Our founder
Anne Preston, the founder of Chihuahua Rescue UK, devoted over fifty years to owning and caring for Chihuahuas before dedicating herself to rescue work. Her legacy continues with the support of six dedicated administrators who help keep the charity running. Following Anne’s passing last year, her husband Jeremy has stepped in as our patron. Together with Jeremy, we made the heartfelt decision to carry on the mission Anne had dedicated her life to.
Chihuahua Rescue UK was established to give Chihuahuas in desperate need a second chance at life. Our mission is to improve the lives of these small dogs, who, through no fault of their own, need rescue and care. Our foremost priority is to ensure that every Chihuahua receives the kindness, love, and respect they deserve while in our care and beyond.
We are committed to thorough home checks to ensure each Chihuahua is placed in a suitable environment. All dogs that pass through Chihuahua Rescue UK are neutered (except in exceptional circumstances), microchipped, vaccinated, and receive a clean bill of health from one of our approved veterinarians before moving on to their forever home.
If a Chihuahua in our care has a health issue, we always inform prospective adopters. Sometimes, a Chihuahua may enter “Long Term Foster” care, during which we cover all veterinary expenses for the dog’s lifetime.
Many people associate rescue with kennels or pounds, but Chihuahuas do not thrive in such environments. Their small size and sensitivity mean they often become overwhelmed, frightened, and withdrawn in such settings. Ideally, we would place each Chihuahua directly into a loving home, but sometimes, we do not have complete information about their backgrounds.
Many Chihuahuas arrive needing medical care, have behavioural issues, or may be emotionally distressed. Fostering provides the best solution for their recovery. While fostering can be challenging and emotionally taxing, our foster families are exceptional. They offer the love and understanding to help these dogs find their second chance.
Chihuahuas are highly intelligent, easily trainable, and incredibly loyal. Despite their small size, they make excellent watchdogs with keen hearing and alertness. Many Chihuahuas are content to be lap dogs, seeking proximity to their owners and displaying a big personality in a small frame.
They enjoy walks, playing with toys, and interacting with other dogs of similar size in their garden. However, Chihuahuas are not toys and are not rehomed to families with children under ten. Their unique needs and personalities deserve thoughtful and respectful consideration.
Above all, a Chihuahua is not a toy. For this reason, we do not place them with families with children under ten.