Bandito, the one-eyed cat, is the 2022 Pet Pageant's Crown Champion.

Bandito, the one-eyed cat, may have become the mascot for 2021. We're all feeling scarred, scrappy, and worn down after a second year characterized by the pandemic, but we've also proven to be undeniably strong while navigating this new environment.

Bandito's short seven months of existence have been influenced by suffering as well. After straying into a ranch looking rather ragged with just a single peeper, the black and white domestic shorthair ended up at Best Friends Veterinary Medical Center in South Portland as a young kitten. Bandito was soon adopted by one of the technicians working that day after the rancher brought him to the clinic.

The bottoms of his feet, even at 12 weeks, were all brown from his lengthy voyage from wherever he came from, recalls Meghan Howard-Hakala, Bandito's owner.

Bandito won more votes than any of the other 702 pets nominated, and is the 2022 Crown Champion of DoveLewis Veterinary Emergency Hospital's annual Pet Pageant. After all, Portland is known for rooting for the underdog—er, cat.

One of the tiny pleasures of COVID has been the immense comfort our pets have provided us.

You'll discover a photo homage to nearly two dozen of these critters in this issue, ranging from fluffy bunnies to adorable ducks to a goat that Portlanders are rooting for to be the face of the next cryptocurrency. Click here to see the complete results of our Pet Pageant, which received over 11,000 votes.

We chatted with two behavioral specialists about methods that would prepare Fido to get through an eight-hour workday alone in order to gain guidance on how to help your dog cope with the delayed return to work.

We also sought explanations from local veterinarians as to why appointments are becoming scarcer than cream cheese.

If you've ever considered fostering an animal, whether out of altruism or fear of long-term commitment, a woman who has acted as a temporary guardian to dozens of kittens discusses the procedure.

We came upon a residence in the Overlook neighborhood that has a jungle gym of squirrel feeders and a little condo for stray cats.

Finally, we've compiled a list of the top bar patios in each area, where four-legged guests are not only welcome, but encouraged, and where dog-friendly amenities abound.

During a worldwide health crisis, a one-eyed cat may seem like a foolish symbol of hope, but these are unusual times. It's now his time to shine.

Details Here