Some happy endings are worth revisiting. Earlier this year, two rescue dogs at River North’s Anti-Cruelty became a reminder that a new beginning does not have to mean leaving a best friend behind.

The dogs, Bird and Dee, had been rescued near a Chicago rail line. At the shelter, they were almost always together. Their story drew attention because the goal was not simply to find each animal a home: it was to find a home that would welcome both.

The ending neighbors hoped for

In its May 7 report, ABC7 described the dogs as a bonded pair who stayed close in their shared kennel. The next day brought the update people wanted. ABC7 confirmed on May 8 that a family of four had adopted them together the previous evening.

Anti-Cruelty said the outcome was emotional for the staff and volunteers who had cared for the pair. The important fact is simple: the dogs left together. This is a look back at a confirmed adoption, not a notice that Bird and Dee are still available.

A neighborhood place for second chances

The local connection is close to home. Anti-Cruelty’s official location information places its downtown adoption center at 510 N. LaSalle Drive, at Grand and LaSalle, in River North. The organization welcomes visitors without an appointment.

For people who regularly pass that intersection, the shelter can become part of the background of daily life. Bird and Dee’s story is a reason to think about the work taking place behind those doors—and about the different ways neighbors can participate.

If their story makes you consider adoption

Start with the shelter’s current adoption FAQ and available-animal listings. The organization describes an adoption consultation intended to match an animal with a household’s lifestyle. Its adoption package includes veterinary services and support resources, with specific details provided by the shelter.

Think through your schedule, housing rules, daily care and long-term budget before visiting. A compelling photograph is a reason to learn more, rather than a substitute for understanding an animal’s needs. If you rent, confirm that your lease and building rules allow the pet you are considering.

Not every household can adopt right now. You can still explore the organization’s official fostering, volunteering and donation information to find a role that fits. Avoid assuming that a particular animal, fee promotion or opening time remains current because it appeared in an older news story.

Watch the original report

Watch NBC Chicago’s report, “Unlikely bonded dogs thriving in new home,” on YouTube for a look at the dogs’ life after adoption. This video is from May 2026.

Join the conversation: Has a rescue pet changed your life? Share your own adoption story, or tell us how you support animals in the neighborhood.

Retrospective: adoption reported May 8, 2026. Shelter information checked October 28, 2026. Photo source: ABC7/WLS adoption report.