How to Rescue a Chihuahua

According to legend, the Aztec emperor Montezuma kept Chihuahuas as pets. Whether that’s true or not, this dog breed didn’t become known to the white man until the 1800s and the first Chihuahua wasn’t registered with the American Kennel Club until 1904. Today, although Chihuahuas are popular dogs, sometimes they need a new hope for one reason or another. This article tells you how to rescue and care for a Chihuahua and help in the ongoing effort to help these delightful little canines.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A love f dogs and desire to help them
• Knowledge of the care requirements for small dogs

1. Learn about Chihuahuas before you decide to adopt. The Chihuahua is the smallest of all dog breeds (ranging between 2 and 6 pounds) yet is the longest lived. On average a well-cared for dog will live 16-18 years. They are very loyal and protective and bond closely to their owners. They make wonderful companions, but their outgoing and sometimes overly assertive personalities mean they aren’t the right dog for everyone. You can find out more for the Chihuahua Club of America website (link below)

2. Recognize that “toy dogs” like Chihuahuas have to be handled differently than full size breeds. Unlike large dogs, Chihuahuas are ideal for apartment dwellers. However, they must depend on you for protection, not the other way around (especially since their protective instincts are apt to get them into trouble). You should always accompany the dog when you allow it outside--a Chihuahua is no match for even the average house cat. The key to proper general and health care (see step 3) is to educate yourself about the differences between Chihuahuas and other dog breeds.

3. Be prepared for the health problems Chihuahuas are likely to face. This breed actually has fewer health issues than most dogs, thanks to many years of good breeding practices. The Chihuahua’s small size means it has different health problems than full size dogs. For example, Chihuahuas have few fat reserves due to their small size, making them prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and this can be a chronic condition if they don’t get the energy they need from their diet. Other conditions to watch out for are heart murmurs, collapsing trachea, cystinuria (kidney or bladder stones), and superluxation of the patella (loose kneecaps)—all problems common in small dog breeds. A link below will take you to a Chihuahua website for further information.

4. Contact a local Chihuahua rescue group. One organization is Chihuahua Rescue USA, an all-volunteer group that provides adoption, transport, and educational services in the Midwestern United States. You can find a list of other local and regional breed rescue organizations through the Chihuahua Club of America. Links to both organizations are at the end of this article.

5. Put in an application to adopt a Chihuahua. In same cases, you will have to place your name on a waiting list since a dog may or may not be available right away. While you’re waiting, get a head start by buying a leash, dog bed, and other items you’ll need.

6. Rescue a Chihuahua by giving one a loving home. The actual adoption process is very similar to the one used by regular animal shelters. You will need to get a dog license if your city or county requires it and pay an adoption fee. Unless you plan to mate your Chihuahua, it’s recommended you have he animal spayed or neutered. This not only prevents unwanted puppies, it has health benefits as well, particularly a reduced risk of cancer.

7. Help others to rescue a Chihuahua. Like other animal rescue organizations, Chihuahua rescue groups depend on donations and volunteers to continue their work. You can aid in the effort to rescue Chihuahuas by giving money or time in support of these groups.

Resources

• Chihuahua Rescue USA
• Chihuahua Club of America
• Chihuahua Health

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on 8/25/2009 adopt, don't buy. 50% of some shelter dogs are euthanized