Today’s lunch-links feature a mix of the off-beat news that keeps NewsFeed, and us all really, going.
Animals
WATCH: Willow the Cat Reunites with Her Family, May Become Star of a Children’s Book
NewsFeed has been chronicling the saga of Willow the Cat (or, “the cat who went rogue”) diligently, and now we’re here to report that the beloved calico is reunited with her Colorado family—and more fame may be around the corner.
China Bans Ancient Dog-Eating Festival Amid Online Outcry
For the first time in 600 years, residents of Qianxi Township, China, will be banned from holding an ancient dog-eating festival after the public voiced their discontent on the Internet.
Have a Dog-Day Hotel Stay: Some Resorts Now Offering Pets as Perks
Hotel for Dogs? No, thanks. Hotels with dogs? Yes, please!
Reading While Eating for September 22: Alternative Perspectives
Today’s lunch links give you a taste of the other side whether it’s unimaginable opinions or insight into how unemployed Americans live.
Florida Teenager Catches Massive 800-Pound Alligator
When 19-year-old Tim Stroh first saw the alligator in the St. Lucie Canal, he wasn’t impressed, thinking it was “just” a nine-footer.
Missing Colorado Cat Turns Up In Manhattan — Five Years Later
This is the story of Willow, the cat who went rogue.
Shirley the Smoking Orangutan Forced to Kick Her Habit
We’re not monkeying around here. Shirley is being denied her beloved cigarettes in an attempt to return her to the wild.
Petland Chain to Phase Out Sales of Puppies and Kittens
It may be fun to pop into a pet store at the mall while running errands to get in some cuddle time with the adorable puppy in the window, but those days are over.
150 Dogs, 80 Puppies Seized From Hawaii Breeders and Handed to Humane Society
Some 230 dogs and puppies held in temporary foster care should go to the Hawaiian Humane Society, a judged has ruled, in a case against breeders accused of running a filthy puppy mill in violation of animal cruelty laws.
Creepy Coincidence: Belmont Race Winners Wore 9, 1 and 1 on Sept. 11 Anniversary
On the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks, the first three winners at Belmont this past Sunday were horses bearing the numbers 9, 1 and 1.
Boo Does NYC: How Did ‘The Cutest Dog in the World’ Get So Famous?
He’s undeniably cute. But how did he rocket to fame? TIME talks to Boo’s “human,” J.H. Lee.