room like a tiny tornado. SaltyAnimalRescueWith plenty of space to zoom around, toys to chase, and cat trees to climb, the kittens are thriving. "They may not be from the same litter, but they've been inseparable since their rescue."Each day, their bond grows stronger, showing how much they're meant to stay together. SaltyAnimalRescue"Jelly is easygoing, always bouncing around and playing. She may be shy at first, but she adores snuggles. She also has these tiny white hairs over one eye that make her extra cute."Jelly finds comfort in Bean, her "sister from another mister," as they explore the world together. SaltyAnimalRescueBean's funny faces and expressive personality always put a smile on people's faces. She's a little diva—big on drama but even bigger on love.With her plush silver coat and signature ear tufts, Bean has grown into a striking little cat. She's also a total lap kitten, happiest when curled up beside Jelly or in a warm set of arms. She looks magical next to her sleek, panther-like sister. SaltyAnimalRescueThough not from the same litter, their bond is undeniable. If one hops up onto a cat tree, the other is right behind her. If they lose sight of one another, they'll immediately seek each other out.To date, many rescuers have come together to help more than 30 cats and kittens from that farm, including the inseparable Jelly and Bean. Though not from the same litter, they are completely inseparableSaltyAnimalRescueThanks to the compassion and tireless work of the rescuers, Jelly and Bean—and many others—got a second chance they deserved.They've grown stronger, braver, and more affectionate with each passing day. Now, they're ready for the next chapter: a forever home where they'll never have to be apart. SaltyAnimalRescueShare this story with your friends. More on Jelly and Bean and Salty Animal Rescue (in Ontario) on Instagram@saltyanimalrescue.Related story: Two Kittens Seek Help Together, One of Them Appears Blind But Days Later They Discover He Can See

Bringing a new dog into your life is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. At DogingtonPost, we understand the challenges new pet parents face. That’s why we’ve compiled essential tips for new dog owners to help you navigate this rewarding journey. From preparing your home to establishing routines and ensuring your pup’s health, we’ve got you covered. How to Prepare Your Home for a New Dog Puppy-Proofing Your Living Space Get down on all fours and see your home from your dog’s perspective. Remove or secure anything that could harm if chewed or swallowed. This includes electrical cords, toxic plants, and small objects. Get help from Poison Control ONLINE or by PHONE, 24/7 if you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic. Install baby gates to restrict access to certain areas of your home. This is particularly important if you have stairs or rooms with delicate items. Ensure trash cans have secure lids to prevent curious noses from exploring potentially dangerous contents. Stocking Up on Essential Supplies Gather all necessary supplies before you bring your new dog home. This includes: A collar with ID tags A leash Food and water bowls Appropriate food for your dog’s age and size Waste bags for walks Cleaning supplies for inevitable accidents Invest in a variety of toys to keep your dog mentally stimulated and physically active. Puzzle toys can help prevent boredom and destructive behavior. The American Kennel Club recommends having at least one toy for each of these categories: comfort, active play, and mental stimulation. Creating a Cozy Sleeping Area Every dog needs a designated space to call their own. Choose a quiet area of your home for your dog’s bed or crate. If using a crate, make sure it’s large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The Humane Society suggests that the crate should be about 6 inches longer than your dog’s body length and 6 inches taller than their shoulder height. Make the space inviting with a comfortable bed and some soft blankets. Place the bed away from drafts and direct sunlight. This area should be a safe haven for your dog (not a place of punishment). Securing Your Outdoor Space If you have a yard, check the fence for any gaps or weak spots. Some dogs are excellent diggers or jumpers, so make sure your fence is secure and high enough. Remove any toxic plants from your garden (many common flowers and shrubs can be harmful to dogs). Create a designated potty area in your yard. This will make house training easier and keep your lawn cleaner. Consider setting up a shaded area where your dog can relax outdoors on warm days. Now that you’ve prepared your home for your new furry friend, it’s time to focus on establishing a routine and starting basic training. These steps will help your dog adjust to their new environment and set the foundation for a happy, well-behaved companion. How to Establish a Routine for Your New Dog Consistency forms the backbone of welcoming a new dog into your home. A well-structured routine helps your furry friend feel secure and sets the foundation for good behavior. Let’s explore how to create a daily schedule that works for both you and your new companion. Set Up Meal Times Establish regular feeding times for your dog. Most adult dogs thrive on two meals a day, while puppies may require three or four smaller meals. Choose times that fit your schedule and maintain them. The American Kennel Club suggests feeding at the same times each day to help regulate your dog’s digestive system and prevent accidents. Place