Press Release

WHAT: On Wednesday, January 13, the ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) will put up for adoption Chihuahuas flown in last week from California. The dogs were transported to New York from the City of San Francisco Animal Care & Control on donated seats from Virgin America airlines. The dogs have completed their full behavioral and medical assessments and are now ready for adoption. A special hotline has been set up for potential adopters who may have inquiries: (212) 876-7700 ext. 3210.

WHY: The massive overpopulation of Chihuahuas in California is forcing animal shelters there to identify areas where there is a demand for these dogs. "In New York City there is high demand for small dogs, like Chihuahuas," says Gail Buchwald, Senior Vice President, ASPCA Adoptions Center. "We are glad to be given this opportunity to help meet demand for Chihuahuas in New York and at the same time help find loving homes for San Francisco's homeless animals."  

WHO: Gail Buchwald, Senior Vice President, ASPCA Adoptions Center
Arthur Hazlewood, Senior Director, ASPCA Adoptions Center
Diane Wilkerson, Director, ASPCA Volunteer Programs

WHEN: Wednesday, January 13 beginning at 12:00 p.m. (The dogs and spokespeople will be available to be on camera beginning at 9:30 a.m.)

**If you plan to cover, please RSVP to the ASPCA media contacts in advance. We are expecting a large turnout of potential adopters**

WHERE: ASPCA Adoptions Center
424 East 92nd Street (between First and York Avenues)
New York, NY

CONTACTS: Mark Knight at 917-675-0645 or markk@aspca.org / David Gautschy at 917-843-3533 or davidg@aspca.org / Rebecca McNeill at 917-628-9780 or rebeccam@aspca.org