Albuquerque Animal Welfare

09/07/2024

Meet Melissa, an exuberant lady with a heart full of joy and a spirit that's always ready for adventure! This lovable gal thrives on friendly interactions, both with people and her fellow four-legged friends. Whether she’s frolicking in the play yard, rolling around in the mulch, or enthusiastically sniffing out every new scent, Melissa’s zest for life is truly infectious.

Melissa has a special talent for making new friends, though she might take a moment to warm up to new people or situations. Thanks to her graduation from the Shy Dog Program, she’s learned to navigate her shyness with grace and patience. When she’s comfortable, she’s all about belly rubs—she’ll happily roll over and invite you to give her a good scratch.

While Melissa enjoys her walks, she does have a tendency to pull a bit. Luckily, a harness helps keep her strides in check, allowing her to enjoy her outdoor adventures with ease. If you’re looking for a mature, playful, and affectionate companion who’s always up for a romp or a snuggle, Melissa might just be your perfect match!

09/06/2024

Meet Moo (A1877555)-And doesn't that name suit him!
the friendly and laidback pup who's more interested in making new friends than chasing squirrels. This gentle giant may be big, but he's got a heart of gold. Moo knows basic commands like "sit" and "shake," and he loves playing interactive games like "find it" to show off his smarts. Despite his size, Moo is perfectly behaved on the leash and gets along great with other dogs. If you're looking for a loyal companion to cuddle up with, this easygoing boy might just be your perfect match. Come meet him at the Eastside Shelter-8920 Lomas Blvd NE-he would love to be your best friend.

09/05/2024

We really enjoyed being at Bark In the Park at Isotopes Park. It was wonderful seeing how much our City loves their dogs and how the Isotopes supports that love.

09/04/2024

We missed Volun-Tuesday yesterday, but here is a Wednesday Woof Out to our Beanie (A1898626) who is loved by our volunteers. This is what Robert and Valerie had to say about Beanie after taking him home for a few hours:
Bubbly, snuggly Beanie is one of my very favorite AWD dogs ever! Beanie is so popular with volunteers that he has usually already been taken out when I am hoping to walk him. So, on Labor Day, I decided to bring him home so I could have him to myself. He was the perfect guest in our house, making friends with my dogs -- even prompting some play with my younger dog. The person who found Beanie as a stray reported he was also good with her cats. Beanie, five years young, loves to snuggle, but he's a good walker too. He has gained weight with the sedentary shelter life and he needs some exercise to get back in shape. This little guy is move in ready. Take him home today! He's at the Eastside shelter , Kennel Q59. Come meet him today!

09/04/2024

We will be at the Los Volcanes Senior Center this Saturday, September 7th.
For more information and to sign up:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/904084BA9AA2AABF49-50561888-wecare #/

Date: 09/07/2024 (Sat.)
Location: Los Volcanes Senior Center
6500 Los Volcanes NW
Albuquerque, NM 87121

Animal Welfare Department (AWD) "We Care" Mobile Van. This program is for Low-Moderate income families and their pets for Vaccines and Microchip ONLY.

If you need a Spay/Neuter program, please visit Cabq.gov/pets to sign up in our Lottery program. This is not for emergency services, please contact your private Veterinarian.

Thank you.

09/03/2024

Today we will show you how to create a First Aid Kit for your pets.

09/02/2024

Happy Monday!
We see a lot in our clinic and this past week was no different. AND, we know it takes a village. We had 5 dogs that were confiscated when their owner passed away. These dogs were in pretty bad shape, terrible mating of their fur. Our vet team was able to take some time each day to shave these dogs so that they were more comfortable. Their pictures were retaken and they are now up and ready for adoption. Check out Aee and Cee here. Chiquita and Bee are also available, check out the website! Little Mama was already adopted.

Then over the weekend we had another dog come in full of burrs! We had to do something. With the help from Candice from kennels and Gigi from the clinic they were able to get Will Burr completely shaved! We don’t always have the time nor the staff to take care of this right away but when we can all work together and we do make a difference!

08/30/2024

Rio Grande Doggy Paddle-Please join us (PLEASE READ whole post)

The City of Albuquerque Aquatics Division is teaming up with the Department of Animal Welfare to host a dog swim day at the Rio Grande Pool.

