Penny the Chihuahua Released from Hospital After Vicious Attack

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“It’s a miracle that she’s alive,” says Lauren Claus.

Penny the Chihuahua was released from BluePearl Animal Hospital and is now at home recovering. Penny was mauled by two pit bulls on Saturday in front of Viand (the corner of Columbus and West 85th Street).

According to Claus’ latest update in the Upper West Side Dog Club Facebook group, she is “safe and happier than we’ve ever seen her in the past couple days.”

Penny is now on oral medication and will require “a lot of wound care and rest, as well as lots of follow up care,” Claus detailed in another update. Claus confirmed Penny’s prognosis is good, given the circumstances.

Claus thanked the community for its support. She said, “If it wasn’t for y’all helping she would not be with us today. I am continually overwhelmed by the love and support of the community. I am so glad we live here with such wonderful neighbors.”

When asked about how the community can help further, Claus urged people to sign the Change.org petition she made for Penny to bring further attention to this incident and hold the owners accountable. A GoFundMe campaign was created by Claus’ current boyfriend to help raise funds for Penny’s vet bills and potential legal fees. As of writing, they’ve raised over $34,000, exceeding their original goal of $25,000.

Public demand for support has seemingly raised awareness to local representatives, with NY State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumr posting about the attacks on X (formally Twitter).

I was horrified to learn Penny the chihuahua was hospitalized when a couple let their pitbulls attack her on the UWS. The same owners are believed to have let the dogs kill another dog. That this is not a crime is a wakeup call to update our laws ASAP. I am introducing a bill now pic.twitter.com/nxWcdAnGpz

— Jenifer Rajkumar (@JeniferRajkumar) May 4, 2025

According to the Gothamist, “[Eric] Adams said NYPD and Department of Health and Mental Hygiene are ‘looking into the matter.” He reportedly said, “We’re horrified to hear about the attack on Penny the chihuahua over the weekend. We encourage any witnesses or victims to come forward with any additional information.”

Claus and “Justice for Penny” supporters plan to attend the Community Board 7 meeting on Tuesday, May 6, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Goddard Community Center (593 Columbus Ave) to raise awareness. Councilwoman Brewer and Claus will also host a community meeting on Wednesday, May 7, at 4 p.m. at the same location to continue raising awareness and seek NYPD support.

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