Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos Wait for New Puppy as Parasite Treatment Delays Homecoming
Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos have hit a snag in their latest family expansion: their newly adopted rescue dog is being treated for a parasite, postponing his arrival at their New York City home. The couple shared the news during an interview with PEOPLE at the Broadway opening of "Other Desert Cities" on October 18, just days after announcing the adoption on their daytime talk show.
"We don't have him yet because he had a little bit of health issue," Ripa, 56, explained. Consuelos, 55, clarified, "A parasite. So they're treating it and then he's going to come." He added that the wait should be short: "Any day now."
The puppy, originally named Lucas, was introduced to audiences during "Live with Kelly and Mark"'s Adopt a Dog Week on October 12, brought in by rescue organization Pet ResQ Inc. Consuelos carried the pup onto the set, where he promptly fell asleep in his arms. By the next morning, the couple had made the adoption official. "We have news: We adopted Javi yesterday," Consuelos announced on the October 13 episode, using the name he had proposed for the dog. Ripa exclaimed, "We have a new baby!"
A Name Still in Limbo
Even as the adoption was finalized, the couple had not settled on what to call their new addition. Consuelos initially suggested Javi, short for Javier, while Ripa seemed inclined to keep the dog's original name, Lucas. The pair have been working through the decision while awaiting the puppy's clean bill of health.
A Heartwarming Adoption With a Medical Hiccup
The delay comes less than a week after the couple's joyful announcement, which followed the loss of their longtime dog Chewie in February 2025. Ripa has spoken about feeling a connection between Chewie and the rescue pup, suggesting the new dog was a sign from her late pet. "Somebody on social media said, 'Oh, Chewie sent you a good one.' And I was like, 'Yes!' I was thinking that, too," she said.
The couple also took steps to introduce the newcomer to their current dog, Lena, a Maltese/Shih Tzu mix they adopted in 2020. Lena was brought backstage for a "chemistry test" with Lucas/Javi. According to Ripa, Lena was initially apprehensive but eventually played beside the other dog. "She's very funny, though. She's as terrified of Javi as she is every other dog," Ripa joked. Consuelos noted, "Lena, she didn't bark at Javi." The couple hopes to continue careful, gradual introductions once the puppy arrives.
Preparing for Parenthood Again
Despite the delay, Ripa admitted she is already nesting. "We are like expectant parents," she said on the show. "I started nesting last night. I couldn't sleep. I started making a nest." The couple's excitement is palpable, even as they navigate the logistical and medical hurdles of adopting a rescue animal.
What the Delay Means for Rescue Adoptions
While the setback is minor and expected to resolve soon, it highlights a common reality in pet adoption: health issues often surface after an animal is rescued, requiring treatment before they can join their forever homes. Parasites are among the most frequent ailments in rescue dogs, particularly those from shelters or breeding operations, and treatment is typically straightforward.
The couple's experience also underscores the importance of gradual introductions between new pets and existing ones. By bringing Lena to meet the puppy before bringing him home, Ripa and Consuelos are following best practices recommended by animal behaviorists, which can ease the transition and reduce stress for both animals. Their openness about the process offers a relatable glimpse into the challenges of adoption, even for celebrities.
As for the name debate, fans have weighed in on social media, but the final decision remains with the couple. Whether the puppy becomes Javi or Lucas, he is already a beloved member of the family—just not yet under their roof. For now, Ripa and Consuelos are playing the waiting game, eager to welcome their new "baby" as soon as his treatment concludes. With any luck, that day is just around the corner.
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