The Dutch Shepherd and 3-month-old rat are an unusual pair of friends. Osiris, the dog, and Riff Rat, the rat, are strangely close – Osiris even lets Riff climb in his mouth to clean his teeth!
Their bond began with Orisir’s parents rescued Riff at just 4 weeks old. The rat hadn’t even opened his eyes and had to be nursed back to health with a syringe and lots of love.
The family previously rescued Osiris (who was abandoned in a parking lot as a puppy). Osiris’s adoptive parents took him in to what they thought would be a foster situation – but ended up keeping him forever (#fosterfail). Osiris was then trained as a therapy dog and has aided his family as they cared for many different animals of all sizes.
Though his family was actually hesitant about introducing Osiris and Riff initially, their worries quickly evaporated as they realized the bond the two formed instantly.
“Riff Ratt really likes licking the inside of Osiris’ mouth. I’m sure you all are wondering if we’re afraid Osiris will eat Riff – NOPE! Osiris has helped foster and care for dozens of animals and he is the gentlest dog I’ve ever met,” the family wrote on their Instagram.
As it turns out, Riff isn’t the only rat Osiris took a liking to. The family later adopted Pocket (who recently passed away – RIP Pocket!) who also formed a fast and furious relationship with Osiris. We’re not sure why Osiris has such a soft spot in his heart for rats, but it’s beautiful to watch. Enjoy these pictures of the oddly amazing duos!
