Digital Cover lifestyle© BennyBurrito/Instagram

Pet of the week: Benny Burrito, a chihuahua with 10 different dog breeds in his family tree.

After being a stray in Oklahoma, Benny was adopted and found a forever home.


Daniel Neira - Los Angeles
Senior WriterLos Angeles
JANUARY 31, 2025 4:17 PM EST

This registered therapy dog was given a second chance after being rescued by his parents, Jane and Cole, in Oklahoma. Benny Burrito now works as a Caring Canine Volunteer at the Mayo Clinic St. Mary’s Campus in Rochester, and he is known for having a happy life while helping his community.

Benny is a 5-year-old Chihuahua terrier mix with a very interesting background, as his owners discovered that his family tree was larger than expected. Jane and Cole decided to do a DNA test and found that Benny has over 10 different dog breeds in his ancestry. 

© BennyBurrito/Instagram

After being a stray in Oklahoma, Benny was adopted and found a forever home with the help of a local rescue organization. Benny takes his job very seriously as a registered therapy dog. "We are proud to celebrate the diverse origins and talents of these special dogs," the Mayo Clinic shared on social media about the small chihuahua. 

© BennyBurrito/Instagram

"Before he was a Burrito, Benny was found as a stray on the streets of Oklahoma and transported to a foster home," the official account shared about his life story. "With a heap of love from his humans, Jane and Cole, a pinch of patience, and lots of training, Benny blossomed from a timid, shy Chihuahua to the most caring Burrito to ever walk the halls of Mayo Clinic!"

© BennyBurrito/Instagram

His owners also document Benny's daily moments while working at St. Mary’s Campus in Rochester. The couple have shared photos of Benny posing with the staff. "Cuddles with the nursing staff at St. Mary’s hospital—just another day in paradise," the caption reads.

© BennyBurrito/Instagram

He also attended the volunteer gala with the rest of his furry co-workers. "Had so much fun with all of my friends at the volunteer gala!! How cool was it that we got to join in on all the fun," Benny's owners shared. "You are very handsome and obviously clever, Benny Burrito! Much love to you and thank you for your service," one person wrote, while someone else commented, "Good job, Benny!"

© ¡HOLA! Reproduction of this article and its photographs in whole or in part is prohibited, even when citing their source.