Santa Barbara Humane finds new home for Deaf Dog and Bonded Companion

Archie and Shorty are senior dogs who arrived already bonded to Santa Barbara Humane. Immediately upon arrival to the shelter, it became apparent that not only were they a bonded pair, but also Archie’s elder sister Shorty had become his safeguard and support. Archie is deaf and relies on Shorty to guide him and help him feel safe in the world.

As they settled in, both dogs were easy going and playful. In fact, the shelter team reported at intake that nothing seemed to bother them, except being apart from each other. Archie often whined and cried at night until he saw or smelled his big sister nearby.

At Santa Barbara Humane, animals get another chance at finding a home to call their own and in the case of bonded pairs, it’s imperative the next adopter has room in their heart and home for two. It often takes longer to place senior dogs and to place bonded pairs, so it was not unexpected when Archie and Shorty spent longer than most dogs in the shelter. Continued donor support means that animals like Shorty and Archie can receive all the love and attention they need while they wait for a home to call their own.

When a local family came to visit, they immediately fell in love with the pair and felt it was meant to be. The adopters report that Shorty and Archie are “spoiled rotten” and “the perfect puppy dogs” in their home. They shared that the dogs enjoy several walks a day, playing in the dirt, and sleeping. Archie is adjusting well and all the neighbors are happy to have him around, and Shorty seems to be relieved to have some help in caretaking.

Now bonded with a new family, Archie and Shorty are one of the many success stories at Santa Barbara Humane made possible by generous donor-supported safety net programs.

Adopt online at sbhumane.org or call 805-964-4777

Santa Barbara Humane operates two campuses located in Santa Barbara and Santa Maria providing care for community-owned and homeless animals. Both campuses offer affordable high-quality veterinary care, compassionate behavior training programs, and a relinquishment program for owners who can no longer care for their pets. Homeless animals receive medical care, shelter, and basic behavior training until their adoption.