In the cutest newsflash of all time, a fox and a dog have become the best of friends, giving us serious #squadgoals.
Juniper, a one-year-old North American red fox and Moose, a six-year-old Australian Shepherd mix are stealing everyone’s hearts with their unusual friendship. Taking a leaf right out of Disney's The Fox and The Hound film (1981), the pair met last year when Juniper was rescued as a baby and have been inseparable ever since.
Proving that opposites really do attract, their owner Jess told Bored Panda that Moose took on the role of Juniper's guardian as soon as they met: “I brought Juniper home when she was only five weeks old. Moose was raised around all kinds of animals so when [Juniper] ran up to him tail wagging and crying they were instantly friends.”
While Juniper has her own fenced-in area outside, she can instead often be found following Moose around and jumping on top of him like she just can't get enough of her best friend. “She’s also loved him from day one,” Jess said. “Foxes put their butts on things they want to own or think is theirs. Moose gets sat on daily. I’ll often walk into the room and see Moose laying down with such a glum look on his face while Juniper is there just sitting on his head smiling.”
So how do the terrible two spend their days?
Walking and chilling in the woods
Cooling off in the lakes
Enjoying a light snack in the afternoon
Getting some much needed some downtime
Cuddles!
Play fighting (Moose looks less interested than Juniper)
Party time!
Just joking around
Hanging out on the sofa with their human
Greeting each other when they walk through the door
Scratching each other's itches
You guys!
Most importantly, loving each other every day
Could the pair be any more perfect?
While their friendship may seem straight out of a fairy tale, Jess is quick to warn others that a fox does not make a good pet – notoriously territorial, they don’t get on well with children, can be aggressive and require around the clock commitment.
Looking for more great animal news? Check out 12 Pet Rescues That Will Melt Your Heart and 9 Of The Cutest Baby Animals Ever. You can stock up on all your pet supplies at your nearest Asda.