Homeless Dogs Urgently Evacuated from New Mexico Animal Shelters as Wildfire and Flood Relief Efforts Continue

The shelter dogs were transported to an ASPCA recovery center outside of the disaster zone to free up critical space in New Mexico shelters for more animals displaced by local flooding and wildfires
July 3, 2024

SANTA FE, N.M.–At the urgent request of the Santa Fe Animal Shelter and Helping Paws Across Borders, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) disaster response team evacuated 40 homeless dogs from animal welfare organizations in Santa Fe and Sandoval counties to free up critical space and resources for animals displaced by wildfires and burn scar flooding in New Mexico.

The shelter dogs were transported to an emergency facility operated by the ASPCA outside of the disaster zone so the Santa Fe Animal Shelter and Helping Paws Across Borders could provide additional support locally for other disaster-displaced animals. All of the animals that were transported out of the impacted communities are unowned and will receive ongoing care by ASPCA medical, behavior, and shelter professionals until they can be made available for adoption. 

“The lifesaving ripple effect of moving homeless animals out of local shelters frees up much-needed space and resources that will allow local animal welfare organizations to continue supporting New Mexico’s vulnerable animals and pet owners during this difficult time,” said Kevin Pigg, ASPCA Disaster Response Manager. “Collaboration is essential during emergency situations, and the ASPCA is grateful for our partnerships with the Santa Fe Animal Shelter and Helping Paws Across Borders to ensure we can all have the greatest impact on animals in need.”

According to a survey conducted by the ASPCA, 83 percent of pet owners say they live in a community that faces disasters and one in five pet owners have evacuated their homes due to a disaster or emergency. The ASPCA encourages pet owners to include their pets in disaster preparedness plans and to always bring their pets with them if they have to evacuate. For more lifesaving disaster preparedness tips for pets, visit aspca.org/disasterprep.

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About Santa Fe Animal Shelter
Since 1939, Santa Fe Animal Shelter has been dedicated to its mission to support animals, save lives, and spread compassion. As a 501c3 nonprofit organization, we are northern New Mexico’s largest no-kill animal resource center serving Santa Fe county. Visit us online at sfhumanesociety.org.

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About the ASPCA®
Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) was the first animal welfare organization to be established in North America and today serves as the nation’s leading voice for vulnerable and victimized animals. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation with more than two million supporters nationwide, the ASPCA is committed to preventing cruelty to dogs, cats, equines, and farm animals throughout the United States. The ASPCA assists animals in need through on-the-ground disaster and cruelty interventions, behavioral rehabilitation, animal placement, legal and legislative advocacy, and the advancement of the sheltering and veterinary community through research, training, and resources. For more information, visit www.ASPCA.org, and follow the ASPCA on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

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