Two adoptable dogs named after Los Angeles’ beloved baseball team were given the VIP treatment earlier this month when they went on an exclusive tour of Dodger Stadium.
The dogs, Dodger and Dodger Jr., are foster pets currently available for adoption through the Ventura County nonprofit Canine Adoption and Rescue League, or CARL.
Dodger is a senior chihuahua who has overcome several health challenges, the organization said. Dodger Jr., or Dodger Dog, is a 4-year-old pitbull that was recently rescued and has experienced its own set of health issues.
The two dogs and six volunteers from the animal welfare organization were invited by the Dodgers front office to spend an hour before first pitch “wandering the hallowed halls and sacred spaces above and on the field” at Dodger Stadium.
The dogs were given Dodgers jerseys and got to meet stadium employees and other visitors touring the ballpark grounds.
“Both doggies were so good, attentive and taking in all their surroundings and smells,” said Veronica Sanchez, a CARL volunteer and the 15-year-old chihuahua’s current foster.
While a fun experience for the dogs and their handlers and foster owners, the visit to Dodger Stadium served another purpose: finding the dogs their permanent homes.
Both Dodger dogs were abandoned by their owners earlier this year and were emaciated when they came to the animal rescue volunteers. They are currently being fostered in homes sponsored by CARL.
Sanchez says their stories are “a testament to the resilience of animals … and the transformative power of love and care that rescue organizations provide.”
Volunteers hope that the visit to Dodger Stadium will put the two adoptable dogs in the spotlight and help them find new homes, while also raising awareness about the important role of animal rescuers and volunteers.
For more information about the Canine Adoption and Rescue League, including adoption information and donation resources, click here. Volunteers from All For Love Animal Rescue were also in attendance.