National Geographic Kids Chapters: Together Forever: True Stories of Amazing Animal Friendships!. Mary Quattlebaum

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      (photo credit 2.1)

      Chihuahuas are named for the state of Chihuahua in Mexico. A few of these dogs were found there, close to some ruins, in the 1850s. The little dogs may have an even earlier history, though. Carvings and artwork that are more than 1,000 years old show a larger Chihuahua-like dog called a Techichi (shown below). These dogs seemed important to the ancient Toltec and Aztec people of Central America. Some lived in temples and were buried in graves. Perhaps they were part of religious ceremonies.

       Did You Know?

      There are two kinds of Chihuahuas: short-haired and long-haired. Roo is the long-haired variety.

      And when Roo hurt his leg and needed surgery, Penny refused to leave him. She sat quietly by his bed until he recovered.

      This is how Alicia explains the bond between Penny and Roo: “I think they were both little throw-away orphans in need of comfort and companionship, and they found that in one another.”

      Most of the other animals at Alicia’s house ignore the two buddies—except for a pit bull named Lucy. She wants to take care of them. Lucy follows them around and bathes them with her tongue. Lick, lick, lick.

      At 70 pounds (32 kg), Lucy is 14 times larger than Roo, but she always plays gently with him. She likes to poke and nuzzle. He likes to pounce and tug. Chihuahuas may be small, but they are definitely spunky!

       Did You Know?

      Chihuahuas shiver when they are cold, excited, or frightened. A dog sweater can help keep them warm.

      Penny is part of the fun, too. She enjoys perching on Lucy’s back. She gets a nice ride that way.

      And Lucy never jumps or tries to knock Penny off. The big dog acts like a gentle mother to these two unique babies.

      When they are working at the hospital, Penny and Roo stay in the reception area. “This is their domain,” said Alicia. They greet animal patients, nap, and play with owners, their children, and sometimes the patients.

      Yip, yip, yip, calls Roo in his squeaky voice. He’s a noisy little rascal and likes to grunt, bark, and growl playfully.

      Penny is quieter and makes a variety of chirps. When Penny seems restless and starts poking into corners and at the pet beds, Alicia knows what’s going on.