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Many of us have a tendency to doomscroll. After all, it’s necessary to keep ourselves updated, be well informed about the current events, and stand up to injustices in any way possible. But sometimes, it can start to feel a bit overwhelming. So if you’re looking for a quick break or a reason to unwind, we've got you covered.

Reddit users continue to share their newly adopted companions and keep surprising us with their big hearts and open arms. As you've probably have guessed, it’s time for Bored Panda’s selection of the most wholesome and heartwarming rescue animal pictures this month.

Let’s remind ourselves that there are still plenty of wonderful people in this world ready to lend a helping hand to those facing adversities. Continue scrolling, upvote your favorite four-legged friends, and share your thoughts about them in the comments!

Pssst! If you’re in the mood for some more cuteness, check out our earlier posts celebrating rescued pets and their rescuers here: January, December, November.

#1

This Is Zachary. The Cat That Was Stuck In The Shelter, That Nobody Wanted Because “He Is Fat, Too Old, And Has A Weird Meow.” He’s Perfect

This Is Zachary. The Cat That Was Stuck In The Shelter, That Nobody Wanted Because “He Is Fat, Too Old, And Has A Weird Meow.” He’s Perfect

Kisszegirl Report

#2

Tiva Is A Recently Retired Racing Greyhound Who Ran 151 Races & Hit 36mph, Ranked Grade A - She Reached The Podium 66 Times. Just Adopted Saturday, She Is Now Our Grade A Professional Lounger

Tiva Is A Recently Retired Racing Greyhound Who Ran 151 Races & Hit 36mph, Ranked Grade A - She Reached The Podium 66 Times. Just Adopted Saturday, She Is Now Our Grade A Professional Lounger

StoneyJoJo Report

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Hannah Edwards
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A widowed woman on my street adopted a greyhound called Dave. She told me that Dave is the best thing that ever happened to her.

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#3

My Wife And I Adopted A Former Feral Who “Chose People” Instead Of Going Back To Her Cat Gang. Meet Trish The People-Liker!

My Wife And I Adopted A Former Feral Who “Chose People” Instead Of Going Back To Her Cat Gang. Meet Trish The People-Liker!

Wu_Tang_Financial77 Report

To find out how to deal with increased anxiety levels and whether our beloved pets could be the best antidote for our troubles, we reached out to Shari Botwin, LCSW. She is a trauma specialist, therapist, speaker, and author of Thriving After Trauma: Stories of Living and Healing.

Needless to say, it’s important to follow the news and show our support to people in need. However, "Staying connected to the media hours a day and seeing images of violence, despair and loss can change the course of somebody’s day, week, or even life," Botwin told Bored Panda.

It seems that human beings are hardwired to feel some amount of empathy and sorrow for others going through adversities. We may not be physically present, but we still feel our hearts race and our emotions going on high alert. "People report that when they are attached to social media, they experience many more feelings of depression, anxiety, and some even develop PTSD just from seeing images of trauma," the therapist explained.

#4

Meet Bat. A More Apt Name Does Not Exist

Meet Bat. A More Apt Name Does Not Exist

pixieclifton , MynameisBAT Report

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#5

Just Adopted This Blind 5 Month Old Kitten (Who Gets Around Like She Can See)

Just Adopted This Blind 5 Month Old Kitten (Who Gets Around Like She Can See)

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#6

My Cat Trunks Loves Car Rides Ever Since The Ride Home From Adoption!

My Cat Trunks Loves Car Rides Ever Since The Ride Home From Adoption!

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Mazer
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had a Russian Blue who did the same, he would also follow us to the store, just like a dog. When he got tired, we would pick him up a let him ride on our shoulders, around our necks. Unfortunately he was stolen by a neighbor who moved out of State (a pox on her)

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Hearing devastating news can lead to feeling unrest and worry, which is completely justified. Yet, we need to detect these feelings before things get out of hand. Botwin said that if you notice your eating habits changing, or that you’re struggling to sleep or want to sleep all the time — "that’s an indication that your stress levels are going through the roof."

She told us that when we’re feeling anxious, tension levels might also increase in our relationships. "For instance, some people report that when they’re really stressed out, they end up taking it out on the people that they love the most." While emotions might be heightened, it’s important to remember that our loved ones are there to support and help us deal with traumatic events, so snapping at them could damage your connection to them.

"It is so easy to get caught up in the news of the world. Being mindful and aware of how much time you spend on social media is very important," she suggested. "Even when there are horrible things happening around us, ultimately, it is still most important that we take good care of ourselves."

