PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — An 8-month-old Chihuahua named Chico is recovering at the SPCA Tampa Bay after fracturing both of his legs.
Officials say Chico's previous owners brought him to the shelter around Christmas. They surrendered him after learning the cost to fix his injuries and the time it would take.
More than three months later, Chico is no longer wearing casts and is finally getting to do some physical therapy.
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Chico's foster parent, SPCA Tampa Bay CEO Martha Boden, says it has taken a lot of work and time but they have been able to meet his needs and get him healthy.
Boden says having foster parents is essential as an animal in a shelter who needs specialized care is hard on both the animal and the staff.
"There are dogs, like Chico, and cats that need this kind of help all the time at SPCA of Tampa Bay and shelters all around the community," says Boden. "I would encourage anyone who has a spot in their home and heart for a temporary visitor, like Chico, to give it a try. It can be incredibly rewarding."
To become a foster parent at the SPCA Tampa Bay you must be a Pinellas County resident and be prepared to foster an animal up to 3 to 4 months. Learn more about the process by clicking here.
You can also follow Chico's journey by following the SPCA Tampa Bay on Instagram.
