When my wife’s nephew sadly passed away in late April, his two beloved dogs were left behind. With no one in the family able or willing to take them in, my wife and I knew what we had to do. Already proud pet parents to a clowder of cats, we decided to open our hearts — and our home — to two new canine companions.
Adjusting Our Home for a Blended Pet Family
Bringing dogs into a cat-dominated household isn’t a decision we made lightly. To ensure a smooth transition for everyone, we made several adjustments:
- Replaced the back gate to secure the yard.
- Installed a child gate at the bottom of the stairs, giving our cats a dog-free escape zone.
- Prepared the house for potential dog-cat interactions, ensuring both comfort and safety.
Meeting Our New Family Members
At the end of June, we drove to pick up the dogs. One of them, a 10-year-old blue heeler/rat terrier mix with a history of seizures, warmed up to both of us quickly. Calm and affectionate, he fit right into our routine with little fuss.
The second dog, a 7-year-old rat terrier mix, chose me as her human almost instantly. Before we even made it home, she had claimed my lap — and my heart. Since then, she’s been my shadow, following me around the house and sleeping by my side.
A Tribute, A New Beginning
This journey wasn’t just about adopting rescue dogs — it was about honoring a family member’s memory and continuing the love he gave to his pets. Integrating them into our cat-filled home has had its challenges, but the reward has been immeasurable.
Why We Believe in Adoption
Taking in senior dogs — especially those with health conditions — may not be for everyone, but for us, it’s been a deeply meaningful decision. These dogs needed love, stability, and a second chance. And in return, they’ve filled our home with even more joy and companionship.