#7

My 3 Year Old With The New Kitten I Brought Home

My 3 Year Old With The New Kitten I Brought Home

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#9

Tito, The Longest-Tenured Resident At Our Shelter, Just Got Adopted

Tito, The Longest-Tenured Resident At Our Shelter, Just Got Adopted

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#10

So That Fat Cat I Adopted Wasn't Fat After All. Cue Shenanigans

So That Fat Cat I Adopted Wasn't Fat After All. Cue Shenanigans

maxzpriv Report

Luckily, our adorable four-legged friends are always there to help us. According to research by the American Psychological Association, pet owners had greater self-esteem and were more physically fit, more extroverted, and less lonely and fearful than non-owners. "Pets benefit the lives of their owners, both psychologically and physically, by serving as an important source of social support," the researchers wrote.

#11

We Were Renting For Years In Places That Didn’t Allow Pets, But After Much Perseverance We Finally Purchased A Home Of Our Own. Meet Jonesy!

We Were Renting For Years In Places That Didn’t Allow Pets, But After Much Perseverance We Finally Purchased A Home Of Our Own. Meet Jonesy!

xo_betelgeuse Report

#12

Our Sweet Boy Before & After We Adopted Him

Our Sweet Boy Before & After We Adopted Him

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#13

My Senior Rescue Is A Mini Version Of My Other Dog

My Senior Rescue Is A Mini Version Of My Other Dog

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Shari Botwin agrees with this line of thinking. "Through the years, I have met so many clients that have adopted cats and dogs, and then have told me it’s changed the course of their lives moving forward. When people struggle with things like depression, anxiety, and PTSD, they use their pets as a source of comfort and hope," she told Bored Panda.

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"In my life earlier, when I was in recovery from extensive childhood abuse, I adopted a dog. On many occasions, I had a choice to act on feelings of self-destruction or look at my dog and say she is the thing that needs me, and this is why I will continue to take good care of myself. Some people will tell their animals: 'You are the reason I am still alive!'".

#15

Just Adopted This 14 Year Old Girl. I'm Going To Spoil Her To Death. She's Super Sweet. Her Name Is Madison

Just Adopted This 14 Year Old Girl. I'm Going To Spoil Her To Death. She's Super Sweet. Her Name Is Madison

erolandb Report

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Susanne Bækvig
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2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Glad she found a home. She will probably be very grateful for your spoiling her. Most cats or dogs from shelters are

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#16

Kitty Realizes She's Adopted And Sentenced To Life Imprisonment, Cuddles And Treatos

Kitty Realizes She's Adopted And Sentenced To Life Imprisonment, Cuddles And Treatos

MrCristobal091 Report

#17

Meet Piper. She Was Dumped At A Local Animal Shelter. Best Guess Is A 6 Month Old German Shepherd/Husky Mix. Those Eyes!

Meet Piper. She Was Dumped At A Local Animal Shelter. Best Guess Is A 6 Month Old German Shepherd/Husky Mix. Those Eyes!

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#18

My Productivity Has Dropped Dramatically Since Adopting Willow

My Productivity Has Dropped Dramatically Since Adopting Willow

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So if you are "feeling unsafe or that your world is unraveling in front of you, be sure to find ways to create safety." Botwin advised you to stay connected to the people you love the most: "Call someone. FaceTime someone. Find a place in your home that makes you feel comfortable and spend time there when you feel anxious."

"Grab a hold of your pet and think about all the love you feel between you and your animal family member," she suggested. After all, there’s nothing like looking at our four-legged friends to feel those positive emotions coming into our daily lives. And if you don’t have a furry companion by your side, looking at this list might inspire you to become a pet owner yourself.

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#19

From Found On The Street To Snuggling In The Sheets

From Found On The Street To Snuggling In The Sheets

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#20

Our Adopted Kitty Is So Happy To Have A Home! She’s Sleeping Harder Than Ever!

Our Adopted Kitty Is So Happy To Have A Home! She’s Sleeping Harder Than Ever!

Roys_Keen Report

#21

I Adopted My First Cat Yesterday. Meet Kotora

I Adopted My First Cat Yesterday. Meet Kotora

quietgavin5 Report

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#22

Chimney's Third Day Here -- And My First Ever Cat! I'm So Glad I Adopted Him

Chimney's Third Day Here -- And My First Ever Cat! I'm So Glad I Adopted Him

davilucas225 Report

#23

Rescued Our Big Boi, Don Julio. Is He Too Big!?

