Good Living Guide

Animals

Seven Black Bears Crash Pool Party at Gatlinburg Resort

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More than 1 million people visit Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains every year, and most of them expect to see wildlife in the woods and parks. One group, however, didn’t have to go anywhere. A group of local black bears came right to their hotel.

Pools and Mountain Views

The Jefferson County High School Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) wanted to celebrate the end of the school year. The group rented a cabin at Chalet Village in Gatlinburg.

Chalet Village provides rental cabins in the Smoky Mountains. These cabins are known for their amazing mountain views. The Jefferson County group rented a cabin that overlooked a huge pool area with three pools.

Some Local Black Bears Came To Visit

Black bears are common in the Smoky Mountains. As the visitors watched, a whole family of black bears strolled into the pool area.

The group included adults and cubs. They swam, splashed around and enjoyed the sunshine.

Making the News

Michelle Johnson was one of the adults on the JROTC trip. In a Facebook post, she said there were seven bears.

Chalet Village employees had never seen so many bears appear at one time.

Johnson’s video of the event made local and national news.

Living Their Best Bear Life

This is not the first time black bears have enjoyed the resort life in Tennessee.

Last year, a vacationer in the Smoky Mountains filmed a black bear getting into the vacationer’s Jacuzzi and enjoying a steaming soak. In 2019, a Tennessee family watched a black bear climb into the family’s hot tub.

Wildlife officials remind you to enjoy the bears from a distance. Don’t feed them, and don’t try to chase them away. When they’re finished swimming or soaking, they’ll be on their way.

Seven Black Bears Crash Pool Party at Gatlinburg Resort

Rare Amur Tiger Cubs Born At Highland Wildlife Park

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Wildlife conservationists and animal lovers cheered this weekend when Dominika, an Amur tiger, gave birth to three tiger cubs at the Highland Wildlife Park in Scotland.

Rare and Endangered Beauties

Amur tigers are among the most rare, endangered species in the world. Dominika’s beautiful babies are a sign of hope that Amur tigers can continue breeding in captivity.

The Highland Park and Edinburgh Zoo are committed to preserving and protecting many endangered species, including Scottish Wildcats, also known as Highland Tigers.

These projects aim to breed wild cats in captivity and then release them into the wild. The Amur Tiger breeding project is one of these initiatives.

One of the World’s Largest

The Amur tiger, which was once known as the Siberian tiger, is one of the largest cats in the world. Its coat is a lighter orange than other tiger species, and its coat is longer and thicker.

That’s because Amur tigers live in the icy mountains of Russia, China and Korea. The Amur tiger is the national animal of South Korea.

Making a Small Comeback

Amur tigers were hunted almost to extinction in the 1940s. In 1947, Russia outlawed tiger hunting and passed laws protecting the cats.

Since then, they’ve made a small comeback. Today, around 500 live in the wild.

Protecting the Amur Tiger Cubs

Vickie Larkin, who is the carnivore team leader at Highland Wildlife Park, told the Daily Record that the first few weeks of a cub’s life are critical.

For this reason, the cubs and their mother will have some privacy for a few more weeks. In the meantime, visitors can see a video of the little cubs. They can also see Botzman, the cubs’ father.

Hope for the Future

With many species on the verge of extinction, the successful birth of these cubs is a marker of hope for the future.

Larkin said, “There are just 500 Amur tigers remaining in the wild, so our adorable cubs represent an important contribution to the future of this endangered species.”

If you want to support the care and feeding of the Amur cubs or other endangered animals, you can donate to the Highland Wildlife Park.

Rare Amur Tiger Cubs Born At Highland Wildlife Park

‘Extinct’ Giant Galápagos Tortoise Reemerges After 100 Years

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A rare giant Galápagos tortoise has emerged from the shadows after being declared extinct more than 100 years ago. Scientists in Ecuador have confirmed that a turtle found in 2019 is a giant Fernandina tortoise.

'Extinct' Giant Galápagos Tortoise Reemerges After 100 Years

Photo by Galapagos National Park

What Is a Fernandina Tortoise?

The Fernandina tortoise (Chelonoidis phantasticus) is a land tortoise native to the Galápagos Islands. They’re a chain of islands that are part of Ecuador.

These islands have many fascinating native species. Charles Darwin developed his theories of evolution while studying turtles and birds on the Galápagos Islands.

Finding Fern

In 1906, conservationists classed Fernandina tortoises as extinct.

In 2019, however, Galápagos National Park rangers were surprised to find a large tortoise whose species they couldn’t identify. They suspected she might be a Fernandina tortoise and named her Fern.

