About Us

Rescuing with love in Columbia, Missouri (est. 2021) ❣️

We are a family that loves Chihuahuas!  We have a combined 30 years of experience with providing Chihuahuas a safe, happy, and loving home.  Klaudia, our founder, has direct experience with a multitude of health and behavioral issues with Chihuahuas and is constantly improving her educational and capability with animal welfare training and rescue seminars.  Our Core Five pack of chihuahuas, Boss, Gunner, Zim, Penny, & Zelda, have become expert fosters brothers and sister, helping to acclimate any new rescue and providing them with the comfort and entertainment a dog needs in a new environment.

A Winning Team

Our amazing team of volunteers are committed to helping animals in our community. We take our convictions and turn them into action. Think  you would be a good fit? See our contact page for more information!

Lil’ Paws In The News

Lovers of little dogs: Chihuahua rescue hosts fundraiser for dogs in need

Despite the heat, many dog owners showed up at Twin Lakes Dog Park with their canine companions to register for the Lil Bow Wow Pow Wow racing event organized by Lil’ Paws, Big Hearts Chihuahua Rescue. Small dog lovers had the chance to see their furry friends running in a competition that hopes to raise money to help dogs in need. The collected funds will pay for pet supplies, medical costs and food for Chihuahuas. The organization has been able to rescue 38 dogs so far.

Food, art and dog treats were available for people and pets to enjoy. Other nonprofit organizations were there to provide support and show their own initiatives, while volunteers helped raise awareness of the issues that Chihuahuas face.

Klaudia Rejmer, the founder of Lil’ Paws, Big Hearts Chihuahua Rescue, did not expect to see this many people show up. She wanted to open up a space for small dogs since they are fragile and owners sometimes are fearful and feel unsafe when they are around bigger dogs. For Rejmer, it is important to let people know that Chihuahuas are not mean dogs. “They are loving if you give them the chance,” Rejmer said.

Chihuahuas were allowed to roam freely during the races. Some decided to run toward their owners as they called out their names, while others went outside the race track fence to play in the fields. “It’s fun and cute,” said Luke Kroon, an attendee of the event. Kroon’s own dog could not race because he was too old but still wanted to show support and enjoy this unique gathering in Columbia.

Source: Columbia Missourian
By: SHARON QUINTANA ORTIZ
September 3, 2023

Lil Paws Big Hearts hosts inaugural 'Lil Bow Wow Pow Wow' for small dogs in Columbia

Columbia - Lil Paws Big Hearts is hosting their first annual fundraiser the “Lil Bow Wow Pow Wow” tomorrow at the twin lakes recreation area in Columbia.

The event which is catered for smaller dogs aims to raise awareness for the rescue, care, and rehabilitation of chihuahuas in need.

Klaudia Rejmer, director and owner of Lil Paws Big Hearts, says the event is all about getting little dogs together for a fun filled afternoon.

“Our goal is to provide entertainment for tiny dogs... Most dog events are typically for bigger dogs and it’s very hard to take a tiny dog there. They kind of get bulled over by bigger dogs and it’s really not safe for them.”

Klaudia says the event is for dogs under 25 pounds and there will a variety of activities for those who attend such as puppy yoga, games for adults and kids, and adult beverages supplied by Bur Oak Brewing.

Klaudia says the event she is most excited for however is the chihuahua race.

“They are epically hilarious because chihuahuas aren’t known for their racing prowess, so it’s just a fun and entertaining event the dogs have a ton of fun and they get all their energy out and it’s just a great time all around.”

The Lil Bow Wow Pow Wow is scheduled to run from 1pm to 5pm.

Source: KRCG-13
by Ryan Smith
September 2, 2023

KRCG-13 broadcast of our first annual fundraiser