Following the tragic passing of actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, the couple’s two surviving dogs have found new homes. According to a spokesperson for the estate and confirmed by Joey Padilla—the owner of Santa Fe Tails dog daycare—the German shepherd Bear and the Akita-shepherd mix Nikita have been rehomed.

Padilla explained that one of the dogs has been relocated to a home outside the state, while the other remains local. “It is with great joy that, with the consent of the estate attorney, my team at Santa Fe Tails and I have successfully placed the Hackmans’ surviving dogs in caring homes,” he said. “We took great care to find the best possible environment for them, and they are already settling into their new lives.”

The couple, aged 95 and 65 respectively, were discovered by maintenance workers at their New Mexico residence on February 26, having passed away several days earlier. The medical examiner reported that Hackman died of heart disease, with advanced Alzheimer’s disease contributing to his condition, while Arakawa’s death was attributed to hantavirus—although some discrepancies about her date of death have emerged.

Tragically, the couple’s third dog, Zinna—an Australian kelpie mix—was found deceased in a locked crate, having suffered from dehydration and starvation. When Padilla arrived at the scene, he recalled the distressing environment and the chaos that had unfolded, with Nikita visibly frightened and running around the property. Notably, it was Bear and Nikita who had wandered around for several days before help arrived and even guided first responders to Hackman’s body.

A representative for the estates later told People that both Bear and Nikita are now safe and healthy in their new homes. Padilla also expressed gratitude for the public’s concern over the dogs, emphasizing that Gene and Betsy Hackman had an immense love for their pets and would have done anything for them.

This compassionate rehoming effort underscores the ongoing commitment to ensuring that even in the wake of profound loss, the cherished animals continue to receive the care and love they deserve.