What better way to kick off the re-launch of Animal Intelligence than a story of inter-species friendship?

As long-time readers know (if there are still any long-time readers remaining), and as new readers will soon learn, I have a soft spot for stories about animal odd couples. A cat who is raised by a crow? Check. Chickens who are friends with cats and monkeys? Love it. A duck and a chicken raising a family together? Perfect.

Well, here’s a two-year-old story from CBS News about another sort of animal odd couple:

On an elephant sanctuary in Tennessee, female elephants come to retire. And when they do, they form lasting friendships. They pair off with a favorite companion. But Tara’s best friend isn’t an elephant — it’s a dog.

The elephant sanctuary isn’t just home to elephants; it’s also home to more than a dozen stray dogs, most of which have no interest in the elephants. But Tara and Bella have become best friends. They eat, sleep, and play together.

Don’t believe it? Watch til the end of the video where it becomes very clear that Tara has a real and lasting bond with her dog.

As I say, I’m quite fond of stories about inter-species relationships. You’re sure to see many more in the months ahead. (And if you have one of your own, please send it in!)