Coming home from the vet, Annie leans out of the side pocket of her carrier to seek travel solace from Rusty. 

A few years ago, at work, I came upon the book Unlikely Friendships .  I turned its pages in awe as I viewed the unique photos of opposite species together. As well, the accompanying stories surely warmed my heart.  Since I first saw this book five years ago, a plethora of books and just images themselves have exploded both in publication and on the internet.  Just google "unlikely friendships" and click images. Your eyes will feast on sweet photos of not only domesticated species, but zoo-type animal friendships like tigers and bear (Oh my!) 

I now have a collection a "unlikely" books.  In my capacity in Life Enrichment Activities with seniors in Dementia and Alzheimer's, I use these them for reading or simply photo enjoyment with individuals and small groups.  As well, for myself, I find that as the audience is going, "Awwwww...."  internally I find myself smiling along with them, and marveling, and, perhaps oddly......calming down.  I find myself thinking soothing thoughts that comfort me. Thoughts like, "If animals can come together like this, maybe humans can, too."  And on a more personal note I feel less lonely  and isolated as I vicariously view these wonderful special, new animal friendships. I don't know how to explain it that during those few moments of reading, I close the book comforted almost as if I just read my Bible.  

Here are some of my favorites. I encourage you, dear readers, to consider them as gifts for young and old alike and even yourself: Happy Birthday, Get Well Soon, Happy Retirement, etc. !!!