**Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos Debate Name for New Rescue Dog**
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Television hosts Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos have welcomed a new addition to their family, a rescue dog that has yet to officially receive a name. While Ripa introduced the pup as “Javi” during a recent episode of *Live with Kelly and Mark*, she clarified that the name is still under consideration.
The couple adopted the dog from Pet ResQ Inc., a rescue organisation in New Jersey, and are torn between sticking with the name “Lucas,” as given by the rescue, or adopting the name “Javi,” a name proposed by Consuelos based on his suspicion that the dog may be part Havanese.
Their three adult children, Michael, Lola, and Joaquin, have entered the naming fray, with Lola reportedly advocating strongly for the name “Javi.” Other suggestions from the children have included “Gizmo,” but Ripa has not taken their opinions to heart.
“Our children are adults. They do not live with us,” Ripa stated, humourously adding that she preferred her children keep out of the decision-making process. Consuelos echoed this sentiment, making it clear that their children will not have a vote in the matter, despite their suggestions.
Interestingly, even Consuelos has thrown around other naming ideas. On one occasion, he suggested the name “Romulus,” a choice met with quick dismissal by Ripa. “I was like, ‘Yes, nothing rolls off the tongue more like Romulus!’” she joked, asserting that the name seemed more suited for a larger dog.
As it stands, the couple has narrowed their choices down to just two options: Lucas or Javi. Ripa expressed her fondness for the name Javi, stating, “I do like the name! Like, when you go to the vet, saying ‘Javi Consuelos,’ that does sound right.”
To involve their audience in the decision, Ripa and Consuelos asked their viewers to vote on the names during a live studio session. Javi emerged victorious in a show of applause, and Consuelos enthusiastically exclaimed, “America has spoken!”
In addition to the studio audience, an Instagram poll has also been conducted, which revealed Javi in the lead with 77% of the votes compared to Lucas’s 23%. Ripa made it clear that she valued the audience’s input over that of their children, asserting that the professionals should have the final say in the naming process.
Ripa and Consuelos have a history of changing the names of their pets. Their late Shih Tzu, Chewie, was originally referred to as “Lola,” a name that caused confusion due to their daughter’s similar name. “She looked like Chewbacca, so we were like, ‘Chew-becca!’” Ripa recalled fondly.
Their other dog, Lena, was initially named Angelina, following a character from *Jersey Shore*. However, Consuelos had envisioned calling her “Lea” to align with a Star Wars theme alongside Chewie. “Chewie and Lea. It would have been very Star Wars-ean,” he quipped, leading Ripa to retort, “Well, that ship has sailed. Her name is Lena.”
While the debate continues, the couple is enthusiastic about their new family member, who has not yet moved in as they await necessary medical tests. Ripa likened their level of excitement to that of expectant parents, revealing, “I started nesting last night. I couldn’t sleep.”
The adoption comes shortly after Consuelos first interacted with the pup on air during the show’s recent Adopt a Dog Week. Ripa shared a heartfelt sentiment, reflecting on how she believes their late dog, Chewie, may be guiding Javi to them. “I bet Chewie sent Javi here for us,” she mused, speaking to the bond she felt upon first seeing the new dog.
As they await Javi’s formal arrival into their household, Ripa and Consuelos are clearly looking forward to integrating their new furry friend into their lives. The couple continues to juggle parental roles both for their children and now for their new pet, with excitement for the future ahead.