September 5, 2008

Adopt a chihuahua

Humane Society Silicon Valley (HSSV) is urging people who want to buy a Chihuahua after seeing the movie “Beverly Hills Chihuahua” to consider adopting a Chihuahua from a shelter or rescue group instead of purchasing one from a breeder or pet store. The movie is expected to hit theaters on Oct. 3, 2008.

“There are so many wonderful Chihuahuas in shelters and rescue groups that need loving homes,” says Beth Ward, vice president of Animal and Customer Care for HSSV.

Chihuahuas have become more popular in recent years as more celebrities like Britney Spears and Paris Hilton have been photographed toting their tiny Chihuahuas about town. But the popularity has a down side.

“Chihuahuas have become the new throw-away pet,” Ward explains. “South Bay animal shelters are experiencing a Chihuahua explosion.” Between July 2007 and July 2008, Ward says Chihuahua mixes comprised 28 percent of the 2,000 plus dogs entering the Humane Society Silicon Valley than any other breed. Humane Society Silicon Valley has approximately 20 Chihuahua mixes at any one time available for adoption.

Ward says HSSV’s Adoption Counselors are great at matching potential families with the right pet to suit their lifestyle. “Because we have so many Chihuahuas and Chihuahua mixes, our staff has become experts at understanding the breed,” Ward explains. To view animals available for adoption, visit: http://www.hssv.org/adoption.html.

Why are so many Chihuahuas ending up at animal shelters? Ward says “moving” remains the primary reason people surrender Chihuahuas. “Some people start to think of their Chihuahuas as babies and carry them around wherever they go. They just expect that everyone else, including their landlords, will let them have a pet. Unfortunately, many landlords still do not allow renters to have pets and the dogs end up at shelters,” Ward explains.

While Chihuahuas are often stereotyped as high-strung, Ward says with correct training and socialization, Chihuahuas can be well-adjusted companion animals. Chihuahuas are prized for their devotion, ferocity, and personality. They can be quite affectionate with their owners and are easily adaptable to a variety of environments, including the city and small apartments.