As if there weren't enough proven benefits to having a pet, a new study from Missouri University shows that parents of children with autism overwhelmingly agree that having a dog, or even just being around dogs, has benefited their autistic child. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often have difficulties with social interactions. According to Gretchen Carlisle, who conducted the study, "Dogs can help... by acting as a social lubricant," and when children with ASD have trouble interacting with their peers (and in some cases with their own family), "dogs can serve as bridges that help children with autism communicate." Since autism is a spectrum, each individual with ASD has specific interests and sensory sensitivities, which means that, although this study focused on dogs, some families may benefit from other pets depending on their child's needs. Carlisle states that, when parents involve their children with deciding on a pet, "it may be more likely the children will have positive experiences with the animals when they are brought home." Carlisle notes that dogs "can provide unconditional, nonjudgmental love and companionship," which might make them especially beneficial for children with autism. But of course that's what makes dogs so loveable in the first place.

Move over David Beckham, there's a new soccer star in town! This cute little guy even has his own warm up routine - just watch his tiny feet as he bounces up and down waiting for the ball! Like a true athlete, he is always in a ready position. He barely even lets the ball leave his human's hands before he pounces on it!

Alfie was an unexpected addition to Lorraine's big household, but he quickly became a beloved member of the family. And he's Thursday's Cat of the Day! Read his heartwarming rescue story.

Humans need vaccinations to help prevent themselves from catching any harmful diseases, and so do animals.

Too much snow? What's that mean? Apparently it means nothing to Scooter, who is out to enjoy himself no matter how deep the snow is!