While struggling with her own loss, one woman has shared how she opened her home to two rescue dogs, ensuring they would remain together for the rest of their days.
Darlene Segers’ story with pets began in 1987 when she and her husband moved to their country home. Their first furry family member was a puppy they bought for just $5 at a yard sale. As time went on, their household expanded to include several beloved dogs, each bringing joy and companionship. However, the heart-wrenching losses of these pets took a toll on Segers and her husband.
“Recently, my husband passed, which left me feeling extremely sad and lonely,” Segers told Newsweek. Struggling with loneliness, she visited the nearest Humane Society and came home with a crossbreed dog. Yet, that wasn’t the end of her adoption story.
A friend later told Segers about two little shih-poos—a cross between a Shih Tzu and a poodle—who were inseparable, and Segers knew she couldn’t let them be split up.
Later that day, she welcomed them both into her home—keeping the siblings together and turning her home into a hub of activity.
Pictures of the shih-poo sisters in a cage enjoying their life together. Their owner told Newsweek that their presence has kept her from feeling lonely after her husband died.
Darlene Segers
In 2023, 6.5 million animals entered U.S. shelters, according to Shelter Animals Count, up 4 percent when compared to 2022 intakes. At the end of 2023, 117,000 additional dogs and cats were in the animal sheltering system compared to the same time the year before.
A study conducted by the University of Sydney found that new dog owners reported a significant reduction in loneliness within three months of acquiring their pet. Owners were also more likely to report better well-being than those without a pup.
“They are never lonely. They play all day with the odd battle now and then, like sisters will. They are always snuggling at night,” Segers said. Though caring for three dogs is a bit more work, Darlene said it is “totally worth it.”
“My home is no longer quiet. I love them all. They keep me really busy, and, at night, very tired,” she said.
Segers added that she hopes her story will encourage other people to consider adoption pets, especially siblings that may otherwise be separated. “I am hoping that these stories will encourage people to think about doing the same; they will be glad they did,” she said.
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
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