Paris Hilton blamed for epidemic of abandoned chihuahua

London, Feb 13 (ANI): Animal activists have blamed socialite Paris Hilton for the epidemic of abandoned Chihuahuas in California animal shelters.

The animal shelter bosses have now banned anyone under 21 from adopting a miniature pup, following a growing trend of young women dumping their full-grown dogs when they're sick of caring for them.

They blamed the 27-year-old hotel heiress' menagerie of tiny animals for the increasing problem.

Hilton was investigated last year after admitting that she owned 17 dogs, allegedly breaking U.S. laws that ban non-breeders from having more than three per address.

"Chihuahuas are not a toy or a fashion accessory. But because some people think they are - then realise they're wrong - there's a growing problem of abandoned Chihuahuas," the Daily Star quoted Chihuahua Club of America head Lynnie Bunten as telling the National Enquirer. (ANI)