At the urgent request of the Santa Fe Animal Shelter and Helping Paws Across Borders, our 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 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.”

The shelter dogs were transported to our emergency facility 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 from our medical, behavior and shelter professionals until they can be made available for adoption.