Saint Bernard dogs adopted after gaining worldwide attention

EDMONTON (CityNews) – Three Saint Bernard dogs have now found their forever homes.

The trio – Gasket, Gunther and Goliath – have been up for adoption since Oct. 9, when the appeal by the Edmonton Humane Society went viral.

READ MORE: Big bonded buddies: Edmonton Humane Society seeks single home for 3 St. Bernards

Hundreds of families inquired about adopting the dogs from the Edmonton Humane Society (EHS) as their story gained international attention.

Tens of millions of people in over 40 countries followed the story and more than 200 inquiries were made from all around the world in just the first day.

The dogs suffer from anxiety when separated, so it was crucial they be adopted together.

The EHS said they have been adopted by a Calgary family and along with the family’s other dog, will have plenty of room to explore their one-acre fenced yard.

Feeding the pups costs more than $300 a month and they collectively weigh over 350 pounds.

Goliath, Gunther and Gasket were transferred to the society’s care from another animal welfare agency, so there isn’t much known about their early years.

They appear to be about two years old, but it’s not clear if they’re littermates.

The couple taking in the dogs do not want to be identified at this time as they adjust to the increased level of drool in the home.

But they are big proponents of adoption, as one of their two children (10 and 16) is adopted, as are a number of their previous pets.

“We are beyond excited to be giving these three dogs their forever home,” said the family, in a release sent out by the Edmonton Humane Society. “When we found out that we were getting the opportunity to meet them, we cried tears of joy. Pets add so much to the family, and we’re so happy we can give back to them by providing a loving home for the rest of their lives.”

Even though there was increased interest in adopting the animals, the EHS prioritized families from Alberta to minimize the amount of stress on the giant dogs.

In Calgary specifically, there is no limit on how many dogs can be owned, while other cities and towns have specific bylaws capping the number of dogs per home.

“The response to the story of these gentle giants, from the thousands who helped share our call for help to those who offered their homes to these dogs, was truly astounding,” said Jamey Blair, Manager of Animal Health & Protection in the release from the EHS.

“At the end of the day we could only choose one family for them, but there are thousands of other homeless pets who are all as deserving of a forever home. We hope this story inspires people to adopt from their local shelters and rescues.”

The Edmonton Humane Society is now hosting an adoption event hoping to get more of its animals adopted.

LISTEN: Interview with Jamey Blair, Manager of Animal Health and Protection regarding the adoption.