‘Legally Blonde’ Star Shelter Dog Needs Forever Home

A long-term shelter resident in Austin, Texas, is now in the limelight after being cast in a community theater production of Legally Blonde while searching for his forever home.

Tajin's journey to stardom began on August 12, 2021, when he was rescued by animal protection officers. Found with another dog, both tied up in a yard without food or water, Tajin was brought to the Austin Animal Center, where he has been waiting for his forever home.

During his time at the shelter, Tajin's personality shone through, making him a favorite among staff and volunteers. He has spent time in homes, first being fostered by a group of University of Texas students and now, at 8 years old, living with foster caregiver Erin Pettus.

While still searching for his perfect home, Tajin has been enjoying the limelight. "Zilker Theater Productions has been incredibly generous, reaching out to Austin Animal Center to use adoptable dogs in their live show," says Pettus, Tajin's current foster, told Newsweek. "They have been so supportive, not only working with Tajin on stage but also helping promote quite a few of our other long-stay dogs before the show and at intermission."

"It's been wonderful not only for the promotion that Tajin gets but also for 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, according to Shelter Animals Count, up 4 percent compared to 2022 intakes. At the end of 2023, 117,000 additional dogs and cats were in the animal sheltering system compared to the same time the year before.

Tajin's presence in Legally Blonde perfectly showcases his outgoing and friendly nature. Described as an extrovert who quickly becomes your best friend—especially if you're offering pets or snacks—he is still searching for the perfect home. The shelter said he would prefer to be the only pet but could potentially live with a well-matched friend.

How to Adopt Tajin

If you are interested in adopting Tajin, you can visit the Austin Animal Center website to learn more about the adoption process and to fill out an adoption application. You can also contact the shelter directly at (512) 978-0500 for more information.

For those not in the Austin area, consider visiting Petfinder or Adopt-a-Pet to find other adoptable animals near you. Adoption is a wonderful way to give animals like Tajin a second chance at a loving home.