ABQ Times

There are only two weeks remaining in October's "Adopt a Shelter Dog" month, and Albuquerque's city shelters are facing an influx of animals. The city's pet shelters are nearing capacity, leading to increased stress on the animals housed there. With winter approaching, the Animal Welfare Department (AWD) is calling for community support.

“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.”

The AWD is New Mexico's largest open admissions municipal shelter, witnessing a rise in live intake numbers as pet overpopulation grows. From January 1 through October 12, 2024, AWD admitted 13,538 live animal intakes—an increase of 3.8% compared to the same period last year.

“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 step in and make a real difference by fostering, volunteering, donating, or taking in one of these pets as part of the family.”

AWD offers various ways for people to help:

- Adopt pets from the shelter with waived adoption fees

- Foster pets

- Volunteer

- Donate supplies

- Spay and neuter pets while promoting these practices to reduce overpopulation

- Spread awareness about AWD’s needs via social media and word-of-mouth

Several long-term residents like Charlie, Bingo, and Parker have been at the shelter for four months or more awaiting adoption.

Charlie has been at Westside since February 16th. He loves playing in water and enjoys toys. Charlie knows how to sit and is housetrained.

Bingo has been at Westside since February 26th. He enjoys meeting new people and exploring places with plenty of energy for playtime activities.

Parker has been at Eastside since June 22nd. She knows basic commands like "sit" and "down," takes treats gently, is good on leash, dog-friendly, and easy to train.

To promote responsible pet ownership among Albuquerque citizens while providing accessible services throughout December end free microchipping along with pet tags will continue being offered by AWD ensuring up-to-date information linked towards identifying any lost companion effectively if necessary; additionally offering free service updating details connected through microchips remains available all year round.

For further information about volunteering opportunities fostering donation options or viewing adoptable animals visit their website today!