Meet a few of the rescued dogs, some little chihuahuas with great big hearts...
By Aubree Severin, Best Friends Volunteer
Best Friends has taken part in another puppy mill rescue! Over 175 dogs and puppies were rescued from a commercial breeder in Virginia and transported to Pets Alive in Middletown, New York. Included in the rescue were several chihuahuas. Chihuahuas are classified as "toy breeds" and are the smallest breed of dog in the world.
Chihuahuas can weigh up to 9 pounds or more. They can be smoothcoats or longcoats, both of which can be found at Pets Alive. Their coats can be a variety of shades, including brindle, blonde, black, brown, fawn, blue, and "splashed." Another distinctive physical feature of the chihuahua is their ears, which they use to express a variety of responses and emotions.
Chihuahuas are graceful, gentle and energetic. They are extremely loyal, getting attached to one or two persons. These tiny dogs also appear to be unaware of their diminutive stature, often barking at strangers and other dogs much larger than themselves. Chihuahuas need a great deal of human contact including touching, petting, and general attention. However, these dogs will generously return the love and affection. They do well with others of their own breed and this may help to alleviate their stress when you’re out.
Chihuahuas are a good breed for city-dwellers, as well for single people, the elderly, and the handicapped; however, they are not the ideal dog for a house with small children. Because chihuahuas are so tiny, they can easily be stepped on or handled too roughly by well-meaning kids.
Pets Alive has welcomed this Chihuahua mom and her pups, all of which need permanent, loving homes!
Squeaky is a white Chi female who has stolen everyone's hearts because she's so happy all the time. When you walk down the kennel aisle, she gets really happy and wiggly. She is a total cuddler. And she really does have a squeaky bark!
Meet Ashley she's one of the merle Chihuahuas here at Pets Alive. Little Ashley is very sweet and a little submissive. She is about 3 years old (we guess), a chocolate merle Chihuahua, weighs 6 pounds, and has obviously had litters of pups in her past.
Here's Cinnabun, a VERY sweet, female longcoat Chi.
HOW YOU CAN HELPIf you are interested in adopting a chihuahua or a chihuahua mix, please
visit Petfinder.org, where you'll find hundreds of these dogs who need a second chance.
DONATENow that these dogs and puppies are in our care, we want to give them the best life we can. They deserve nothing less. Your donations are deeply appreciated.
NOT A NETWORK MEMBER?Join the Best Friends Network - the largest grassroots online community for pet lovers -- IT'S FREE. We'll keep you updated on this campaign and let you know how you can make a difference to animals in your neighborhood and around the world. Plus, you can connect with other people who care about animals.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NETWORK.
LEARN MORE ABOUT PUPPY MILLSPuppy Mill Frequently Asked QuestionsCommon statistics and general information about puppy mills.
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photos by Clay Myers