Fresno’s animal shelters issued a call for dog adoptions — including 72 Chihuahuas rescued from one home — and you responded.

Sally Breyer, senior operations manager for the city’s animal shelter on Airways Boulevard, said the pet census is down to about 350 as of Wednesday. After their rescue, many of the Chihuahuas were transported out of the area to new homes, and the remaining ones are with local rescue organizations or have already found homes, Breyer told GV Wire on Wednesday.

“They went out pretty quickly, and we’re excited about that,” she said.

Recent news stories about how shelters had become swamped with Chihuhuas and other breeds brought a corresponding wave of assistance from rescue organizations “who stepped up to help us out,” Breyer said.

Hundreds of Animals in Shelters

But that leaves several hundred mostly dogs, some cats, and a couple of rabbits, in need of a home, Breyer said. Shelter staff believe the bunnies were someone’s pets because they are “very friendly,” she said.

Many of the dogs waiting for adoption are Alaskan huskies and German shepherds, Breyer said.

If you’re thinking of getting your family a pup for the Christmas holidays, make sure to think it through before coming to the shelter, she said.

“We try to tell people that pets are for life,” Breyer said.

Adoption Event on Saturday

To help find new homes for the animals at the shelter, the Fresno Humane Services has scheduled an event on Saturday: A Playgroup Rockstar Adoption Event from noon to 4 p.m. at Woodward Park. Adoption fees will be $25 with all dogs fully spayed, neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated.

The city of Fresno animal shelter is at 5277 E. Airways Blvd. Call or text 559-600-PETS  (7387)  for information. The Fresno County animal shelter is at 1510 W. Dan Ronquillo Drive in Fresno.

Tulare County Launches Dog Adoption Effort 

Tulare County Animal Services announced Wednesday that it is introducing Adventure Paws, a program in which you can take a shelter dog out for the day.

Participants must be at least 18 years old and have a reliable vehicle.

“Adventure Paws is a wonderful program,” said animal services coordinator Candace Harrington in a news release. “It allows for our shelter dogs to gain valuable interactions and in turn, allows for potential adopters to gain valued information and connections with our dogs.

“If you or your family is thinking about getting a dog for the holidays or for the new year, Adventure Paws is a great way to test the waters and enjoy an outing with one of our friendly shelter dogs.”

Adventure Paws dogs are available for pick up at Tulare County Animal Services, 14131 Ave. 256, in Visalia.

Further information is available at (559) 636-4050 and www.tcanimalservices.org.