A long-term shelter resident in Austin, Texas, has captured hearts both on and off the stage. Tajin, a charming dog awaiting adoption, has found himself in the spotlight as part of a community theater production of “Legally Blonde.”
Tajin’s journey to this unexpected fame began on August 12, 2021, when animal protection officers rescued him from a yard where he had been tied up without food or water. Since then, he has been residing at the Austin Animal Center, patiently waiting for a forever home.
Despite his prolonged stay at the shelter, Tajin’s vibrant personality has made him a favorite among staff and volunteers. He has also spent time in foster homes, initially with a group of University of Texas students and currently with foster carer Erin Pettus.
While still searching for a permanent home, Tajin has been basking in the limelight. “Zilker Theater Productions has been incredibly generous to reach out to Austin Animal Center to use adoptable dogs in their live show,” Pettus told Newsweek. “They have been so supportive and willing to work not only with Tajin when he’s on stage, but also helping to promote quite a few of our other long-stay dogs before the show and at intermission.”
Tajin’s on-stage presence has not only been endearing but also instrumental in raising awareness about rescue dogs in the area. “It’s been wonderful not only for the promotion that Tajin gets, but with the community connections we have made. ZTP has opened up a new audience to fostering and adopting from their local shelter. Plus, the dogs are so cute on stage,” Pettus said.
In 2023, 6.5 million animals entered U.S. shelters, a 4 percent increase compared to 2022, according to Shelter Animals Count. By the end of 2023, there were 117,000 more dogs and cats in the shelter system than the previous year.
Tajin’s role in “Legally Blonde” highlights his outgoing and friendly nature. Described as an extrovert who quickly becomes your best friend, especially if you’re offering pets or snacks, Tajin is still looking for the perfect home. The shelter notes he would prefer to be the only pet but could potentially live with a well-matched companion.
For those interested in adopting Tajin or learning more about fostering and adopting shelter animals, more information is available at the Austin Animal Center.
