Concerned pet lovers, specifically fans of the breed of dog called the Havanese, have created Havanese rescue centres. Named for Havana, Cuba, the Havanese is a breed of small, “toy,” dog that originated in Cuba. Havanese may date as far back as the 16th century. These dogs were popular in aristocratic Spanish families. Later, their popularity trickled down to the Cuban middle class and crossed the ocean to Europe and America. The popularity of the breed, as well as the high price for a Havanese puppy, is the reason behind the illicit breeding and sale of the Havanese and the necessity for Havanese rescue centres.



