Five Notable Incidents of Animal-Related Mischief Across the U.S. in 2025
WASHINGTON — Throughout 2025, a series of unusual incidents involving animals making headlines for their unexpected behavior have captured public attention across the United States, according to reports from various local authorities and animal protection agencies.
In California, a foster cat named Wendy was caught on security cameras adding a dead mouse to her foster family’s cooking pot, an act described by the Merced SPCA as “spicing up” dinner. The incident was shared publicly in October, highlighting the cat’s mischievous behavior in the kitchen.
That same month in North Carolina, a family dog named Colton inadvertently started a fire by chewing on a device containing a lithium-ion battery. The Chapel Hill Fire Department released footage showing the dog retreating as smoke and flames emerged from the device, which ignited a living room rug. Fortunately, the fire was contained to the rug, and the dog was unharmed.
In August, deputies from the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office responded to a burglary report at the Ice Cream Shop at Camp Richardson in South Lake Tahoe, California. Upon arrival, deputies found a large bear behind the counter, which appeared interested only in strawberry ice cream. The bear was eventually encouraged to leave the premises.
In Ohio, a deer caused a disturbance in November by breaking through a window at the Amherst Junior High cafeteria while staff were preparing breakfast. According to the school principal, Andrew Hoffman, no significant injuries occurred despite the presence of students and staff. The deer was contained with assistance from the Amherst Police Department and safely guided out of the building.
In Virginia, animal control officers responded to a break-in at an ABC liquor store in Ashland on November 29. Authorities found that a raccoon had ransacked several shelves, sampled various liquors from broken bottles, and then fallen asleep in the store’s bathroom. The Hanover County Animal Protection and Shelter reported that the raccoon was captured and taken to the shelter to sober up.
These incidents illustrate a range of unexpected animal behaviors that have led to property damage and unusual situations, drawing attention to the complex interactions between humans and wildlife or pets. Officials and animal protection groups have shared these stories to raise awareness and provide insight into the challenges of coexisting with animals in diverse environments.
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