From a cat’s unexpected reaction to a breakup to a dachshund that waited “in line” to greet his dad, we’ve seen lots of heartwarming pet content online this week.
But we’ve also been putting together our weekly Newsweek Pet of the Week line-up, showcasing readers’ pets and adorable stories.
If you want your pet to be part of next week’s line-up, follow the instructions at the end of this story to get involved.
Winner
This week’s Pet of the Week winner is spirited 7-pound tabby cat Jerri who has an unexpected passion—riding the family’s vacuum.
In a hilarious video, Jerri was caught on camera riding the family’s automatic floor vacuum like her own personal chariot.
“Jerri is addicted to riding on our Eufy floor vacuum,” the cat’s owner told Newsweek.
This quirky habit has turned the mundane chore of vacuuming into a daily spectacle of feline fun. Jerri and her hefty 23-pound twin, Tom, are part of a rescued feline family that includes siblings Lucky, Dorian Gray, Ratt Ratt, and their devoted Mama, who was found pregnant as a stray.
Refusing to break up the tight-knit bunch, their humans welcomed the entire family into their happy home.
“They’ve overcome so many obstacles to make it!” Jerri’s owner said. Whether she’s cruising around the living room like royalty or simply soaking up the attention, Jerri proves that home isn’t where you’re loved—it’s also where you can ride a robot vacuum without judgment.
Finalists
Our first finalist this week is Hank, a joyful 9-month-old rescue dog who made the journey from Texas to Connecticut to find his forever home.
Since his adoption, Hank has brought boundless energy and happiness to his new family. Described as “happy and very active,” by his owner, he’s always ready for an adventure.
Whether he’s chasing his favorite ball across the yard or trotting down the sidewalk on a walk, Hank is in his element when he’s on the move.
Next up this week is Tofu, a charming pup who quickly became an important part of his owner’s life.
Natalie told Newsweek that Tofu has been an essential companion as she deals with “empty nest syndrome” after her children have left home.
Now Natalie and Tofu are on a new adventure together, sharing their daily antics on TikTok under the handle @tofu.toypoodle_power where he has shown off his skills doing tricks and even playing a tune on the drums.
Last but not least is Milo the cat who is now living his best life with owner Sue Happel who adopted him in 2020.
When she arrived at the shelter, Happel was instantly drawn to Milo. “He was tabby colored around 6 years old, very thin. They said when he was bought in, he was malnourished. And his eye is damaged; one eye crossed. I knew that was the one,” she told Newsweek.
At first, Milo was scared and unsure. He had been malnourished, possibly abused, and trust didn’t come easily. But Sue respected his boundaries, letting him set the pace. Slowly, the fear faded. Within two months, Milo was stretching out confidently across the bed—a moment that, Happel said: “made my heart burst.”
Now he is a loving and playful shadow who follows his owner everywhere, cries for attention and still gets zoomies like a kitten.
Happel hopes that sharing her success story with Milo will encourage others to consider adoption: “Please adopt,” she said. “There are so many wonderful animals out there that need, want, and deserve a loving home.”
If you think your pet could be next week’s Newsweek “Pet of the Week,” send us your funny and heartwarming videos and pictures of your pet, along with a bit about them to [email protected] and they could appear in our “Pet of the Week” lineup.
The post Cat Who Loves To Ride on Robot Vacuum Wins Pet of the Week appeared first on Newsweek.
