'Ponch' -- The Bay Bridge Chase Chihuahua -- Gets Adopted

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Ponch, the 10-pound Chihuahua that led CHP officers on a chase across the Bay Bridge last month, is going to a new home.

The dog became an Internet sensation following the chase, but the dog's owner never stepped forward to claim him, CBS San Francisco reported, and he was sent to a foster home for about three weeks until a permanent home could be found.

Officers named him after Eric Estrada's character from "CHiPs."

Hundreds of people from across the country contacted authorities to adopt him from San Francisco Animal Care & Control.

Officials took their time narrowing down the applicants to find a home that could provide for Ponch financially and give him enough space to run around.

"We're happy that Ponch's story has ended with a loving new home," Animal Care & Control Executive Director Virginia Donohue said in a statement to CBS San Francisco.

The new owners have chosen to remain anonymous.