This Rescue Kangaroo Loves To Chill On The Couch With His Dad So Much That He Made It A Part Of His Daily Routine
Rufus is not your average kangaroo, and that is exactly why people cannot stop watching him. Instead of spending his days acting like a typical wild animal, this rescued joey has turned couch time into a full-blown routine.
He was taken in by Kym and Neil Haywood at the Pumpkin Patch Kangaroo Sanctuary in Port Lincoln, South Australia, after being rescued as an eight-month-old joey.
Once he gets inside, the couch is basically his. Read on.
Rufus is not like any other kangaroo you've seen before.

Napping with his dad is his favorite pastime.

He has to remain adorable while sleeping. He doesn't want to risk his couch privileges.

The relationship between pets and their owners can be profoundly therapeutic, as studies in animal-assisted therapy demonstrate. The unconditional love and companionship that pets provide can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels in humans.
Waking up from a nap, the kangaroo is already looking forward to the next one.

You can watch Rufus here getting spoiled rotten with belly rubs before his sleep.
"Stop taking pictures when I'm about to sleep!"

"Okay, pictures are fine if you rub my belly."

Moreover, attachment theory explains how the bond formed with pets can mirror the emotional connections we develop with humans. Research indicates that our relationships with animals can fulfill similar psychological needs, providing comfort, security, and companionship.
This is particularly evident in scenarios where pets serve as emotional support, helping individuals navigate loneliness or depression.
Rufus’s bond with his dad feels similar to a dog owner who found a baby koala hitching a ride on his Golden Retriever.
After a hard day of being an outdoor kangaroo, Rufus takes advantage of his nightly couch routine.

So, so sleepy.
When Rufus is not deep in slumber on the couch, he doesn't mind if his parents watch a little TV. He stays on the couch from 5 PM until his parents have to go to bed around 10 PM.

"I'm out!"

Establishing a routine with pets can also contribute to emotional stability. Research in developmental psychology highlights how structured daily activities can enhance mental health, particularly in vulnerable populations.
Having a pet can provide a sense of purpose and responsibility, which can be especially beneficial for individuals struggling with mental health issues.
Here's Rufus being told that it's bedtime:
Rufus now has eternal dibs on the comfy cushions. Kym and Neil don't mind that their rescue kangaroo has fully claimed the sofa as his.
Rufus and his antics have earned him a sizable social media following. People love receiving updates from Rufus on his couch through his Instagram and YouTube accounts.
Kym and Neil assure the fans that his newfound fame hasn't inflated Rufus's ego. The kangaroo remains humble and will continue being down to earth as long as he has his couch reserved for him.
Encouraging positive interactions between pets and their owners can lead to more profound emotional connections. Engaging in activities such as playtime, training, and walks can strengthen the bond, providing mutual joy and satisfaction.
The heartwarming relationship between this kangaroo and his owner exemplifies the profound impact of companionship on emotional well-being.
Rufus’s couch routine is adorable, but watch mom kangaroo tenderly hug her baby next.