When
Sept. 7 2024:11:00 AM - 03:00 PM -Two sessions:
(Session 1: 11:00 AM-1:00 PM/Session 2: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM

Where
Rio Grande Outdoor Pool
1410 Iron Ave SW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
505-768-4928

Description
General Event Rules:
Click here for liability waiver for the event:
https://www.cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/documents/release-and-waiver-of-liability-and-assumption-of-risk.pdf

Pool closed to all public not attending the event
Session 1: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Session 2: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Owner must present valid vaccination records upon check in. All dogs must have current vaccination records (to include rabies, distemper, parvo virus, and bordetella)
• No humans without dog
• 1 dog/1 adult, Children must be attended by an adult, no children in the water
• Dogs allowed in the water with people
• People not permitted in the pool unless accompanying their dog
• Dogs permitted in pool without their accompanying adult
• 40 people + 40 dogs maximum in pool at any one time
• Leashes required at all times when not in water
• Dogs that have been ill with vomiting or diarrhea will not be permitted in the pool area. Any dog with a known infectious illness, such as Salmonella, is also prohibited from swimming
• All dogs must be micro chipped or have tags on collar with owner info
• Admission will be charged at a rate of 5.00/dog.
• All dogs must be shampooed and rinsed on site before pool entry to remove excess dirt, hair, etc (dogs with f***l matter on their coat will not be allowed to swim)
• Wading Pool will be available for non-swimming dogs
• Dogs must be under voice control and in sight of owners/handlers at all times
• Any dog exhibiting aggressive behavior must be leashed and removed immediately
• Owners must clean up and properly dispose of waste left by their dog
• Puppies using the pool must be older than six months
• Owners must cover any holes their dogs dig
• Un-neutered male dogs and female dogs in heat shall not be permitted
Main Pool Water Conditions:
• Chlorine levels @ 5PPM starting 8 hours prior to event
• Pool heated at 83 degrees
• Water Tests performed every hour
• The pool has built portable steps for canine egress, in addition to the normal ladders provided
• Event will be two sessions each lasting two hours
• Lifeguards up on stand, but only responsible for responding to humans, not dogs.

Price
$5.00 per dog. Humans are free

08/28/2024

We had to feature Pacho (A1867784) again. He was in our long term pet post last week, but he went on an adventure with one of our volunteers and he wanted you to know about it. https://youtu.be/r5fmDf4360M?si=EYn22_i7shVzWT8_

Meet Pacho, the bundle of joy with a spunky personality that lights up any room! With his bright blue eyes that sparkle and a thick, luxurious fur coat, Pacho isn't just a sight to behold; he's a heart-stealer and a friend for life.
Though still young, Pacho has already mastered "sit," displaying an eagerness to learn and please. He enjoys zoomies/sprint/ around the play yard and loves being pet. Pacho is sweet and loving. He's the kind of dog who, after a day filled with adventure and play, will snuggle up beside you, content just to be in your presence. If you're looking for a fun-loving, energetic companion who will bring joy, laughter, and unconditional love into your life, Pacho is your boy. His bright blue eyes don't just look into yours; they see right into your heart. Adopt Pacho today! He is already neutered and ready to go!

Notes from his day out adventure: This guy was a great hiking buddy. He is gentle and sweet, as well as playful. He was so excited to be out of the shelter he was panting the entire time. He was very friendly with other dogs on the trail and people (could use some manner training but I didn’t notice anything major he may need to work on). We went up to a trail on Sandia, and he did well on the leash. He pulls a bit, but that’s workable with a harness and some consistent training. He did great in the car but may call shotgun.He is a young pup with a long life to live and deserves a great home. As an added bonus he loves to cuddle and responds to commands like sit and stay, especially when spoken to in Spanish.

08/27/2024

It is Volun-Tuesday!🎉 Today's pet comes from our volunteer Miriam we introduce you to Sponge Cake (A1904011) this cheerful pup loves making new friends! He's all about cuddles and attention, preferring pets over fetch. Sponge Cake is on the lookout for an active family with other dogs to share his joy. Treats? He’s gentle and easy when it comes to those! Come meet Sponge Cake at our Eastside Shelter. 8920 Lomas Blvd. NE.

