Maricopa County's two animal shelters are overflowing with Chihuahuas.
Altogether, the East and West Valley shelters have received 821 of the diminutive dogs in the last two months, about 230 more than the same time last year, according to a statement from Maricopa County Animal Care and Control spokeswoman Aprille Hollis.
"Nobody is certain why the Chihuahua phenomenon is occurring," Hollis stated. "It could be due to the media attention the little dog has received or perhaps the breed is being overbred."
As of this week, there are 84 Chihuahuas at the two shelters. Officials are encouraging people to come in and adopt them. From Friday to Sunday, the county has reduced the adoption fee for Chihuahuas to $36. The adoption fee covers spay/neuter surgery and a rabies vaccination and dog license if the dog is older than three months.
"If you have been thinking of adding to your family and think a Chihuahua may be for you, now is the time," according to Hollis.
The East Valley shelter is located at 2630 W. Eighth St. in Mesa. For more information, visit www.pets.maricopa.gov or call (602) 506-7387.
