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

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.

###

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.