Karma the American bulldog is about four years older and 40 pounds heavier than Gigi the Chihuahua. But from the way the two act around each other, you’d never know it.
Five-year-old Karma and 1-year-old Gigi were surrendered to the Animal Rescue League of Boston in early November, shelter officials said. Despite the difference in their age and size, the female pups have forged a strong, cozy bond, making them the shelter’s resident odd couple.
Now, staffers are trying to find a home that will adopt them both in time for the holidays.
“It’s not too often we see a pair like this,” said Mike DeFina, a spokesperson for the Animal Rescue League, which also operates locations in Dedham and Cape Cod.
The two dogs come from the same “unfortunate housing situation,” DeFina said, though details of their history were not disclosed. But it wasn’t until they arrived at the shelter that they grew close.
“They were friendly with one another, you know, but they weren’t necessarily what we would consider to be bonded,” he said. “Now they’re almost inseparable. … Whether out for a walk or out playing or even taking a nap, they’re always together.”
Despite her size, Karma can be “a little on the fearful side,” DeFina said, especially in the shelter, an environment that can be stressful for new animals. But when paired with Gigi, she was able to relax, the staff learned.
“They balance each other out perfectly,” DeFina said. “And they really don’t know how much different they are in size. When they’re playing together, they’re very gentle with one another. They’re just a joy to watch and to be around.”
DeFina likened the two to “Spike and Chester” the Looney Tunes shorts that paired a burly, brawling bulldog and a small, perky terrier. Given the contrast, just seeing the two side-by-side can be funny, he said.
It may be a challenge to find someone willing to adopt both dogs, DeFina acknowledged, since people who adopt multiple pets tend to opt for smaller animals, such as rabbits or kittens. But he remains optimistic.
“Once they find that perfect match, they’re going to do wonderful,” he said.
The Animal Rescue League shelter in Dedham, the pair’s temporary home, is open Tuesdays through Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Camilo Fonseca can be reached at camilo.fonseca@globe.com. Follow him on X @fonseca_esq and on Instagram @camilo_fonseca.reports.
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