your dog’s food and water bowls in a quiet area away from high-traffic zones (this allows them to eat without disturbance). Always provide fresh water and clean the bowls daily to maintain hygiene. Master House Training House training demands patience and consistency. Take your dog out first thing in the morning, after meals, naps, and playtime, and before bed. Select a specific spot in your yard and use a command like “go potty” to help your dog associate the action with the location. Positive reinforcement plays a key role. Praise and reward your dog immediately after they eliminate outside. If accidents happen indoors, clean thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove odors that might attract your dog back to the same spot. Teach Essential Commands Begin with basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “leave it.” These form the foundation of good behavior and can help keep your dog safe. Use short, frequent training sessions of about 5-10 minutes each to maintain your dog’s attention. Always use positive reinforcement techniques. The Association of Professional Dog Trainers emphasizes rewarding desired behaviors with treats, praise, or play, rather than punishing unwanted behaviors. This approach builds trust and strengthens your bond with your dog. Prioritize Socialization Proper socialization is essential, especially for puppies. Expose your dog to various people, animals, and environments in a positive way. This helps prevent fear and aggression later in life. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior recommends socialization for puppies beginning at 7–8 weeks old. Arrange playdates with friendly, vaccinated dogs, take walks in different neighborhoods, and introduce your dog to various sounds and textures. Always monitor these interactions to ensure they remain positive experiences for your dog. Every dog is unique and may adapt to routines at different paces. Be patient and adjust your approach as needed. With time and consistency, you’ll establish a routine that keeps your new furry friend happy, healthy, and well-behaved. Now that you’ve laid the groundwork for a solid routine, let’s move on to another critical aspect of dog ownership: ensuring your new companion’s health and wellness. How to Keep Your New Dog Healthy and Happy Select the Right Veterinarian Finding a trusted veterinarian is essential for your dog’s long-term health. Ask local dog owners for recommendations or read online reviews. Schedule a meet-and-greet appointment to evaluate the vet’s approach and the clinic’s environment. A good vet will answer your questions and explain things clearly. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) accredits veterinary practices that meet high standards of care. Look for an AAHA-accredited clinic in your area for quality assurance. Maintain Vaccinations and Preventive Care Work with your vet to create a vaccination schedule for your dog. Core vaccines (such as those for rabies, distemper, and parvovirus) are necessary for all dogs. Your vet might recommend additional vaccines based on your dog’s lifestyle and risk factors. Don’t neglect parasite prevention. Regular deworming and monthly preventatives for fleas, ticks, and heartworms are vital for your dog’s health. However, studies show that deworming frequencies are often considerably less than recommended by experts. Promote Physical Activity and Mental Engagement Regular exercise benefits your dog’s physical and mental well-being. Exercise needs vary by breed and age, but most dogs need at least 30 minutes to 2 hours of activity daily. This can include walks, playtime, or structured activities like agility training. Mental stimulation is equally important. Use puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive games to keep your dog’s mind sharp. The Kong Company suggests that mental stimulation can reduce problem behaviors (like excessive barking or chewing). Provide a Nutritious Diet Proper nutrition forms the foundation of good health. Choose a high-quality dog food appropriate for your dog’s age, size, and activity level. A complete and balanced dog food is essential for your pet’s health. Consider consulting a veterinary nutritionist to create a tailored diet plan, especially if your dog has specific health concerns. Treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Monitor Your Dog’s Health Regular health check-ups allow early detection and prevention of potential issues. Watch for changes in your dog’s behavior, appetite, or energy levels, as these can indicate health problems. Keep a record of your dog’s weight, vaccinations, and any medical concerns to discuss with your vet during visits. Final Thoughts Bringing a new dog into your life fills your days with joy and challenges. We at DogingtonPost understand the importance of preparation, routine, and health care for successful dog ownership. Our comprehensive guide for new dog owners provides valuable tips to navigate this exciting journey. Patience and consistency form the foundation of a strong bond with your furry friend. Establish regular meal times, implement house training, and teach basic commands using positive reinforcement techniques. These steps will help your dog adjust and thrive in their new home. Prioritize your dog’s health through regular vet check-ups, proper nutrition, and ample exercise (both physical and mental). We at DogingtonPost are here to support you every step of the way, offering resources to help you create a fulfilling life with your new canine companion.