Parents are often willing to give their kids the shirts off their backs to keep them safe and happy. In the human world, this means giving our kids food, clothes, and a warm place to sleep. In the animal kingdom, however, parenting is a bit different.
This adorable wolf-mother offers her pup a cozy place to nap, literally giving up her personal space. She selflessly offers her body heat to her child so that it can be nice and toasty during the cold winter months. This demonstrates more than just great parenting, but a truly picture-perfect moment.
When You Hug the Wrong Mom
Standing just a few feet tall, it's not uncommon for toddlers to accidentally wrap their arms around the wrong calves when out in public with their parents. From their perspective, most legs look the same, and it's easy to get confused. It appears that these poor kittens have made a similar mistake.
As long as they're getting fed, the kittens don't seem to mind where the milk comes from. This new dog mom, however, appears to be quite confused by her pups' new look. Combined with the exhaustion of taking care of her own babies and the kitty intruders, it's possible this dog will think this is all just a bad dream.
If Your Child Never Took Naps
You know that exhausting feeling when your child refuses to sleep despite how hard you work to wear them out throughout the day? So, you end up on the bed beside them and hope that the combination of your presence and complete silence will eventually get them to doze off. Most likely, though, you end up falling asleep before they do.
This hedgehog duo seems to be going through the same thing. The baby appears to be wide awake, doing a big stretch, while mommy is desperate for some shut-eye. Taken right out of the parenting playbook, she might soon pretend to sleep so that the child will follow suit. Like most new parents, though, she's going to need practice.
I Love You But Go Away
Just like any parent, this weary-looking dog looks like she needs a break. Having children doesn't mean you want them around 24/7. Everyone deserves some time off every once in a while, even from a job as demanding as parenthood. There's no reason why she can't get some shuteye while her pups use her as a pillow, though!
As a parent, you're used to sharing your space with your kids. If they're not crawling into your bed, then they're following you to the bathroom or shouting for attention from across the room. No one said parenting was easy! Regardless, after some rest and perhaps a quick nap, she'll likely feel better about her pups napping on top of her.
Meow!
Once your child reaches the age where they start talking back, you just might second-guess any plans to have more kids. Parenting truly gets interesting when your toddler discovers their voice, as they quickly learn that they can say no to you. Who knew a kitten so tiny could be so loud?!
It's not just toddlers who learn to have a mind of their own, though. This kitten looks like he has just figured out that his mouth makes noise and is giving his mommy a piece of his mind. Like all new parents, this momma cat is far from thrilled about this new development and likely preferred it when her offspring were quiet and peaceful.