Rescued Our Big Boi, Don Julio. Is He Too Big!?

plantspupsandalilcat Report

#24

I Recently Adopted A Senior Kitty. She Is 10 Years Old With Most Of Her Teeth Pulled. She Was At The Shelter For 3 Months And Safe To Say, She Likes Her New Home. Everyone Welcome Beans

I Recently Adopted A Senior Kitty. She Is 10 Years Old With Most Of Her Teeth Pulled. She Was At The Shelter For 3 Months And Safe To Say, She Likes Her New Home. Everyone Welcome Beans

Candid-Bus-3855 Report

#25

Someone Turned Over This 15 Year Old Dog To The Shelter So They Could Travel. He's Safe With Me Now. This Is Bert

Someone Turned Over This 15 Year Old Dog To The Shelter So They Could Travel. He's Safe With Me Now. This Is Bert

Nurse_Kiwi Report

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Hannah Edwards
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Who could do such a selfish thing? Assholes! Glad Bert has found a new home, it could easily have meant him being euthanised.

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#26

My Family And Fang, Our 2.8lb Chihuahua Just Moved Into Our Forever Home And Someone Found The Perfect Nap Spot In Our Kitchen By A Heater Vent

My Family And Fang, Our 2.8lb Chihuahua Just Moved Into Our Forever Home And Someone Found The Perfect Nap Spot In Our Kitchen By A Heater Vent

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Mazer
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They live to make nests to stay warm. We got ours a small bed and a blanket, it’s entertaining just watching them floof the blanket just right!!

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#27

Turns Out Puppy Was Actually A Baby Goat, 11/10 Would Adopt Again

Turns Out Puppy Was Actually A Baby Goat, 11/10 Would Adopt Again

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Mazer
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The black spot below its nose looks like a child playing with butterflies

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#28

Welcomed This Sweet Fella To Our Home Yesterday. He’s Spent His Entire 5months Of Life In A Shelter So This Home Thing Is New But He’s Figuring It Out

Welcomed This Sweet Fella To Our Home Yesterday. He’s Spent His Entire 5months Of Life In A Shelter So This Home Thing Is New But He’s Figuring It Out

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#29

I Adopted My Brother-In-Law’s Cat, Cause His Baby Is Allergic To It. Safe To Say, I’m Not Getting My Armchair Back Anytime Soon

I Adopted My Brother-In-Law’s Cat, Cause His Baby Is Allergic To It. Safe To Say, I’m Not Getting My Armchair Back Anytime Soon

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Hannah Edwards
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Must be awful to have to get rid of your baby because your cat is allergic to it.

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#30

More Of Ron The Rescued Cat, After Popular Demand

More Of Ron The Rescued Cat, After Popular Demand

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Nadja Lambacher
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Aww I saw Ron's first post on reddit, he had to be rescued from a group of kids who wanted to beat him.

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#31

Just Rescued This One From A Puppy Mill That Was Getting Shut Down

Just Rescued This One From A Puppy Mill That Was Getting Shut Down

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#32

I Didn't Know I Adopted A Cat

I Didn't Know I Adopted A Cat

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Mazer
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Cat in a dog suit. I had a hundred pound super chicken in a dog suit

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#33

My Son's Rescue Cats Like Each Other!

My Son's Rescue Cats Like Each Other!

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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My two rescues are rappers. Whenever they pass each other it goes Bap Bap Bap BAP BAP BAP bap bap

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#34

We Adopted The Boy A Few Weeks Ago. He Has Many Fine Qualities But The Sleepy Teefies Feature Prominently

We Adopted The Boy A Few Weeks Ago. He Has Many Fine Qualities But The Sleepy Teefies Feature Prominently

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#35

Miss “Pretty Sure You Signed Over This Couch To Me On The Adoption Contract” Here

Miss “Pretty Sure You Signed Over This Couch To Me On The Adoption Contract” Here

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#36

We Adopted Poppy, I Think She’s Happy

We Adopted Poppy, I Think She’s Happy

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#37

I Adopted Blue 2 Weeks Ago. He’s 13 Months And 85lbs Of Love. He Knows He Found His Forever Home And You Can Tell By How Comfortable He Has Made Himself. Best Decision Ever

I Adopted Blue 2 Weeks Ago. He’s 13 Months And 85lbs Of Love. He Knows He Found His Forever Home And You Can Tell By How Comfortable He Has Made Himself. Best Decision Ever

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#38

Our Newly Adopted Baby Girl Is Showing Off Already!

Our Newly Adopted Baby Girl Is Showing Off Already!

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#39

I Also Adopted A Mouthful, This Is Lulu!

I Also Adopted A Mouthful, This Is Lulu!

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#40

Newly Adopted Pals Love Each Other - Tigs And Tonks

Newly Adopted Pals Love Each Other - Tigs And Tonks

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Note: this post originally had 62 images. It’s been shortened to the top 40 images based on user votes.