First there was ‘the dog and crow’ playing ping pong together, then came the orangutan and the hound, which saw the duo act like long lost friends enjoying each other’s company, and then we met Bubbles, the baby elephant and Bella, her canine sidekick, who captured the hearts of millions, but did you ever think you might hear about a dog and rat becoming BFFs?
Meet Osiris, a 3-year-old Dutch Shepherd cross, and his friend Riff Ratt, a 3-month-old fancy rat. This Chicago based atypical duo have taken Instagram by storm sharing special moments at home.
Speaking of their unique special friendship, owner Mickey Alice Kwapis, who an experienced foster carer and involved in wildlife rehab said: “Osiris was abandoned as a tiny puppy in a parking lot and from the time I rescued him that night until now, he has received special training to be extremely gentle with baby animals, such as mice, squirrels, kittens, raccoons and puppies, and help keep them warm between sessions on a heating pad, which can be dangerous and overheat. In February, on Valentine’s Day, my boyfriend, Eric and I were at a pet store looking at lizards when we fell in love with one of the baby feeder rats, which they use as live food for reptiles. His eyes were barely open and we knew we had to have him as part of our family.”
Mickey continued, “So we brought him home, named him Riff Ratt and bottle-fed him for a few weeks, and nursed him back to health. Osiris was by our side the whole time, licking up spilled milk and helping groom Riff because he was too small for baths. When his eyes finally opened all the way, Riff was so used to the smell and feel of Osiris that it didn’t phase him in the least, and they were instant best friends. They began playing together as soon as he was old enough and now share toys, eat the same treats, cuddle and play together.”
Speaking with Mashable, the pair’s owner said: “I’m sure you all are wondering if we’re afraid Osiris will eat Riff – NOPE! Osiris has helped foster and care for dozens of animals and he is the gentlest dog I’ve ever met.”
Keep up to date with their adventures and latest photos and videos on Instagram by following them @osirisandriff
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