08/27/2024

08/26/2024

Today is National Dog Day! Post pictures of your best friend and tell us a little about what makes them special.

08/26/2024

Today is Medical Monday and this time we are asking for your help. We are featuring a pup that needs a short term foster home, 4-8 weeks.
Sophie is a young Australian shepherd that had a pretty bad leg fracture. Our veterinarians were unable to repair this type of fracture. However, Petroglyph Animal Hospital stepped in and performed the repair. Sophie has a plate in her leg now and she is healing beautifully. She is going on short walks which is enabling her to use her leg correctly. Sophie is super sweet, very affectionate, and loves people. She is pretty good on leash, however she does like to “walk” herself sometimes!! She has been around other dogs and done just fine. However in foster she needs to be carefully monitored when around the other dogs in the home so that she doesn’t do too much running. During her foster time she needs to refrain from any horseplay, running or jumping. Short controlled walks are the best for her right now. Sophie needs to have medical rechecks every 2 weeks with the first one August 28 for new X-rays. If you are interested in fostering Sophie please email our foster coordinators at: [email protected]

08/24/2024

This is a small photo dump of dogs who have been in our shelter for a month or more. We can not figure out why they have been here so long. They are all wonderful dogs, beautiful and sweet. They are not doing well in the shelter, but would make wonderful companions. We are begging you to share, volunteer, foster, or just put in a good thought for these dear faces.
Pacho (A1867784)-Eastside Shelter
Loves playing with other dogs. Happy and easy to walk, no pulling. He is friendly, good in a crowd and good in the car. Knows how to sit when asked.
Thunder (A1774175)-Eastside Shelter
Thunder is a very handsome and goofy boy who would make a wonderful walking or hiking companion. He is a very smart gentleman who knows "sit" and "paw" (shake) and "down"! He has a moderate amount of energy and will happily play outside but also loves to take breaks for pets and cuddles.
Ellie(A1827496)-Eastside shelter
Ellie is a beautiful girl with a beautiful spirit to match. This playful girl loves to explore just as much as she loves settling down with you for pets. She knows how to sit and how to take treats nicely, and is easy to walk on a leash. Come gaze into her gorgeous eyes at the Eastside shelter today.
Jenesis (A1899247)-Eastside Shelter
Jenesis is very affectionate and give wonderful kisses. She knows how to sit, likes playing "find it" with treats and being rubbed and scratched all over.
Estelle Sparks (A1903664)-Eastside Shelter
Estelle Sparks is desperate to get out of the shelter. She is a very sweet girl.
Rufo (A1903268) Eastside Shelter
Rufo is loves to put his paws on your lap for petting. He also likes his ear scratched and being petted. He is a sweet, friendly dog.
Queen(A1899999) Westside Shelter
Queen enjoys playing with toys, tossing them in the air. She knows sit, likes attention, petting and brushing. Queen is gentle taking treats and responds to calling. She is possibly is house trained. Queen is fun and I believe would do well as a companion hiking dog. She has gentle eyes and is lovely.

08/23/2024

Did you know that AWD posts daily performance indicators on our website everyday? They show the number of intakes and outcomes, how many pets are in foster and many other bits of information.
Take a closer look at our numbers at https://www.cabq.gov/pets/data-dashboard

08/23/2024

Welcome to Foster Friday. Our highlighted pup is Daniels (A1887609)
PLEASE NOTE: You have to check him out in this video link (amazing boy)❤️
https://youtube.com/shorts/miOyz1mDdGo?si=cs79aTJYwzKPSmGr
Meet Daniels, a young spirited pup!! He is just over a year old, and a charming, loving boy. Daniels loves to play, his puppy gait- adorable. At his foster home, he has learned to play tug, almost has fetch down, and plays nicely with both his foster sibs! His playful nature is balanced with a friendly disposition. Daniels loves pets, and snuggling close and offering comfort. (He thinks he’s a 65lbs lap dog)! (Although he can be a little shy at first). His sweetness is undeniable, his love unconditional.

Daniels has proven to be dog friendly, getting along well with all other friendly dogs he has met. He also knows to adjust his play style depending on the friend.

