Golden retriever is so stressed it needs an emotional support kitten to help with anxiety

Man's best friend has a new best friend

Everyone gets a little stressed, even dogs - like this Golden Retriever who gets so anxious he needs an emotional support cat with him to keep him calm. Horlicks, the golden retriever from Syndey, Australia, gets super stressed anytime he is left at home alone so for this relatable pooch's birthday, his owners bought him a new best friend. Horlicks' owner explained to The Dodo: "When he celebrated his birthday, I thought that another sibling is going to help him with all this separation anxiety." Though siblings might be a bit of a stretch given that they are two separate species, Horlicks found himself with a new British shorthair called Hero. "Horlicks was able to say 'hi' and meet up with Hero," their owner said. "He then starts to realise that Horlicks is a gentle giant - and that's when their relationship really picked up." Initially, the doggo was said to be confused by his new friend, swiping at his tail occasionally - but now they do everything together, from playing to napping. Horlicks is now "feline fine" when left at home thanks to his new best friend. Outside of the house, Horlicks and Hero enjoy the occasional morning walk together and beach trips for topping up their tans. On Horlicks' Instagram account, which boasts 45k followers, both the doggo and Hero are seen living their best lives. On his 8th birthday in December, Horlicks and Hero are seen in front of a celebratory cake. While Hero is licking at the frosting, Horlicks looks stoic in the background. Strangely, the comments are full of other dogs and animals wishing their friend a happy birthday. "Happy belated birthday!" said Sophie, the therapy dog, while Nighthawk the black cat said: "Awww, Horlicks, silly kitty licking your cake, Happy birthday my goodest doggee fren!" Hendrix, the staffy said: "I am so sorry I missed your special day." Related links:

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