UPDATE: A remarkable surge in dachshund adoptions is transforming lives at Jacksonville’s Animal Care and Protective Services (ACPS), driven by an influx of over 70 dachshunds and a viral TikTok video. The shelter is promoting free adoptions to help these adorable dogs find loving homes immediately.
This week, ACPS welcomed 16 dachshunds who are quickly becoming the center of attention. The sudden arrival follows a call from a overwhelmed breeder, leading to a swift response by ACPS officers. Chief Michael Bricker revealed that the situation arose from a breeding arrangement that exceeded the breeder’s capacity, prompting ACPS to step in. The immediate impact was staggering, with approximately 10 dachshunds adopted within hours and another six placed with rescue organizations.
A key player in this heartwarming turn of events is local TikTok creator Bethany Michel. Her recent video showcasing the newly arrived dachshunds went viral, racking up over 1 million views. Michel, who has been an advocate for ACPS’s “Dog Day Out” program, stated, “I made that video just to spread awareness… Never in a million years did I expect to get a million and a half views.” Her efforts have significantly raised public interest in the shelter’s animals.
As a result of this increased visibility, ACPS recently posted a sign informing the public that all current dachshunds have been adopted. Yet, Bricker emphasizes that the shelter has around 300 other dogs also in need of homes. The viral attention has accelerated adoptions across the board, assisting an additional 20 to 25 dogs that might have otherwise remained at the shelter for much longer.
Looking ahead, ACPS expects another 30 dachshunds to arrive as early as next week, with possible additional groups following shortly after. To keep the community updated, ACPS is actively utilizing their social media platforms, especially Facebook, to announce upcoming dachshund availability. This is also the primary channel for the public to stay informed about new arrivals.
In addition to this dachshund-focused initiative, ACPS is running a free adoption campaign throughout the month, aimed at clearing the shelter and finding homes for as many animals as possible. This weekend, adoptable dogs will be featured at the Jacksonville Jaguars game during their “tailgate” event, providing an exciting opportunity for families to connect with potential furry companions.
The swift adoption of dachshunds at ACPS highlights the profound impact of social media on animal welfare initiatives. This inspiring story not only showcases the power of community engagement but also emphasizes the urgent need for animal adoption.
Stay tuned for more updates on the arrival of new dachshunds and don’t miss your chance to find a new furry friend!