Daniels arrived at the shelter as a stray in December, 2023. He was adopted for 3 days in April but returned shortly after, for not being potty trained. Since being in foster care, he’s now a potty trained champ! (He’s also a squatter and doesn’t mark).!
Daniels would do best in a home with another dog sibling as he loves to play.
Ask to meet Daniels today!

08/21/2024

Today is National Senior Citizen Day! Ginger is here to remind you that old dogs are the best dogs. They are calmer, usually housetrained, out of the chewing stagem and really want to spend time with you. Can you tell Ginger is ready for some football?🏈 We always have older dogs who are just looking for a soft bed and tasty treats, but have plenty of life left to have adventures. Come see our sweet seniors! Ginger (A1693774) is available at our Lucky Paws location.

08/21/2024

Imagine a cat named Rascal, a sleek, agile feline with a coat as dark as midnight and eyes that gleam like amber jewels. Rascal isn't your typical house cat—he’s a working cat with a job to do. His owners, rely on him to keep the house and barn free of pests. Mice and rats are his prey, and he's perfected the art of the hunt with years of practice.

You don't have to imagine a cat named Rascal, because here he is living his best life as a "Working" Cat. Albuquerque Animal Welfare has plenty of cats who are a little too "spicy" to be house pet, but they are perfect to patrol your barn, workshop, garage, or warehouse, ridding the space of vermin. All they ask for is a warm place to sleep, food and water and some attention. Who knows maybe they will show how wonderful they are like Rascal.
Come by and see us. We would love to give you more information on the program.

08/20/2024

The We Care Van is on the move again!!🚍🚍🐕🐈
🚍Drive-up Services: Vaccines/Microchipping
⌚️When: Saturday August 24th (Make an appointment today)
⌚️Time: 9am-1pm
🔁Where: Los Volcanes Senior Center (Parking lot).
☎️💻Please call 311 or visit www.cabq.gov/pets for more info and to grab a slot.

08/20/2024

This week's Pet Tip of the Week gives us ideas on how to find a lost pet.

08/19/2024

It’s Medical Monday again😊. This week we are featuring Tinker (A1897637). Tinker is 8 years young and quite a lovely lady. Tinker came into our clinic with mammary masses. She has already had a mastectomy on one side of her chest. She is waiting to have the other side done so that she can be free of the uncomfortable masses. Tinker is spry and loves to investigate the play yard. She looks for every platform in the yard that she can jump on. Maybe she did agility when she was younger!!! Tinker is great on leash, loves petting, mellow and easy going, and just loves to hang with her person. Tinker has met many dogs through the fence and has been very relaxed when doing so. Tinker loves her stuffed toys and will greet you at the gate with one in her mouth. Keep your eyes out on the website as Tinker will be available soon. She would be a wonderful addition to any type of family.

08/17/2024

Today is National Black Cat Appreciation Day!
Contrary to popular belief, black cats are not bad luck. In fact, folklore often depicts black cats as symbols of luck and fortune.
In Chinese folklore, black cats are good omens. In Japan, black cats promise new journeys or luck with money. In many African and Native American stories, black cats guard and provide for the home.
So, bring some good luck into your life-Adopt a Black Cat today!
Come to our Eastside (8920 Lomas Blvd. NE); Westside (11800 Sunset Gardens SW) or Lucky Paws (Coronado Mall) locations, we would love to see you.

08/16/2024

What do you get when you cross a dog with a calculator?
A best friend you can count on! 🤣🐶
Today is National Joke Day! You know what is not a joke-Brianna, T Rex and Mary need their forever home. These three sweet pups are not doing well in the shelter and would love a soft place to land. They are all very sweet and just want a home of their own. So why don't you come meet us at the shelter
Brianna (A1900060) is at the Eastside Shelter-8920 Lomas Blvd. NE
T Rex (A1896653) the beautiful black girl with drop ears and
Mary (A1898654) the stunning black and white girl with prick ears are at the Westside Shelter-11800 Sunset Gardens, SW.
Come and see us today! And stay Paws-a-tive!

08/15/2024

https://youtu.be/SHS7kfrYxcY
August 15th is Check the Chip Day!
Microchips reunite pets with families. Check the registration information for your pet's microchip once a year on Check the Chip Day.

Not Microchipped-No Problem! Just bring your pet to either one of our shelters and we will microchip them for you.
Register your pets chip immediately with the manufacturer, making sure all of your contact information is included.

