Chihuahuas currently make up 30 percent or more of the shelter pet population of California, according to a recent Today Show report.Megan Webb, Director of Oakland Animal Services in Oakland, CA, shared that they sometimes receive ten new Chihuahuas per day.
The reason? NBC reporter, George Lewis, notes recent movies, such as
Beverly Hills Chihuahua and the appearance of the small breed with
stars, such as Paris Hilton and Britney Spears, may have added to the
initial demand for these dogs.
Whatever the reason, area shelters and rescues are considering their options for handling the influx of the breed. The Today Show reports that some shelters, built for larger-breed dogs, are remodeling to better accommodate Chihuahua housing and adoptions.
Other rescues are considering adopting out dogs to areas with a high-demand for the tiny breed -- the increased Chihuahua relinquishment rates seem to affect California shelters only. However, with increased transport come increased costs -- something Webb marks as the largest challenge.
Oakland Animal Services has already transferred about 100 Chihuahuas to Washington, Oregon and Arizona. "As soon as they get them, they are ready for new ones," stated Webb.
To view Chihuahuas available for adoption in California do a search by breed and location in our standard search bar on the top left side of most Petfinder pages.
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Whatever the reason, area shelters and rescues are considering their options for handling the influx of the breed. The Today Show reports that some shelters, built for larger-breed dogs, are remodeling to better accommodate Chihuahua housing and adoptions.
Other rescues are considering adopting out dogs to areas with a high-demand for the tiny breed -- the increased Chihuahua relinquishment rates seem to affect California shelters only. However, with increased transport come increased costs -- something Webb marks as the largest challenge.
Oakland Animal Services has already transferred about 100 Chihuahuas to Washington, Oregon and Arizona. "As soon as they get them, they are ready for new ones," stated Webb.
To view Chihuahuas available for adoption in California do a search by breed and location in our standard search bar on the top left side of most Petfinder pages.
You might also like:
Happy Tail: Shelter life was all he knew until a road trip changed everything
Preparing Your Home For A New Dog
Tips for Finding a Pet Online
Why Are Pets Relinquished to Shelters?
