Life can indeed be challenging at times, and often, all we need to persevere is a loyal friend ready to lend a hand or a paw. This is particularly true for the animals waiting in shelters. Despite the efforts of the staff to make their environment comfortable, what these animals crave the most is companionship.
Fortunately, in a shelter in Boston, Massachusetts, two pups named Karma and Gigi found each other and promised to have each other’s backs no matter the circumstances. Initially, although they were rescued together from the same home before arriving at the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL), Gigi and Karma were not as close as one might assume. Most of the time, they kept to themselves.
To New Beginnings

When a staff member observed one of the dogs struggling to adapt to the loud, chaotic shelter environment, they realized immediate action was needed. “For Karma, it was a very difficult beginning. ARL’s shelter staff decided to place the two in the same kennel, and almost immediately, Gigi was able to calm Karma down. From there, their bond formed rapidly!” said Mike DeFina, ARL’s media relations manager, in an interview with The Dodo. It wasn’t long before they became inseparable, despite their contrasting personalities.
Two Peas In A Pod
Gigi loves attention. Upon seeing someone new, she eagerly runs over to greet them, which in turn helps to boost Karma’s confidence as she meets new friends. “Side by side, they’re comical and, in many ways, perfectly balanced. Karma is sweet but her fearfulness keeps her from immediately embracing new experiences. Once she warms up, she shows just how affectionate she can be,” DeFina added.

Over time, Karma and Gigi developed a deep, unbreakable bond as they spent more time together, each loving the other’s quirks and refusing to do anything alone. Their goal became finding a warm, loving home. Despite the challenges of finding a family willing to adopt two dogs together, the caring staff at ARL kept their hopes alive.

Good Things Come To Those Who Wait
In a matter of days, a couple visiting the shelter who had recently lost their own beloved pets found Karma and Gigi and instantly recognized them as the perfect fit for their family. They promptly filed for adoption, which the shelter approved without delay. “Karma and Gigi’s dream home was one where they could enjoy a quiet atmosphere, allowing them space to flourish. A commitment to adopting two animals is considerable, and we are incredibly grateful that they found such a perfect match!” DeFina commented.

Two weeks after their adoption, the puppies were ecstatic to celebrate the holidays in the warmth of a loving family. Despite the significant change, they remained as inseparable as before. “They are gentle with each other; after a fun playtime, you can always find them curled up together for a nap. Their dependence on one another and the strength of their bond is remarkable!” DeFina shared.

Seeing how well-loved and cared for the pups were filled the ARL staff with joy. Not only did this adorable duo secure a warm home, but they also remained together. Their long and arduous journey made this moment all the more precious. “Working with animals every day is rewarding, yet witnessing the strength of Karma and Gigi’s bond is truly inspiring. We are ecstatic that they are starting their next chapter together and flourishing in their new environment,” DeFina concluded.