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Traveling Dog in Instanbul Gains Celebrity Status

On the city’s buses, ferries, and subways, Boji the street dog has been something of a local celebrity. A few months ago, his exploits began to surface, and local officials started to keep track of his whereabouts. They were amazed by his ingenuity.

On a typical day, one can expect Boji to cover a distance of 30 kilometers (18.6 miles), traveling through lots of Subway stations and taking two ferry trips.

“He’s such a wanderer,” Chris McGrath, a Getty Images photojournalist who got to spend a day alongside Boji throughout the city, said. All he cares about is taking a ride on a moving vehicle. The moment he sees a bus or van, he can’t help but want to hop on. “It’s a little out of this world.”

Boji takes a nap on Istanbul’s subway system. Due to his neuter and vaccination tag in his ear, you may have seen him roaming the city as a stray.

McGrath first came across Boji on Twitter, where individuals show photos and selfies of the mixed-breed canine. With tens of thousands of supporters on Twitter and Instagram, the dog has become a social media sensation.

McGrath said, “Everyone recognizes Boji now. Business owners have taken to guarding him because of the affection he has gained in the community.”

As he makes his way to Beşiktaş via ferry, onlookers snap photos of themselves with Boji. He is also well-protected by city employees, who have been taking good care of him. They brought him in for personal maintenance and a healthcare inspection early last month.

Officials also conducted behavioral research on the dog recently to ensure he is doing well and to make sure the public stays safe as well.

The city has also set up a small kennel for him outside one of their Subway stations, where he can get fed whenever he chooses to return. Then again, Boji likes to go on the run.

Keeping up with Boji was a challenge, photographer Chris McGrath noted,because he understands precisely where to go and doesn’t always slow down.

Boji jogs alongside a subway train that is about to arrive.

Using a mobile app, city workers keep an eye on Boji’s whereabouts. When McGrath met them last week, it was to spend the day following Boji, who is adept at navigating the subway system.

Dogs have an intuitive sense of where they should go when they get on a ferry, and Boji is no exception. On the Beşiktaş ferry, McGrath noted that Boji had slipped underneath the turnstiles and continued on his journey, which he said he seemed to enjoy the most.

On the subway and the Ferry, McGrath discovered that Boji enjoys looking out over all of their wheels, from the engines to their gears. Boji got his nickname from this section of the subway car. The Turkish word for “bogie” is “boji,” and the railroad term for it is “bogie area.”

Cats are the only thing Boji dislikes. Then there are the numerous stray cats that he encounters on his journeys. Except for that one flaw, he’s a model canine. He’s not doing anything in particular. Everyone adores him. McGrath said, “He’s ecstatic.”

Boji doesn’t have a hard time finding food in Istanbul since there are so many strays. Residents and restaurant operators place water and food bowls for animals around restaurants or homes, McGrath said. In that case, Boji will be on the right path.

Individuals will soon be able to see informational advertisements regarding Boji on the public transportation system, according to McGrath. However, don’t expect your dog to follow your lead.

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A Heartwarming Tale of Kindness: Gaia the Dog and Her New Life

Kevin Wells

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In a touching story of kindness and companionship, a dog named Gaia and her owner, Lisa Kanarek, are spreading joy and comfort to those in need. The story began when Gaia’s original owner, Sandra, was hospitalized, leaving Gaia confined to a small backyard. Concerned for the husky’s well-being, next-door neighbor Lisa Kanarek offered to walk her.

“I walked in, and then Gaia came up to me very slowly,” Kanarek recalled. “And then I said, ‘Oh, hi.'” What started as a kind gesture turned into a regular routine, with Kanarek walking Gaia while Sandra’s health continued to decline.

In a twist of fate, two weeks before Sandra passed away, she asked Kanarek if she would like to take care of Gaia permanently. Kanarek’s response was an enthusiastic “Sure. I would love to.” After Sandra’s death, Kanarek officially welcomed Gaia into her home, providing her with more walks and attention.

Noticing Gaia’s gentle nature with neighborhood children, Kanarek enrolled her in a pet therapy program, which she passed with flying colors. “I can tell, when I put on her vest, she’s ready to go,” Kanarek said. Their first assignment was at Children’s Medical Center Dallas, where Gaia brought comfort and joy to sick children.

