Mervin the Chihuahua is way more than just a silly face. While his lopsided smile has captured the heart of thousands, his adoption story is what really matters. Mervin is using his Instagram fame to spread the word about adoption and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).
It all started with his owner, Joey Teixieira. Teixieira works at the ASPCA as the senior manager of planned giving. He’s always been an advocate for animal adoption, which he clearly showed through the rescue of Mervin.
“Once he got into a loving home, he was able to really come out of his shell and become his true self,” Teixeira said to NBC.
When he was first brought to the shelter, Mervin was starving, missing teeth, and in desperate need of care. After being treated by the lovely people at the ASPCA, Mervin found his forever home with Teixeira.
Now, fast forward three years, and Mervin is an Instagram star. He has almost 70k followers, who he interacts with almost daily. By sharing his story with the public, he and Teixeira are helping to raise awareness for shelter dogs everywhere.
“When you adopt, you’re not only gaining a new family member, but you’re also saving a life,” said Teixeira.
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