'I hope they go together!'

As the adoption room coordinator at Have a Heart Humane Society, I hear this phrase almost every single day: “I hope they go together!” It’s a sweet sentiment, for sure, and it’s one we humans understand so well. After all, if you were plucked out of your comfy home and sent off into the great unknown, wouldn’t you want your sibling tagging along?

But here’s the thing: dogs aren’t people. (Shocking revelation, right?) While our furry friends certainly form bonds and have feelings, they don’t experience family dynamics quite the way we do. And when it comes to siblings, especially littermates, sticking together can sometimes create more challenges than happy endings. Enter a phenomenon called “littermate syndrome.”

Littermate syndrome is what happens when two pups from the same litter grow up together and become a little too attached. Instead of developing into confident, well-adjusted individuals, they’ll rely on each other for everything – comfort, play, security – and often struggle to connect with humans or other dogs. It can lead to anxiety, behavioral issues (such as fighting), and a tough road ahead for the adopters.

Now, don’t get me wrong. We’re not saying it’s impossible to adopt siblings successfully, but it takes extra effort, training and sometimes more patience than you thought you had. For most families, adopting one pup at a time lets each dog grow into their own, learn the ropes of being a cherished pet and build that all-important bond with their humans.

So, next time you’re wandering through our adoption center and see two adorable siblings romping together, remember that the best gift you can give them might just be separate, loving homes. It’s not a breakup – it’s a chance for each pup to shine! After all, the ultimate goal is their happiness, right? And trust me, seeing those tails wagging in their new lives is a sight that’ll warm your heart every single time.

Have a Heart Humane Society wants to make Tehachapi the first no-kill community in Kern County. Spaying and neutering pets helps stop them from getting out and running the streets, and it’s the only way to stop the mass killing of pets in Kern County.

If you’re interested in donating or want to help our foster pets, email us at [email protected].

Have a Heart Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) so all donations are fully tax deductible.

Visit us online: http://www.haveahearthumanesociety.org/.

Meet some of our adoptable animals at Rescued Treasures thrift store, 787 W. Tehachapi Blvd. (661) 822-5683.