City Highlights “Adopt a Shelter Dog” Month as Shelters Near Capacity

ALBUQUERQUE — There are only two weeks left in the October “Adopt a Shelter Dog” month, and plenty of dogs (and cats) to pick from at all city shelters.  More than plenty, in fact. The City’s pet shelters has had an influx of intakes and are operating near capacity which can create undo stress on our dogs and cats. Winter is approaching, and the Animal Welfare Department (AWD) is asking for the community to pitch in and help the animals.

“This is the time to answer the call,” said Carolyn Ortega, Director of Animal Welfare Department. “Your support can enhance our shelter pet’s quality of life. Please be part of our future worth fighting for and join AWD’s team today.”

AWD is the largest and leading open admissions municipal shelter in New Mexico with live intake numbers increasing and pet overpopulation climbing. From January 1 through October 12, 2024, AWD has admitted 13,538 live animal intakes. This year we saw an increase of 3.8% compared to the same time period in 2023.

“Overcrowding puts a lot of stress on these pets, and can make a tough situation even tougher for them,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “It’s also an opportunity for the community to by step in and make a real difference by fostering, volunteering, donating, or taking in one of these pets in as part of the family.”

There are lots of way to help, and AWD can help you find the opportunity that’s right for you.

Here are just some of the ways you can get involved:

• Adopt pets from the shelter – adoption fee waived
• Foster pets
• Volunteering
• Donate supplies
• Spay and Neuter your pets, actively promote spaying and neutering to reduce pet overpopulation
• Spread awareness about AWD’s shelter's needs through social media and word-of-mouth

A sample of the pets who need your help:

AWD has long-term pets like Charlie, Bingo and Parker who have been at the shelter for four months or longer waiting for a forever home.  Every pet adopted to a new loving home will help to alleviate the increased overcrowding in our shelters.

 Charlie A1891148 has been here at the Westside since 2/16/24 - Charlie LOVES to play in the kiddie pool, he is a true water dog and would no doubt love larger bodies of water too! He is affectionate and fun and loves toys, and when he gets excited he loves to flip around in circles, which is sure to make anyone laugh and smile. Charlie will also stand on his hind legs for a treat, a real performer! He knows sit and is also housetrained. Whether you're looking for a hiking and camping partner, or a companion for long walks and backyard playtime, Charlie would be a good fit! Check out Charlie having some fun! https://youtu.be/FDec8620V8c  

Bingo A1891616 been here at the Westside since 2/26/24 – Bingo is full of life and always ready for a new adventure. He is very friendly and loves meeting new people and exploring new places. Playtime is Bingo’s favorite time, whether it's a game of fetch or a playful wrestle, he is always up for fun. He is quite energetic and loves to run and play, a constant source of entertainment! Bingo is ready to give all his love to a family who will love him back.

Parker A1901333 has been at the Eastside since 6/22/24 - Parker is very sweet and a smart girl, she knows “sit,” “down,” and takes treats gently. She’s very good on leash and seems easy to train, she learned how to chase tennis balls in one session! Also, Parker is dog friendly, and would love to go to a home with another dog. She would bring joy and fun to any family.

In an ongoing effort to provide accessible services to every Albuquerque citizen and promote responsible pet ownership, AWD will continue to offer free microchipping and pet tags through the end of December.  It is essential to ensure that the details linked to your pet’s microchip remain up-to-date so the pet can be successfully identified. AWD’s shelter provides all-year-round free service to update pet owners microchips.

For more information:

Sign up to Volunteer or Fostering

Donate supplies click here

View adoptable pets click here 

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