7 days ago
Bonded Pair of 15-Year-Old Shelter Dogs Desperate To Be Adopted Together
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Two 15-year-old dog siblings have melted hearts across the internet, as their shelter hopes to find them a forever home—ideally, together.
Oliver and Savannah were placed in the care of Frosted Faces Foundation, a California-based nonprofit that specializes in senior dog rescue, in March after their owner passed away.
A heartwarming TikTok video of the elderly pups sleeping side-by-side, shared by @peakepups, has racked up over 33,200 likes and more than 178,300 views on the platform.
"Over the past three-plus months, while on-site and in a foster home, we've gotten to know them very well; their sweet personalities, resilience, and all the ways they are different," Kelly Smíšek, from the Frosted Faces Foundation, told Newsweek.
"While we would love to see Oliver and Savannah find a forever home together, what matters most is that they spend their remaining years as cherished family members," Smíšek added.
@peakepups
Oliver Joe and Savannah Joe are 15 years old and available for adoption through @frostedfaces in Ramona, California. They have a $0 adoption fee and cover medical for life at their on-site vet. Their adoption application is linked in our bio. ♬ The Winner Is... - DeVotchKa Version - DeVotchKa
Smíšek described Oliver as a happy and affectionate dog who still behaves much younger than his age. He enjoys morning greetings, car rides, and even stand-up paddleboarding. Back scratches are a particular favorite.
Oliver is spending time with a temporary foster family as part of Frosted Faces' "Frosted Fling" program, while Savannah has returned to her previous foster home. Both are said to be thriving in their respective placements.
Oliver's temporary caregiver shared further insights into his personality, noting: "Oliver is a gentle, easygoing pup who gets along wonderfully with dogs, cats, and people alike. At 15, he's still full of youthful energy and spirit—his cheerful, bouncy gait makes every walk feel like an adventure," she said.
Oliver is full-potty trained and while not a lapdog, loves affection and pets.
"Oliver is truly a sweet soul with a warm heart—wise beyond his years but still young at heart," she added.
A split image showing the senior dogs, Oliver and Savannah, up for adoption
A split image showing the senior dogs, Oliver and Savannah, up for adoption
Frosted Faces Foundation/Frosted Faces Foundation
Savannah, meanwhile, is described as a quiet and gentle soul who, despite being both blind and deaf, is incredibly adaptable. She loves to rearrange the room, by scooting her bed across the floor until it is the way she likes it. The pup is also a great car passenger.
"Savannah is a quiet, sweet, super mellow girl. Although, she is blind and deaf, she had no trouble mapping my home and yard," her foster carer said.
"Savannah comes up often to boop my leg for pets or to get picked up. She loves to be held, especially cradled like a baby, and she sleeps through the night in my bed," her foster carer added.
The Frosted Faces Foundation offers lifelong veterinary care coverage for the dogs, and there is no adoption fee—just a commitment to provide them a loving home.
Bonded pairs such as Oliver and Savannah can be more challenging to place, but the emotional rewards are significant.
Rescue in Style says that bonded pairs often offer built-in companionship; reduce anxiety for each other; and help new adopters adjust more quickly. While some may worry about double the responsibility, many find that the bond between the animals creates a more-harmonious household dynamic.
There are also distinct benefits to adopting senior dogs. As pet-food manufacturer Purina highlights, older dogs are typically calmer, require less-intensive exercise, and are often already trained. Their personalities are fully formed, making it easier for adopters to find a good match. Perhaps most importantly, giving an older dog a loving home in their twilight years is one of the most-rewarding experiences for a pet owner.
The video has struck a chord with TikTok viewers, many of whom shared their hopes for the siblings' future.
"My sweet senior dog just passed, I would love to give these guys the best in their final years. Do you allow out of state adoptions? I can come see and meet them, I am in Vegas," posted one user.
"Someone pls [please] help them and keep them together. Their owner died and it's tough for them … my heart is broken for them! Hope they live out the rest of their lives together in happiness," commented another.
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