The Global Phenomenon of Viral Animals: Six Stories of Internet Fame
In the digital age, the internet has given rise to a new kind of celebrity—animals. These creatures have captivated millions, transcending geographic and cultural boundaries to become global sensations. The stories of these viral animals often provide not only entertainment but also valuable lessons about the human-animal connection, environmental conservation, and the power of social media. Here, we explore six animals that went viral around the world, each with a unique story that highlights their journey to fame and the impact they’ve had on their audiences.
62. The Japanese Shiba Inu Duo: Shiba Inu and Kabosu
Shiba Inu, the breed that has taken the internet by storm, owes much of its fame to Kabosu, a rescue dog from Japan. Kabosu’s owner, Atsuko Sato, shared a photo of her on a blog in 2010, which eventually became the face of the “Doge” meme. The image of Kabosu with her quizzical expression and seemingly comic sans captions quickly spread, turning her into a global icon. The meme’s popularity has led to various charitable campaigns, promoting animal welfare and rescue efforts worldwide.
