Posted: October 6, 2008, 5 a.m. EDT
The Chihuahuas are out in movie theaters, and the American Kennel Club is urging potential dog owners not to get star struck.
With the release of “Beverly Hills Chihuahua” the AKC reminds moviegoers about the importance of making careful, educated decisions when adding a dog to their home. The new film follows the story of “Chloe,” a pampered Chihuahua from Beverly Hills, Calif., who finds herself lost in Mexico. Alone for the first time, Chloe must rely on new friends to lend her a paw and help her to find her way back home.
The AKC and the Chihuahua Club of America would like to lend moviegoers a paw in finding a breed that suits their lifestyle. The groups advise people to research a breed when buying or adopting a puppy and to only buy from reputable breeders.
“Chihuahuas are very delicate as puppies, and can be inadvertently injured by being dropped, stepped on, or having a small item fall on them,” said Bruce Shirky, Chihuahua Club of America president. “For this reason, we recommend that families with very small children perhaps consider a larger breed. The Chihuahua Club of America hopes that anyone who becomes interested in owning a Chihuahua as a result of seeing this movie will educate themselves on responsible dog ownership and all that it entails.”
People who see the film may think about owning a dog like “Chloe,” said Lisa Peterson, AKC spokeswoman. “Chihuahuas are also known for longevity – so remember, before you add a new member to your family, dog ownership can be a 15- to 20-year commitment for the life of your dog.”