Mr. Piffles, Magic Chihuahua, Dies Before 17th Birthday

Mr. Piffles, the beloved canine companion of magician Piff the Magic Dragon, has died just shy of his 17th birthday. Known as the 'World's First Magic Performing Chihuahua,' Mr. Piffles performed in over 5,000 shows, including high-profile appearances on 'America's Got Talent' and 'Penn & Teller: Fool Us.' Piff, whose real name is John van der Put, credited Mr. Piffles for transforming his career and expressed deep gratitude for their time together. To honor his legacy, the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas, where Piff has a residency, will hold a special ceremony and dedicate a dog-friendly space named 'Mr Piffles' Magical Playground.' Mr. Piffles will be succeeded by a cloned Chihuahua, Mr. Piffles the Second, to continue the magic act. The Chihuahua's passing marks the end of an era for the Las Vegas entertainment scene, where he was the only animal to receive the Key to the Las Vegas Strip.