More than 100 chihuahuas were recently rescued from an overwhelmed home by Socorro County Animal Control in New Mexico. The dogs were sent to local animal welfare organizations such as Animal Humane New Mexico, as well as Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah.
When Best Friends’ Dogtown Director Ali Waszmer got the call, she was already in New Mexico meeting with another shelter in the area. The Best Friends team was able to load up and transport the dogs back to Best Friends the next day, arriving at the Sanctuary at 11:30 p.m. “It was a super long day, and the dogs were stressed at first but after having some time to relax, everyone was pretty chill,” Waszmer said.
Best Friends took in 17 of the dogs, including one with significant medical issues, one senior, two moms with puppies and seven adults. Waszmer described the dogs as in fairly good condition, except for one that required more extensive medical care.
The chihuahuas spent a few days as the sanctuary, where they received veterinary checks and any necessary vaccines or medical care. “They had various levels of shyness, but were able to be handled pretty easily,” Waszmer said.
After going into local foster homes, the dogs began to show more personality. “They’re allowing more interaction with people. They are starting to not just accept getting petted, but they’re asking for more,” Waszmer said.
Fosters will help teach the dogs basic skills, such as house training, and get them ready for adoption. All adoptable pets, including the chihuahuas, can be previewed at bestfriends.org.
Partnering with shelters to help with animals that are the most at-risk is part of Best Friends Animal Society’s goal to make America no-kill in 2025. The community is another crucial key to making it happen. “Whether you’re a foster or an adopter, bringing a homeless pet into your home is the most impactful way to help,” Waszmer said.
For more information, visit bestfriends.org.
