DOGS ADOPTED AFTER OWNER DIES

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - They are man's best friends, and you could also say they are each other's best friend. Two dogs who depend on each other will stay together after their owner died.

Linky, a chihuahua, and Dillon, a dachshund, were left without a home this weekend, when their owner, 77-year-old Joseph Derrick died in a crash on Timuquana Road Saturday night. Investigators said Derrick was walking his pets when a car hit him while he crossed the road.

The 10-year-old dogs were then taken to animal control, where workers tried to find a new home for them. Now, that mission is complete.

"They just needed help," said Jody Kinney. "They need a hand and I can do it." Kinney had heard about the dogs' plight, and decided to help. Animal control officers didn't want to separate the dogs, who depend on each other. Linky is losing his eyesight, and he depends on Dillon for help.

"They're bonded so well," said Scott Trebatoski of Animal Care and Control. "If you see them walk, they walk next to each other. I am sure they sleep in the same bed. They're so well bonded that I think you'd have separation anxiety and all kinds of stress.

When Kinney picked up the dogs, she said they are still a little nervous around her. "They're scared. But they come around. Animals come around. They just need love and attention," said the dogs' new owner. Derrick had been the only owner the dogs had known, until now. "I noticed a cry go out for them to be helped, because their owner had passed, and it's a good thing to step up to the plate and help a little," said Kinney.

Those at Animal Care and Control say they're happy both dogs will be able to stay together. "The silver lining is for them both to be going to another loving home," said Trebatoski. "So they aren't missing their owner as much."

Kinney said her family is aware their new dogs will need special care, and said they are ready to provide it for them.