Dog ownership comes with responsibilities. We aren’t just responsible for the basics, like feeding our dogs, giving them plenty of water, and making sure they get enough exercise. We are also responsible for their happiness.

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Playtime is an essential part of keeping our pups happy. In many of our homes, we keep toys accessible so our pups can pick and choose what they want to play with.

After hearing about Jamie Stumpf and her dog Maximus, the toys WE choose to give them is just as much about safety as it is about fun.

Even the toys we assume are safe because we purchased them from a big name store, may not be.

Source: Jamie Stumpf/Facebook

As a responsible pet owner, Jamie purchased a toy ball that didn’t have any small parts Maximus could choke on. She purchased a toy that, from all accounts, looked perfectly fine.

Source: Jamie Stumpf/Facebook

However, when Maximus took the toy into his mouth and squeezed the air out from inside of it, the toy became lodged around his tongue. It caused his tongue to swell, blocking his airway. Maximus couldn’t breathe!

Source: Jamie Stumpf/Facebook

By the time Jamie was able to get Maximus proper medical attention, it was too late. His untimely death is a reminder that no matter how much we try to keep our animals safe, there are still risks out there.

Now Jamie has to go on without her best friend.

Any squeaky toy can pose a similar threat! Please, keep a close eye on your pets at all times when they are trying out a new toy.

Or even if they are playing with it for the 20th time! If it looks hinky, throw it away or bring it back for a refund.

Through no fault of her own, Jamie paid the ultimate price when her only goal was to make her dog happy. R.I.P. Dear Maximus!

Posted by Jamie Stumpf on Monday, August 10, 2015

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Lucky Elderly Man Is Greeted Every Day By A “Friend” Who Crawls Out Of The Ice:

We’ve all seen some unique and unlikely friendships over the years, but this one here may take the cake!

One day, a starving otter appeared at an elderly man’s door wanting some food. Ever since, Seppo Laamanen, 65, and Iivari the otter have been inseparable best friends.

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It all started when Seppo fed worms and fish to the small and malnourished otter who was clearly looking for food.

After that, the friendly animal repaid the kindness by visiting the man at his home in Punkaharju in easter Finland. This was the start of something special.

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There’s no way Seppo could’ve ever imagined it’d all lead to this. This adorably unique friendship is one for the ages, and it’s something you have to see to believe.

There’s nothing like the bond between two friends regardless of the species! 🙂

10 Of The “Most Loyal” Dog Breeds On The Planet

Giving love and support to humans is something that some dogs do better than others.

While many dogs love everyone they meet and are willing to take treats or belly rubs from anyone, the pups we found are just the opposite.

These 10 dogs are some of the most loyal breeds on the planet. They are rock steady in their loyalty to their owner no matter what.

1) Akita

When the American Kennel Club (AKC) lists loyalty to describe the temperament of the Akita, you know they mean business. The beautiful double-coated working dog of Japanese ancestry is considered hardwired in protecting those she loves. They should be socialized with other dogs and people from the time they are puppies. Their silly, fun, but dignified personalities round out the loyal Akita.

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2) Boxer

This working dog is smart, full of energy, and oh so loyal to their family. They get along great with kids and have an innate instinct to protect their pack. He’s a watchdog with a heart of gold who oozes dedication to his owner.

Source: Pierre Pocs Photography/Flickr

3) Skye Terrier

Known as the “small dog with the big ears,” this adorable breed hails from the Scottish Isle of Skye, hence the name. Whether you live in the city or the country, this small dog with a big personality is steadfast in snuggling, playtime, and remaining loyal to his owners.

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4) Beagle

This merry hound is friendly, curious and incredibly loyal. While he doesn’t mind the occasional couch potato time, this spunky pooch is energetic and merry. A fun fact about this hound: the breed standard is for 13 inches and under and another in the 13-15 inch category. No matter how you size him, these adorable dogs just want to cling to you.

Source: Simon Hameau/Flickr

5) Shar-Pei

This wrinkly non-sporting breed is standoffish to strangers but very loyal to his owner. His ancient Chinese roots are part of the charm of the Shar-Pei. Regal, strong, and smart, if you want a BFF for life, this loose-skinned pooch may be the right choice for you.

Source: Alessandro Persano/Flickr