Kanarek, who was finishing her training to be an end-of-life doula at the time, realized that Gaia was perfect for hospice therapy as well. Together, they now minister to the terminally ill, bringing solace and happiness in difficult times.

Asked whether she was doing this for Gaia’s benefit or for herself, Kanarek replied, “I think I’m doing this for both of us. I think it benefits both of us.” Gaia’s new life has brought her into the hearts of many, from the kids down the street to patients in hospitals. She provides laughter and levity, all with her tail wagging.

For Kanarek, life has also changed. Meeting dozens of people during their visits has brought out her extroverted tendencies, lost during the pandemic. “Before I knock on each patient’s door, I breathe in, then greet families with confidence,” she said.

As they walk through the halls of the children’s hospital, Kanarek thinks of Sandra and hopes she’s smiling, knowing how much joy Gaia brings to everyone she meets. “I’m trying not to cry,” Kanarek said, reflecting on her new life with Gaia. “It makes me happy; it makes me sad, because I wish I had known Sandra better, but I think this is the way that I’m helping keep her memory alive.”

Through their acts of kindness, Gaia and Kanarek are not only keeping Sandra’s memory alive but also making a positive impact on the lives of many.

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Frannie’s Remarkable Journey: From Overweight to Overjoyed

Kelly Taylor

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In a heartwarming story of transformation, a golden retriever named Frannie has captured the hearts of many. Once an overweight dog living a neglected life outdoors, Frannie’s journey to a healthier and happier life has inspired people around the world.

Frannie’s life took a turn for the better when Annika Bram, a 24-year-old second-year student at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, decided to foster her. Annika had recently lost her rescue dog, Georgia, who was also severely overweight when adopted. When Annika saw a video of Frannie, she immediately felt a connection.

“I think Georgia sent her to me,” Annika said, recalling how Frannie reminded her of Georgia. “Georgia is telling me I need to help this dog.”

Frannie weighed 125 pounds when she came into Annika’s care, which is about 65 pounds heavier than the average female golden retriever. Her weight was a result of a sedentary life, being fed table scraps, and untreated hypothyroidism. She never had proper vet care and was even found drinking out of a paint bucket.

The rescue operation was challenging, as it took four people to get Frannie into the back of a minivan. “She’s really been put through the wringer, and I think we got her just in time,” said Sydney Maleman, the president of the rescue group Rover’s Retreat.

Frannie was medically unstable when rescued, suffering from pneumonia and unable to hold her head up on her own. However, under Annika’s care, she has made remarkable progress. In less than three months, Frannie has lost 31 pounds, thanks to a strict weight-loss diet, thyroid medication, and increased exercise.

“Every day, her personality comes out more,” Annika said. “All that personality has been hidden away for so long.” Frannie now enjoys a bubbly nature and a sassy side, and Annika’s goal is to get her down to around 70 pounds.

The best part of Frannie’s transformation is seeing her enjoy life as a normal dog, with more autonomy and independence. Annika has now decided to adopt Frannie, giving her a forever home. “She’s not going anywhere,” Annika declared.

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Worcester Library’s Unique Approach to Solving Library Fees: March Meow

Renee Yates

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In Worcester, Massachusetts, the local library has come up with a creative and fun way to address the issue of lost or damaged books. The program, known as “March Meow,” allows library guests to reactivate their accounts by simply showing a picture of a cat. This innovative initiative is open to anyone who has misplaced or damaged a borrowed book and runs through the end of March.

Participants in the March Meow program can bring in any form of cat imagery, whether it’s a photo, a drawing, or a magazine clipping, to get their library card reactivated. The library has even set up a cat wall in the main building to display the various cat pictures and drawings contributed by patrons. This lighthearted approach has been a hit, with hundreds of returns already and numerous postings of random cat photos.

The local NPR affiliate, WBUR, described the initiative as a “never be-fur tried initiative,” encouraging patrons to “act meow.” Jason Homer, the executive director of the Worcester Library, is feeling “feline good” about the response. “We take a lot of honorary cats,” he said, referring to the diverse range of cat representations being accepted.

