When Cinnamon the goat and Felix the dog arrived at the Wake County Animal Center (WCAC), staff immediately noticed something unusual — the two were completely inseparable. From the moment they stepped paw and hoof into the shelter, it was clear that their bond was unlike anything the team had ever seen.

A Friendship That Defied Expectations

The shelter’s first plan was to separate the pair at night, simply for safety. But Cinnamon and Felix quickly made it clear they had other ideas.

“Initially, we were going to separate them at night because there was no one in the shelter to monitor them,” said Dr. Jennifer Federico, DVM, Wake County government’s animal services director. “But they were not having that.”

If Cinnamon found herself apart from Felix, she would cry out — and sometimes even headbutt the kennel door in protest.

Always Side by Side

When their owner could no longer care for them, Wake County’s animal control officers stepped in. WCAC doesn’t usually take in farm animals, but after hearing that Cinnamon and Felix were bonded, they made an exception.

Their connection was undeniable. Staff noticed that whenever Felix was taken for a walk, Cinnamon would trot right along beside him — no leash required.

At night, they curled up together on the same cot. During the day, they could always be found side by side. Separation wasn’t an option for these two best friends.

Why It Worked

Goats and dogs might not seem like natural companions, but to Dr. Federico, their bond made sense.

“Goats are social animals and so are dogs, so when they’re put together, it makes sense they would find friendship,” she explained. “‘Whatever the reason for these two bonding, it’s clear what would be best for their well-being is to keep them together.’”

The Happy Ending They Deserved

WCAC knew they had to find a home that would honor both Cinnamon’s needs as a goat and her love for Felix. They partnered with The Mr. Mo Project, a New York–based rescue, to make that happen.

Soon enough, the perfect adopter appeared: a woman with a herd of goats and plenty of space for both animals. She even built a special pasture just for Cinnamon, allowing her time to transition before joining the rest of the herd — all while keeping Felix close by her side.

“All the pieces fell into place,” Dr. Federico said. “Their new mom has a herd of goats, and she has the space to take both Cinnamon and Felix.”

Together, Forever

Though it’s unclear if Cinnamon ever lived with other goats before, one thing is certain: her sense of safety has always been Felix.

“They’re such a unique pair, and they’re so sweet together,” Dr. Federico said. “This is just what they needed.”

Cinnamon may someday bond with her new goat companions — but as long as she has Felix, her best friend, she’ll always feel at home.