If your pet is already microchipped:
Ask your veterinarian to scan the microchip during your pet's annual wellness exam every year. You may also have them scanned at any one of our shelters.

Each year on Check the Chip Day, check your pet's microchip registration information and update it if it's incomplete or no longer correct.

Updating your pet's microchip registration
To update your pet's registration, you’ll need your pet's microchip number. If you haven’t already created an account with the manufacturer, you’ll need to do that as well. Make sure that all of the information is correct, especially your phone number(s) and address.

There are many databases that allow you to register your pet's microchip, but the one that really counts—the one that animal shelters and veterinarians will search—is the database maintained by the manufacturer of your pet's microchip. You can quickly search the registries of most microchip manufacturers using the universal lookup tool provided by the AAHA. There also are public microchip registries that have been linked to the AAHA tool (https://www.aaha.org/for-veterinary-professionals/microchip-search/) to make it easier to find a microchip's registration.

Meet Max, who has a family that loves him. When Max becomes lost, it's his microchip to the rescue! August 15 is Check the Chip Day, where we remind pet owne...

08/14/2024

The Animal Welfare Department (AWD) is partnering with NBCUniversal for the National Adoption event, Saturday, August 10 through Tuesday, September 10, at the Eastside and Westside shelters, and Lucky Paws located in Coronado Mall.
View Adoptable pets:
https://www.cabq.gov/pets/adoptions/search-for-a-lost-or-adoptable-pet/search-for-a-lost-or-adoptable-pet
People will be able to meet the pets and talk to an adoption counselor to get assistance in finding the pet that will fit their family. The adoption fee is waived for all pets. Each adoption will include spay or neuter, a microchip, required vaccinations, and one free initial vet visit. For dogs, you will receive one free dog training class. On every adoption, you will receive a gift bag from Hill’s Pet Nutrition

08/14/2024

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/MR0dmUKDldM
Meet Peggy (A1888907) White dog and Felicity (A1899195) Black dog:
Two tripods who are showing that even with just three legs, these girls just wanna have fun.
Peggy (A1888907) is doing marvelous as a tripod. She came to us with a deformed leg that needed to be amputated. She is walking well, enjoying playdates with Felicia, and is over all coming out of her shell. Peggy does know sit and takes treats well. She would make a wonderful family pet.
Felicity (A1899195) Felicity came into our clinic with a fractured back leg. It was decided that her best outcome was amputation. Felicity is getting along beautifully on 3 legs. She loves to play with other dogs her size and enjoys being around other dogs.. Felicity loves treats and is super curious. She is gaining confidence daily so a patient home is a must. She would love a canine friend in the home to help teach her some confidence. Come and meet Felicity today.

08/13/2024

08/13/2024

Meet Bernard (A1896734)
Bernard is a joyful and energetic young dog who’s ready to bring endless fun and happiness to his forever home. At 2 years old, Bernard is full of life and has a friendly, outgoing personality that makes him an instant favorite wherever he goes.

Bernard is a happy-go-lucky pup who loves to make friends with everyone he meets. His cheerful disposition and playful nature make him a joy to be around. Whether it’s playing fetch, running around the yard, or simply spending time with his favorite humans, Bernard is always up for an adventure.

Bernard is smart and eager to please, making him a great candidate for training. He already loves playing fetch, and with some positive reinforcement and consistency, he’s sure to pick up new tricks and commands quickly. His enthusiasm and energy make training sessions fun and rewarding for both him and his new family.

If you’re looking for a happy, friendly, and playful companion, Bernard could be the perfect addition to your family. Come meet him and see if he’s the perfect match for you!

08/13/2024

EXTRA-We also want to give a shout out to Star Paving Company whose employees donated many of the backpacks shown in the van. Thank you Star Paving Company.
Albuquerque Animal Welfare's saying is AWD CARES-this caring does not stop at the pets in our care. Our Marketing Manager, Desiree Cawley coordinated a drive for school supplies here at AWD. Pictured are Mariah Harrison of CABQ Civic Engagement, Julie Buckland AWD Community Engagement Manager and APS Ingrid Hamblin loading up all the supplies for students of Albuquerque.

08/13/2024