Even those without a cat can participate. One example is a 7-year-old boy who had not returned a “Captain Underpants” book. He had his library card reactivated after the staff provided him with paper and crayons to sketch a cat. “It spiraled in a good way from there,” Mr. Homer noted. “We were just trying to figure out the lowest barrier possible.”

The library’s message is clear: “It’s OK, we forgive you. Just show us a picture of a cat.” This approach not only addresses the issue of lost or damaged books but also helps to soften the stereotype of the stern librarian. “We don’t really have the high buns and ‘shush’ people anymore,” Mr. Homer said. “We are still book lovers, cardigan lovers, and cat lovers.”

Overall, the March Meow program is a unique and effective way for the Worcester Library to promote accountability and forgiveness among its patrons, all while celebrating the community’s love for cats.

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Sparkle’s Journey: From Interstate Danger to a Loving Home

Kevin Wells

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In the bustling city of Boston, a tiny puppy found herself in a dangerous situation that could have ended very sadly. This puppy, a 10-week-old Chihuahua named Sparkle, was spotted wandering near the busy Interstate 93. Weighing only 3 pounds and with her all-black fur, Sparkle was in a risky spot for such a small animal. Luckily, her story takes a turn for the better, showing us how kindness and compassion can make a huge difference.

About a week and a half ago, someone living nearby saw Sparkle and kept an eye on her. After a couple of days, they noticed her on an on-ramp to the highway. They knew they had to act quickly to save her from getting hurt by passing cars. Thanks to their quick thinking, Sparkle was rescued and brought to safety. Mike DeFina, the media relations manager for the Animal Rescue League of Boston, highlighted how important it is for people to help when they see animals in need. “That’s why Sparkle is here today,” he said, grateful for the rescue.

The Animal Rescue League wasn’t sure how Sparkle ended up near the highway or how long she had been living on the streets. They thought she might have been abandoned. After trying and failing to find her owners, Sparkle was put up for adoption, ready to find a new family who would love and care for her.

Enter Joe and Tesla Chafins, a couple who were about to give Sparkle the home she needed. Joe, who works for the Pine Street Inn, heard about Sparkle from a co-worker. The story of how Sparkle was found touched their hearts. “We just heard the story and we’re like: ‘We’ve got to go meet her,'” Joe explained. It was around Joe’s birthday, and meeting Sparkle seemed like the perfect way to celebrate.

The Chafins are no strangers to caring for animals; they already have three cats, one of which was adopted from the Animal Rescue League of Boston, and a few lizards. They describe themselves as huge animal lovers, jokingly saying they have a zoo at home. Sparkle would be their first dog, but they were excited to welcome her into their family and give her the best life possible.

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Bus Driver’s Heartwarming Act: Helping a Boy on Pajama Day

Kevin Wells

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In Louisville, Kentucky, a heartwarming story unfolded on a school day that was meant to be special for young Levi, a first-grader at Engelhard Elementary School. It was Pajama Day, and all the kids were excited to wear their cozy pajamas to school. But Levi didn’t have any pajamas, and this made him very sad.

Levi’s usual cheerful demeanor caught the attention of his bus driver, Larry Farrish Jr., known for his kindness and caring nature. Larry noticed Levi sitting on the ground with a jacket over his head instead of his usual spot waiting with a big smile. Concerned, Larry asked Levi what was wrong.

Through tears, Levi explained that he didn’t have pajamas for Pajama Day. This touched Larry’s heart, and he knew he had to help. After finishing his morning routes, Larry went to a nearby store and bought two pairs of pajamas for Levi. He then went to Levi’s school to deliver them.

When Levi saw the pajamas, his face lit up with excitement. He hugged them tightly, grateful for Larry’s kindness. Levi even said, “I can tell Mr. Larry is nice and his heart is filled with joy,” and “When he got me the pajamas, I did a happy cry.”

Larry, who has worked in various professions before finding his passion for bus driving, says he loves building bonds with the children. After the school district shared the story on Facebook, many people praised Larry for his kindness and shared their own positive experiences with him.

Larry Farrish Jr.’s act of kindness not only made Levi’s day but also inspired many others. It’s a reminder that small gestures of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s life.

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