Former reality star Kate Gosselin is opening up about the emotional challenges of bringing a rescue dog into her home.
The former “Jon & Kate Plus 8” star took to TikTok on May 26 to share a candid update about Koda, the adopted rescue dog she recently welcomed into her family.
In the emotional video, Gosselin revealed that the adjustment process has been far more exhausting than she anticipated.
Gosselin Bravely Shares the Update With Fans
Now on day 12 of integrating Koda into her home alongside her longtime German shepherd, Meika, Gosselin admitted she has been struggling to keep up with the demands of caring for both dogs.
“I was just crying this morning,” Gosselin confessed in the clip. “I’m tired. It’s getting to be a lot, which makes me sound like a baby, but the truth is, I’ve just been on watch constantly hoping nothing, you know, happens and watching them all the time.”
The foment “Dancing with the Stars” contestant explained that juggling the schedules, personalities and energy levels of two dogs has unexpectedly reminded her of raising her eight children.
“I am 51 now. I’m not 29, 30,” she added. “So it’s just gotten to be a lot.”
Fans quickly rallied around Gosselin in the comments section, offering support and reassurance as she navigates the difficult transition.
Fans Share Their Support
“And it’s OK if your home isn’t Kodas forever home. The greatest gift is possibly recognizing that. Hang in there Kate,” one person wrote.
Another supporter praised Gosselin for being transparent about the realities of pet adoption.
“You aren’t being a baby you are being transparent, and the reality of rescuing dogs and adopting a dog is that it is hard. people need to know the truth when they go to rescue a dog that it is not going to be easy. YOU Are actually doing great thank you for your honesty and thank you for sharing this journey with us.”
Gosselin personally responded to the encouraging comment, writing, “Aww thank you. You’re actually right… it is difficult and takes A LOT of perseverance!”
Others chimed in with advice and encouragement based on their own experiences with high-energy breeds.
“It is exhausting. I have a therapy type breed and she was so much work. The smarter they are the more work they are. Working dogs need a job to do. Play the long game and get some help,” one commenter shared.
Another added, “3 days 3 weeks and 3 months.. just like babies it will get easier.. hugs Kate it will pass.. bless you.”
Gosselin Often Shares Moments With Her Pets
Gosselin first introduced followers to Koda in April after securing adoption papers for the dog, who was previously named Chiqis.
She revealed at the time that she and boyfriend Steve Neild planned to bring the pup home in mid-May.
In her recent update, Gosselin described Koda as energetic and full of personality.
“Koda is a humongous personality,” she said. “She is now very obsessed with her ball, equally as Meika, and she could run forever. So, we’re seeing the humongous energy of a malamute now, and I’m really starting to doubt myself.”
To help keep the dogs calm while adjusting, Gosselin shared some of her daily routines.
“Steve went to work, and so I’m with them today,” she explained. “And I always turn on Bob Ross painting when we’re on the TV, when we’re together. So I try to keep them calm, and I take them on walks.”
The update comes just months after Gosselin mourned the loss of her beloved German shepherd, Nanuq, in December, making Koda’s transition into the family all the more meaningful.
