Just like people, dogs have a hard time coping with the loss of a family member. It may take a few days or months for them to adjust, but they still need a lot of love and understanding. The most tragic incident occurred in Nuevo, California, where two dogs lost their owners to long-term illness. The dogs were curled up on the couch at home for days, heartbroken. They are confused, with no plan and no one to guide them, until the friendly rescuers arrive!

sad scene

dogs in the attic

A woman named Doreen contacted Hope For Paws about Debbie and Gidget. These were two dogs left behind by a late friend.

Despite having their best interests at heart, Doreen was unable to help the dogs herself as they were too shy and afraid to go outside. HFP’s Cathy McKittrick and Alex Babcock finally arrived at the location after driving two hours outside of Los Angeles.

Doreen explained that dogs never leave the house. He tried to lure them with food and snacks, but they always waited for him to leave the area and then went out to gather food.

dog in storage

Alex and Katie said their behavior was perfectly normal given the circumstances. Both Debbie and Gidget seem to still be in shock from their loss and it takes a while for them to start trusting again.

The rescuers slowly entered the house and saw the dogs curled up on the couch. They looked scared on their faces, but they didn’t give up.

dog in the dirty room

Katie slowly approached them and used a soft trap to secure them both. After the hard part was over, the rescuers put the dogs in separate crates and loaded them into the car. Doreen was very grateful to the friendly team who arrived in time and saved Debbie and Gidget’s lives.

learn to trust again

poor sad dog

After initial care and checks, the dogs were turned over to L A Animal Rescue, who offered to foster them until they found suitable homes.

At first, Debbie and Gidget were afraid to interact, but after a while they both started to come out of their shells. After their identities are revealed, their adoptive parents discover that Gidget is the leader of the group. Debbie always had her sister and always depended on her. In a way, he was his own personal protector.

Contented dog resting on the grass

“Gidget is the more protective of the pair. He is the leader of the group and likes to be in charge. More vocal and passive. He is very sweet and cute and loves kisses and hugs after meeting you,” the HFP team wrote on their website.

After spending a few months at the orphanage, both dogs became the most adorable love bugs. They are really getting used to their new surroundings, which shows that they are ready to meet their new owners.

I’m sure Gidget and Debbie will make their family happy when the time comes!