Animal Shelters Overrun With Chihuahuas And Teacup Breeds

Rarely leaving home without a tiny pup tucked into their purses, Paris Hilton, Kim Kardashian and Nicole Ritchie helped spearhead the chihuahua and teacup breed trend. But now, a much grimmer reality has taken shape among these pint-size dogs--animal shelters across the country are overrun with them, MyFoxPhilly.com reports.

Wayne Pacelle, president of the Humane Society, attributes the increase in homeless "handbag pups" to what he calls, "faddism," he told the network. A-list celebrities tout these breeds around the streets of L.A. A surplus of movie characters constantly keep these pooches by their sides.

These glamorous dog owners, according to Pacelle, have inspired people to run out to get their very own little pup, only to realize, soon after, that they weren't quite ready for the commitment.

"People just need to be thoughtful about getting an animal," Pacelle said. "It's not a table or a lamp or a chair."

"Handbag Pups" Overwhelm Animal Shelters: MyFoxPHILLY.com

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