Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos Adopt New Dog 20 Months After Losing Beloved Shih Tzu, Chewie: ‘She Sent Us a Good One’

**Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos Welcome New Rescue Dog Javi**

Television personalities Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos have delighted fans by announcing the adoption of their new rescue dog, Javi. This heartwarming revelation came during the episode of ‘Live with Kelly and Mark’ aired on 13 October 2026, where the couple shared their joy in bringing another furry friend into their lives nearly two years after the passing of their dearly-loved Shih Tzu, Chewie.

Consuelos, 55, broke the news enthusiastically at the start of the show, declaring, “We have news: We adopted Javi yesterday,” while Ripa, 56, chimed in with excitement, exclaiming, “We have a new baby!” Their decision to adopt appeared somewhat spontaneous, as it followed a memorable encounter just a day prior during the show’s annual Adopt a Dog Week.

The adorable pup, initially named Lucas, had been featured on the show courtesy of Pet Rescue NY. During his brief appearance on the show, Javi immediately took to Consuelos, snuggling up in his arms and ultimately dozing off while the couple engaged with the audience. Ripa remarked on the transformation she noticed in her husband, saying, “I saw a different you. I saw a kinder, gentler you.”

Consuelos’s affection for the dog sparked discussions about a potential new name. He pondered the name “Javi,” even as Ripa reminded him of the dog’s current name. “This is trouble,” she humorously noted, recognizing that it may not be the best idea to name a dog before officially welcoming him into their home.

The couple also had to consider the opinions of their existing pet, Lena, a Maltese/Shih Tzu mix they adopted during a previous show segment in 2020. Ripa confessed to having slight reservations about adding a male dog to their family, given their history of owning female dogs. Despite this, Consuelos remained positive, believing that Javi and Lena would form a good bond. Ripa teased about the importance of a successful introduction, saying, “We’re going to have a chemistry test. See if they get along.”

In the days following the announcement, the couple shared updates about Lena and Javi’s initial meeting via social media. While the introduction had its awkward moments, it ended on a high note with both dogs playing nearby. Ripa suggested a gradual introduction to ensure both pets adjust comfortably, saying, “I think we’re going to have to slow exposure, slow. But I think they’re going to be A-okay.” Consuelos added confidently, “Great buddies.”

As they awaited Javi’s move-in date, pending necessary medical tests, Ripa admitted to being swept up in the excitement of their new familial chapter. “We are like expectant parents,” she remarked, revealing that she had begun to prepare the house for Javi’s imminent arrival.

This adoption held deeper emotional significance for Ripa, as memories of Chewie flooded her thoughts during their initial encounter with Javi. Ripa reflected, “I kept thinking about how much Javi reminded me of Chewie,” suggesting that perhaps Chewie had a hand in leading them to Javi. She poignantly shared her belief that Chewie might have sent Javi into their lives, commenting on the uncanny resemblance between the two dogs.

Consuelos acknowledged the serendipity of the moment, noting that he had not originally intended to carry a dog onto the set that day. He admitted he was unsure at first but quickly changed his mind, reasoning, “Let me see the dog,” which ultimately led to the adoption.

Producer Ashley Lewis, who played a crucial role in the match-making process, was also acknowledged by Ripa. She had previously introduced the couple to Lena and joked about Lewis’s knack for pairing dogs with owners perfectly. Lewis responded to this sentiment by agreeing that even she felt a connection between Chewie and Javi during their first meeting.

Since the loss of Chewie in February 2025, the couple had openly expressed their desire to adopt a new pet but admitted they weren’t fully ready until now. Ripa and Consuelos recalled their previous attempts to adopt—a close call with a poodle puppy that did not go ahead due to Lena’s apprehension.

Throughout this process, the couple has maintained that they would forever cherish the memory of Chewie, who stood by their side through significant family milestones as their children grew up. Ripa reflected, “We’re filled with gratitude for this dog,” highlighting the strong bond that Chewie had created with their family.

Now, with Javi set to join their household, Ripa and Consuelos are looking forward to the new adventures that await them. “It’s exciting,” Consuelos said, reflecting the couple’s anticipation of what this next chapter holds. “We’re very excited,” Ripa concluded, ready to embrace the joys and challenges that come with welcoming a new pet into their lives.