CHICO LIVES HIS BROADWAY DREAM

By Associated Humane Societies/Popcorn Park Zoo

IT’S GOT THE MAKINGS of its own Broadway hit. A small orphaned dog, living his days in an animal shelter, discovered by a generous and caring trainer who makes the little Chihuahua a true star!

That’s the story of Chico, brought to the Associated Humane Societies Newark Shelter by an Elizabeth family who no longer wanted him. Enter animal trainer Bill Berloni, a longtime believer of finding talent in animal shelters, who saw Chico and decided he would be a perfect “Bruiser,” constant companion dog of Actress Laura Lee Bundy in the Broadway show, “Legally Blonde – The Musical.”

“We’re so proud of our little Chico,” said Associated Humane Societies/Popcorn Park Executive Director Roseann Trezza. “When he was here he seemed sad. We all wanted to see great things for this little guy. Thanks to Bill, who has come to us before and is a huge animal rights sponsor, Chico’s star has risen.”

Bill’s passion is helping homeless animals at shelters -- he uses this passion when trying out animals for the entertainment field and when friends ask his help in adopting a pet. Bill and over 30 of his animals that he has at his Connecticut home (the animal actor’s retirement home) were recently spotlighted on CBS-TV SUNDAY MORNING.

Chico was chosen from among the dogs awaiting adoption at the Society's Newark facility, and we were thrilled that he landed the main role as Bruiser. Backstage there are two understudies for Chico who are trained for his part. Boo Boo and Teddie are two English Bulldogs who are also featured in the play.

Bill will not train primates, wild animals or predators. He has won awards from the ASPCA and the American Humane Association. According to Clive Barnes of the NEW YORK POST, "the performances are as cozily right as the show’s beautifully trained Chihuahua and bulldog". LEGALLY BLONDE, THE MUSICAL is currently playing at Broadway’s Palace Theater and was nominated for 7 Tony Awards!

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The Associated Humane Societies, founded in 1906, is the largest animal sheltering system in New Jersey. We comprise three shelters located in Newark, Forked River, and Tinton Falls . Our Forked River facility also includes Popcorn Park Zoo. Established in 1977, Popcorn Park Zoo is a sanctuary for abandoned, injured, ill, exploited, abused or elderly wildlife, exotic and farm animals, and birds. The Society is a not for profit, 501 (c) 3 organization, and Popcorn Park is also a federally licensed zoo. The Society prides itself on our devotion to the thousands of animals that we care for annually and the chance for a better life we offer them. Visit us and learn more about our adoption center at http://ahscares.org