Here's how much it costs to own a dog or cat in 2026

If it feels like caring for your pet has gotten a lot more expensive lately, you’re not alone: the cost of dog and pet parenthood has risen 15% over the past year.

No kids, more dogs, and family-style platters: Welcome to the future of dining

Ditch the kids, bring the dogs. That’s the message from diners who overwhelmingly want to eat at places where they do not have to worry about children interrupting their meals. 

WA gray whale deaths hit 23 after latest Olympic Coast discovery

A 23rd gray whale washed ashore in WA, the 6th in May alone, as scientists track a record die-off, per the Cascadia Research Collective.

Harbor seal shot in head in Hood Canal dies after recovery
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The harbor seal that was found shot in the head in the Hood Canal has tragically died after undergoing months of rehabilitation.

23rd gray whale death reported along Washington coast
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The 23rd gray whale death of 2026 has washed ashore the Washington coastline, marking the sixth death in the state in May alone.

Fishin' time in WA: Free fishing weekend happening in June, WDFW announces

The WDFW announced that this year's free fishing weekend will return across Washington state June 6–7, allowing people to fish for many species without purchasing a license. Some species remain explicitly banned, however.

Scientists track Washington sea otter comeback
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Scientists are using drones, stopwatches and spotting scopes along Washington's Olympic Coast to track sea otter foraging habits, hoping to assess their recovery and potential future reintroduction to Oregon.

21 gray whales have washed up on WA shores this year

The 21st dead gray whale to be discovered along the Washington coast in 2026 was recorded along the shores of Willapa Bay.

WA man released after Seattle court hearing for monk seal attack

Igor Lytvynchuk was released after his federal court appearance in Seattle, but is due for another in Honolulu on May 27.

Utah firefighters help save millions of honeybees

Utah firefighters help keep millions of honeybees cool after a truck carrying hundreds of hives broke down on a highway.

This social media star can't walk, but she loves to drive and dance

Kiki the sheep drives her own vehicle, changes the radio station, and inspires people across the globe. She’s also certified sassy.

Florida alligator caught on video eating smaller gator at Gatorland

Nature’s brutal side was on full display at Gatorland in Orlando when startled visitors witnessed an alligator turn a smaller peer into a midday snack a couple of months ago.

Hawaii monk seal rock thrower arrested, to appear in Seattle court

The man accused of hurling a rock at an endangered seal in Hawaii was arrested and is set to appear in U.S. District Court in Seattle.