Fern is about 100 years old. Giant tortoises live up to 200 years on average.

Fern’s Confirmed

This month, scientists compared the tortoise’s DNA to the DNA of a Fernandina giant tortoise that was preserved at Yale University.

The results proved the workers were right. At least one Fernandina tortoise had survived after being ruled out a century ago.

Another Galápagos Tortoise Success

Scientists are now hoping to find more members of Fern’s family so they can breed them. Tortoise breeding programs have been highly successful.

In 2020, a giant Galápagos tortoise named Diego fathered hundreds of babies while in captivity. Diego and his little ones have all returned to the wild. Conservationists say Diego “saved his species.”

They are hoping Fern can do the same for hers.

Not Just Tortoises

The tortoise is not the first animal to reemerge after conservationists declared it extinct. In recent years, conservationists have confirmed sightings of Crete wild cats and Sumatran tigers.

The pygmy tarsier, New Guinea singing dog and Kashmir musk deer have all been seen after being declared extinct.

Fern’s Future Looks Bright

The future looks bright for any animal that survives despite habitat loss, climate change and other threats. With luck, Fern can help her species thrive and enjoy a bright future.

'Extinct' Giant Galápagos Tortoise Reemerges After 100 Years

Woman Fired From Law Firm After Feeding Zoo Monkeys Hot Cheetos

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A Texas woman has landed herself in hot water after she jumped into a zoo enclosure to feed the monkeys some Hot Cheetos.

CHARMED BY THE ZOO MONKEYS

In May, Lucy Rae was visiting the El Paso Zoo. Apparently, she was so charmed by the spider monkeys that she decided to join them in their enclosure.

She had to climb over a low fence, clamber down a hill and wade through an artificial lagoon to reach them.

Her stunt was caught on security cameras and quickly went viral.

NATURE’S ACROBATS

Spider monkeys live in the forests of South and Central America. Extremely acrobatic, they are known for their ability to swing easily from branch to branch.

Like all monkeys, spider monkeys are endangered.

HOT MESS

Animals in captivity eat a carefully controlled diet. It closely mimics what they would eat in the wild. We’re pretty sure Hot Cheetos are not on the menu.

Besides the danger to their diet, there are other dangers.

STUPID AND LUCKY

Wildlife experts say interfering with wild animals is traumatic for the animals and risky for humans. Monkeys will attack if they feel threatened, and spider monkeys are strong.

Rae, they said, was “stupid and lucky.”

PAYING THE PRICE

Rae ended up paying the price for her stupid stunt. The next day, the law firm that employed her announced it had fired her.

In a statement, the Lovett Law Firm said Rae’s actions were “irresponsible and reckless.”

It could get even worse for Rae. Zoo director Joe Montisano told the El Paso Times he intends to press criminal charges against her.

MANY CALLERS IDENTIFIED HER

He also said many people called the zoo to identify Rae after seeing the video. “Your friends will rat you out,” Montisano warned.

Let’s hope that deters anyone else who’s thinking about getting up to some monkey business.

Woman Fired From Law Firm After Feeding Zoo Monkeys Hot Cheetos

Creative Woman Designs A Chair for Needy Pets

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Simone Giertz loves to build things, and she loves her dog. She put those things together to create a one-of-a-kind chair for needy pets.

Creative Woman Designs A Chair For Needy Pets

YouTube | Simone Giertz

A Special Chair for a Special Dog

Several years ago, Giertz adopted a three-legged dog named Scraps. As she explained in a YouTube video, Scraps is extremely needy and wants to spend every waking moment clinging to her.

Giertz’s response was to create a combination chair and dog bed. It allows Scraps to cling to Giertz while allowing Giertz to sit at her desk.

Making her Chair for Needy Pets

Giertz walked viewers through the entire process. The final product is a chair with a winding staircase that leads to the top level. At the top, half the bed curves in one direction to fit the snuggling pet. The other half serves as a desk chair for Giertz.

The steps allow Scraps to climb up easily, and railings on the pet side make him feel secure.

Creative Woman Designs A Chair For Needy Pets

YouTube | Simone Giertz

But Wait, There’s More

Giertz, who is known for going over the top when she builds something, didn’t hold back on this project. She added a covered area where Scraps could hide, a framed picture of Scraps on the stairway, and built-in drawers to hold dog treats.

She reminded viewers that Scraps needs extra help climbing up because he’s a “tripod.”

