15 California Chihuahuas Arrive in NYC

On Wednesday, Virgin Airlines flew 15 Chihuahuas to New York City from San Francisco Animal Care and Control in search of new homes. According to the ASPCA, " over the past year, California shelters have seen a dramatic increase in Chihuahua intakes—this toy breed now makes up more than 30% of the state’s shelter dog population. While demand for Chihuahuas has declined in much of the Golden State, their popularity in New York City is as high as ever."

I was so impressed with this entire initiative and all of the people involved. Take a look at the ASPCA's video below.

If you'd like to adopt one of these guys, the dogs will be available for viewing at the ASPCA Adoption Center on Wednesday, January 13, between Noon and 7:00 P.M. Says the ASPCA: "Adoption fees will range from $75 to $200, and include all medical and behavioral treatments, vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery and a microchip."

For additional information, please visit ASPCA.org or call the Operation Chihuahua” hotline at (212) 876-7700, ext. 3210.

Lily Needs a Home...Now

I'm posting this for a good friend who is trying to place a dog as soon as possible. The dog's owner can no longer take care of her, and she will unfortunately have to be surrendered to a shelter in the next week.

Lily is a 10-year-old Golden Retriever mix. She's much smaller than a Golden, though, and is about 40 pounds. She's in very good shape, and she has many years ahead of her. Lily would do best in a home with no other dogs as she's a little bit "socially anxious," but she is perfectly fine with cats. She isn't aggressive around food at all. Here's some info from Lily's current caretaker:

"Lily has the sweet, affectionate Golden Retriever qualities...she leans in for loving pats and bonds strongly with her immediate family. Since she is an older dog, she is happy to spend the day indoors snoozing while you're at work (and I can honestly say, she has never chewed anything in the process. She's the least 'destructive' dog I have ever known!) While she loves walks, she does not need as much exercise as a younger dog."

Lily's main limitation is that she is simply anxious upon first meetings with other dogs. Lily has not spent time around children, so she'd be best in a home without them.

More from the woman trying to place her: "In my visit with her today, I am reminded what a sweet dog she is. She was so happy just to go for a brief car ride! Her face was just beaming the whole time. :) So I really do believe she's a good pup (though not a perfect one!). I'd be happy to talk with anyone who would like to hear more about her."

If you are interested in giving Lily a home or you know someone who would be, please email nina.e.carbone@gmail.com. Thank you so much!

Iams' Home 4 the Holidays Pet Adoption Drive

Iams started its Home 4 the Holidays pet adoption drive 10 years ago. Last year, they set a record with more than 1.2 million adoptions. This year, their goal is to find homes for 1.5 million animals. To find out more about adoptable pets, go to http://www.iams.com/iams/pet-adoption.html.

You can also vote for your favorite local shelter. Says Iams: "The participating shelter with the most votes at the end of the month will receive one month of free, dry pet food for dogs, cats or a combination of both. Each participating shelter is eligible to win once a year, but you may vote daily."

For more information, click here.

More Dogs Who Need Homes

I was forwarded an email blast by a friend the other day from Biscuits and Bath, and they're looking for homes for 17 puppies rescued from a kill shelter.

Azaela, one of the puppies at Biscuits & Bath who is currently in need of a home

If you're looking for a new pet, or you'd be interested in fostering one of the puppies, check out their site here: http://www.biscuitsandbath.com/adoptions.php

Certified Therapy Dog Video

I don't know how much you all know about therapy dogs, but I have heard some amazing stories. I've heard of them bringing people out of comas, helping autistic children to socialize, and more. Well, with this video, welcome to cheesytown. The Sarah McLachlan track is pretty intense, but I still loved it. Admittedly, the dog featured, Baxter, seems to be snoozing during much of his "work." But give him a break; he's 19 years old.

Anyway, take a look if you have time. And maybe keep some Kleenex nearby.