The shelter currently caring for Chewy the Chihuahua has received numerous applications for his adoption

Puppy Abandoned in Airport Bathroom with Devastating Note Because There Was 'No Other Option'

A recent discovery in a McCarran Airport bathroom is bringing to light the tragic ways domestic violence affects pets.

According to NEWS3LV, a 3-month-old puppy was found abandoned in one of the Las Vegas airport’s bathrooms over the weekend. A handwritten note was left behind with the pup, which contained the devastating reason the tiny Chihuahua was abandoned.

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“Hi! I’m Chewy! My owner was in an abusive relationship and couldn’t afford me to get on the flight,” reads the heartbreaking confession. “She didn’t want to leave me with all her heart, but she has no other option. My ex-boyfriend kicked my dog when we were fighting and he has a big knot on his head. He probably needs a vet. I love Chewy sooo much – please love and take care of him.”

Image zoom Nathan O'Neal/KSNV

Chewy was found by a traveler shortly after his owner was forced to flee. The small pup was safely transported to a local dog rescue called Connor & Millie’s Dog Rescue.

The shelter is keeping Chewy’s rapidly growing fanbase updated on his journey through Facebook.

“There has been tremendous interest in little Chewy!!! We are compiling all the interest forms and will be going through them all. CMDR would like to say thank you for all the offers of a loving home,” the rescue wrote in a recent post. “However, there is but 1 Chewy and he can go but to 1 home. Please consider the hundreds if not thousands of ‘Chewys’ loaded with love that are desperately seeking homes in shelters which are at max capacity, rescues are full!”

The number of applications to adopt Chewy, a local news superstar, are so numerous that the shelter has put a hold on any more applications, but is continuing to encourage those interested in Chewy to adopt another adorable shelter pet, who is just as needy as he is.

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While the note the Chihuahua was left with mentions a possible injury, Chewy appears to be healthy and happy.

Unfortunately, the circumstances that led to him being left in an airport bathroom are not unique. Countless pet owners struggle in abusive relationships. When they do make the brave decision to leave this toxic environment, these animal lovers are often left scrambling to find a home for their pets because most shelters for abuse victims do not allow animals.

It is for this reason that Staci Columbo Alonso started Noah’s Animal Rescue, a full service boarding facility on the grounds of the largest women and children’s shelter in Nevada that holds and cares for the pets of abuse victims until they are in a place where they can care for their animals again.

“The animal is equally a member [of] the family as anyone else and it’s vital that when you’re leaving a domestic violence situation that your pet can come with you,” Lori Nelson, a spokesperson for Noah’s Animal Rescue, told NEWS3LV.

Nelson and Connor & Millie’s Dog Rescue hope the impressive amount of outreach Chewy’s sad circumstances has garnered shows others that there are always options when it comes to keeping your pet in your life without putting yourself or them in danger.