Creative Woman Designs A Chair For Needy Pets

YouTube | Simone Giertz

Scraps Is an Inspiration

Giertz is a well-known Swedish inventor who lives in Los Angeles. She has become famous for her outlandish robots. Giertz has appeared on numerous TV shows and has a YouTube channel with more than 2 million subscribers.

This isn’t the first time Giertz has taken inspiration from Scraps. She previously made a selfie photo booth for him out of Legos.

Designing for Dogs

Are you inspired to be equally creative for your pet? You may not be able to buy Giertz’s chair for needy pets, but you may feel the urge build something similar for your dog. Pets truly inspire us to be our best.

Pets For The Elderly Charity Expands Effort To Help Isolated Seniors

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A charity that brings pets and people together is expanding its outreach during the coronavirus pandemic. Pets for the Elderly specializes in helping people over 60 find a loving, four-footed companion.

Pets For The Elderly

HELPING SHELTER PETS AND PEOPLE FIND EACH OTHER

Loneliness is hard on seniors, and animals make wonderful companions. Those two facts are the driving force behind Pets for the Elderly, whose mission is to end loneliness among the elderly. The organization calls its program Companion Connection. The program helps pay the adoption, spaying and other fees for people over 60 who adopt shelter pets. It’s a win-win. Seniors find a fluffy friend, and pets find a forever home.

Around 50 shelters in 30 states take part in the program. It has helped more than 100,000 shelter pets find homes.

FORGING A LIFELONG CONNECTION

This week, the organization announced it was ramping up efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pets for the Elderly is reaching out to help older people pay for food, grooming and in-home visits from shelter workers.

Loneliness is a serious problem for older people. According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine, more than a third of adults aged 45 and older feel lonely, and nearly one-fourth of people over 65 are “socially isolated.” Many are even more isolated without the ability to socialize or receive visitors because of the pandemic.

IT’S THE RIGHT TIME

Executive Director Susan Kurowski said this is the right time to increase the organization’s efforts.

“With COVID, bridging this isolation gap with companionship is going to show, when we look back, as being key to many people’s mental wellness. You don’t have to live alone to feel isolated.”

Has a pet helped you cope with the pandemic? Let us know.

This Couch Pet Bed Provides Comfort and Security for Pets Who Love To Nest

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We never get tired of spoiling our pets. Now, you can give your favorite furred friend his or her very own couch pet bed. They’ll love this soft, cozy bed that pampers them in style.

Couch Pet Bed

Luxury for Your Pet

This adorable couch pet bed is a little bit of luxury for your pet. It’s a stylish sofa your pet will love snuggling into every day. Your dog or cat can get cozy with you while you watch TV, read or relax.

The best part is you can choose your favorite fabric because you make this couch pet bed yourself. Create a one-of-a-kind bed for your special buddy.

Make Them Feel Safe and Secure

This is the bed your pets want.

Most cats only feel secure when they can sleep in a snug, enclosed space. That’s why they like to hide in drawers and boxes. It isn’t just cats, however. Many dogs also prefer a bed that makes them feel tucked in.

Older pets will appreciate a soft, warm place to snooze their days away, and young pets will enjoy a place to flop after a day of playing.

Couch Pet Bed

It’s a Perfect Holiday Gift

Take care of your holiday gift giving with this couch pet bed. You can make a gorgeous bed for every pet lover on your list. You can even make it in a holiday pattern.

Where Can You Get the Couch Pet Bed Pattern?

You can only buy this couch pet bed pattern from Etsy seller Pillow Pops, a seller who specializes in exclusive, charming home accessories.

When you order the pattern, you’ll receive detailed instructions, a tissue pattern and photos to show what the item should look like at different stages. Have fun making this beautiful bed for your favorite pet.

Couch Pet Bed

Goat Sneaks Into Deputy’s Patrol Car, Eats Her Paperwork!

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A deputy sheriff in Georgia had an encounter that really got her goat when she was making a routine paperwork run.

IT TURNED INTO A GRUFF ENCOUNTER

The Douglas County deputy was delivering civil papers to a farm. When she arrived, she left her cruiser’s passenger door open since it was a quick stop.

In a Facebook post about the incident, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office explained that, “Due to the number of houses she visits daily, she routinely leaves her vehicle’s door open because she has had to retreat on a number of occasions from vicious dogs. Never once did she expect or even consider what was about to happen this day!”

THIS GOAT WASN’T KIDDING

The deputy opened the door to find a goat in her car and her paperwork in shreds. He found all that paper irresistible and decided to help himself to a snack.

