Newsweek Pet of the Week: Ruthie the Mischievous Dog Steals Hearts

This week, a home security camera captured a heartwarming and hilarious moment that has taken the internet by storm. Ruthie, a playful and mischievous dog, decided to interrupt her owner’s spring cleaning chores in the yard with a clever trick. While her owner’s back was turned, Ruthie snuck outside with her prized "Miss Lamb Chops" toy—a plush that was strictly meant for indoor use. The sight of Ruthie bounding into the yard with her beloved toy was too amusing to ignore, and it quickly turned into an impromptu game of fetch, leaving the chores forgotten. Ruthie’s owner proudly admitted to Newsweek that his furry companion is "spoiled completely rotten," and it’s easy to see why. Ruthie’s antics have not only earned her the title of Newsweek’s Pet of the Week but also the hearts of everyone who’s seen the video.

Meet the Finalists: Heartwarming Stories of Pets Who Stole Our Hearts

While Ruthie took the top spot this week, she’s not the only pet who captured our attention. From foster failures to cats with rags-to-riches stories, these finalists remind us why pets are truly the best companions we could ask for.

Fluffy and Tux: From Shelter Struggles to Living Their Best Lives

Fluffy and Tux, two stunning black cats, have come a long way since their shelter days. Their owner, Mari Cormier, volunteers at the Regional Animal Services of King County and made it her mission to find the least adoptable cat at the shelter. That’s when she met Fluffy, who was recovering from a severe flea infestation and had lost most of her fur. Despite her rough start, Fluffy blossomed into a stunning, fluffy ball of fur, earning her name. Mari also brought home Tux, another beloved feline friend, and the two are now inseparable. Mari shared that adopting older or less adoptable animals can bring immense joy, saying, "We love it when people come in to adopt the older cats; they are our heroes." Fluffy’s journey from a shelter cat to a pampered pet is a beautiful reminder of the transformative power of love and care.

Perry: The Foster Fail Who Found His Forever Home

Perry, a sweet but timid pup, had a rough start in life. Found as a stray, he struggled to trust people until he met Janette Lilley, who was fostering him through Marley’s Mutts. When Janette took Perry to an adoption event, she left him with the rescue staff for a while. Upon returning, she saw Perry looking sad and lost, but everything changed the moment he spotted her. Perry’s tail wagged excitedly, and he jumped up to greet her—it was clear he had found his forever family. Janette and her family decided to adopt Perry, and he’s now living his best life. Though he still gets nervous at times, Perry has found a home filled with love, comfort, and endless adoration. His story is a testament to the beauty of fostering and the unbreakable bond between pets and their owners.

Tammy’s Mini Schnauzers: The Stars of a Hilarious Photoshoot

Tammy Stringe, the proud mom of three mini schnauzers, decided to capture her fur babies’ cuteness with a Valentine’s Day photoshoot. However, things didn’t quite go as planned. Instead of adorable smiles, Tammy’s pups gave her serious "mean mugging" expressions, leaving her in stitches. The photos, filled with sassy poses and playful energy, are a delightful reminder of how pets can turn even the most mundane moments into something unforgettable. Tammy’s mini schnauzers may not have cooperated during the photoshoot, but they certainly won over the hearts of everyone who’s seen the pictures.

The Importance of Thinking Outside the Litter Box: Adopting Senior Pets

As we celebrate the joy that pets bring into our lives, it’s important to remember the animals who often get overlooked: senior pets. Mari Cormier, Fluffy’s owner and a volunteer at the Regional Animal Services of King County, emphasized the importance of giving older animals a second chance. "We love it when people come in to adopt the older cats; they are our heroes," she said. Senior pets may not have the same energy as younger animals, but they often bring a sense of calm, love, and gratitude into our homes. If you’re considering adding a new furry friend to your family, don’t hesitate to give an older pet a chance—they might just become your new best friend.

Your Pet Could Be Next Week’s Star!

If Ruthie, Fluffy, Tux, Perry, and Tammy’s mini schnauzers have inspired you to share your own pet’s story, now’s your chance! Newsweek is always on the lookout for funny, heartwarming, and unforgettable pet moments. Whether your pet is a mischievous pup, a sassy cat, or a playful mini schnauzer, we want to hear from you. Send your videos, photos, and pet stories to life@newsweek.com, and your furry friend could be featured as next week’s Pet of the Week. After all, there’s no better way to brighten someone’s day than by sharing the joy that pets bring into our lives.

In conclusion, this week’s Pet of the Week and its finalists remind us why pets are truly the best companions. Their mischievous antics, heartfelt stories, and unconditional love have captured our hearts, and we can’t wait to see what next week’s submissions will bring. So, grab those tissues, get ready to smile, and don’t forget to share your pet’s story—your fur baby might just be the next star!