A body cam video shows the officer trying to shoo the goat away, but he takes his sweet time leaving those tasty, shredded treats.

A TALE WITH A HAPPY ENDING

The deputy tried pushing the goat, pulling his tail and swatting him away. At one point, the goat accidentally knocked her over as she was trying to remove him.

Fortunately, nobody was hurt in the good cop, bad goat encounter. The sheriff’s office said, “We all got a little laugh out of it, and we hope you do, too.”

We’ve heard of dogs eating homework, but this is the first time we’ve seen a goat eat official paperwork. This deputy has a great excuse for not turning in her work.

Goat Sneaks Into Deputy’s Patrol Car

Clawgs Help Protect Your Pup’s Paws from Hot Asphalt and other Abrasive Surfaces

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If you love your dog and love the idea of helping a small independent, it’s time to look at Clawgs. This ingenious paw-wear protects your dog’s pads from uncomfortable, dangerous surfaces like hot asphalt, gravel, sharp ice, salted roads, slippery floors and rocky trails.

There are other dog booties out there, but they don’t have the incredible details that these protectors do. It’s obvious the inventor is someone who knows and loves dogs.

Clawgs Help Protect Your Pup's Paws

Why Dogs Need Clawgs

Your dog’s paw pads were designed to run on grass and dirt. Today, your dog encounters different surfaces that can damage her paw pads.

Rescue dogs often need padded shoes to protect their feet from broken glass and concrete when they’re digging through rubble.

Clawgs let your dogs walk or run safely on any surface.

What Makes Them Special

Here’s what makes Clawgs stand out.

  • They’re thin and flexible. Your dog can still feel the surface of the ground without damaging his paw pads.
  • They have grip to help your dog walk on slick surfaces.
  • They’re breathable. Many dog booties suffocate your dog’s feet by not letting them sweat. They allow your dog’s feet to sweat and breathe naturally.
  • They allow dogs to use their claws. Dogs can still walk naturally wearing them.
  • They’re soft, lightweight and comfortable.

Clawgs Help Protect Your Pup's Paws

Where Can You Get Clawgs?

These special dog booties are only available from a Kickstarter project. Depending on the level of support you pledge, you can get them at an early bird discount of more than 30%. Pledging now will get you a set of Clawgs by Christmas.

As the project creator says, “Please consider preordering Clawgs. If you do not have a dog but love them and want to help, please donate. Our mission is for you and your best friend to travel further together.”

You can learn more at the Kickstarter page.

Clawgs Help Protect Your Pup's Paws from Hot Asphalt and other Abrasive Surfaces

Hummingbird Feeder Hat Provides A Fantastic Birdwatching Experience

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Everyone loves to see hummingbirds, but it can be difficult to spot these fast-moving, elusive creatures. Now, a bird-loving inventor has fixed that problem by creating a hummingbird feeder hat that brings the birds to you.

Hummingbird Feeder Hat

A Fantastic Feeding Invention

This fantastic contraption consists of a hummingbird feeder attached to a ballcap. The video shows the inventor walking around outside wearing his feeder hat. Dozens of hummingbirds visit the feeders, bringing their bright colors, whirring song and stunning beauty.

Seeing these lovely creatures up close is an amazing experience.

Hummingbirds Are Big Eaters

The simple feeders use a sugar solution to attract the birds. All you have to do is fill them with a feeding solution, and the birds will flock to you.

Hummingbirds eat a surprising amount of food for their small size. That’s because they’re constantly in motion. They burn many calories flying from flower to flower.

Hummingbird food is easy and inexpensive to make. All you need is sugar, water and the desire to nourish these beautiful creatures.

Hummingbird Feeder Hats Go High Fashion

The hummingbird hat feeder has inspired people to come up with their own versions. One woman posted videos of herself wearing an elegant, wide-brimmed hat with feeders on it.

One Etsy seller offered a version that used a bike helmet.

We bet you can come up with your own twist on this hummingbird headgear.

Tips for Attracting Hummingbirds

  • Use feeders that are bright red, yellow or orange. Hummingbirds are attracted to these colors.
  • Hummingbirds prefer to feed at dawn and dusk.
  • Plant flowers that attract them. These include bee balm, cardinal flowers, columbine, impatiens, petunia and trumpet vine.

Do You Want a Hummingbird Feeder Hat?

If you’d like to spend your days surrounded by colorful hummingbirds, you can make your own hummingbird feeder hat using handheld feeders.

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Hummingbird Feeder Hat