When was the last time you got to be a hero, save a life and experience the warm gratitude that follows?
That opportunity exists every week at two local places: the Aztec Animal Shelter and the Farmington Regional Animal Shelter. Potential best friends with four legs and a tail can be found at each of these shelters, both of which are often full of dogs and cats needing a home.
Some are strays, picked up when they are found creating mischief, explained Tina Roper, Aztec’s shelter director. Others have to be surrendered by their owners for any number of reasons – an owner’s illness, an extensive move to an unsuitable location, a mismatch or other circumstances that make it necessary.
“We are generally always filled to capacity, it seems,” Roper said.
The situation is much the same at the Farmington Regional Animal Shelter, said Amber Francisco, program manager at the Farmington Regional Animal Shelter.
Both shelters check the animals when they arrive to assess health and possible injuries. They also try their best to assess the animal’s temperament to share information with potential adopters. For example, a 1-year-old Belgian Malinois may not be the best match for a committed couch potato; vice versa, an 8-year-old Shih Tzu may not be the perfect partner for a dedicated hiker or marathoner. Still, animals are individuals, and most are breed mixes, although the shelter occasionally finds purebreds needing rescue.
Both shelter directors pointed to the popularity of puppies and how quickly they are often adopted.
“Puppies seem to fly out the door,” Francisco said.
Yet, while it can be hard to resist the cute, wiggling appeal of a pup, potential adopters need to be aware of just how much work a puppy can entail. Another key point adopters often overlook is the significant behavioral changes an animal may experience during puberty (6 to 18 months).
“Adult dogs are sometimes easier,” Roper said. By the time they get to be 2 or 3, the dog has matured, and they may have been used to living in a home and may be easier to train, Francisco agreed.
“I think shelter dogs are grateful for that second chance, adult dogs especially,” Roper added.
“We used to joke about labs (Labrador retrievers). They are the cutest dogs ever, but oh my goodness, they’re just silly until they’re about 2 years old,” Roper said.
At the other end of the spectrum are senior dogs – the older ones who may move a little slower and be less energetic. They, too, still have lots of love to give.
“I love a senior dog,” Roper said. “Senior dogs make great companions, and they just want that place where they can comfortably live out their lives.”
To facilitate these matches, Aztec has a special “seniors for seniors” program. Additionally, both shelters offer discounts for special groups (seniors, veterans) and special events. Adoption rates vary between dogs and cats, and ages and sizes of the animals. Both shelters have all the information on their websites, including hours of operation.
Both shelters also have kittens and cats, but dogs make up the largest portion of their population. Cats often are left to their own devices unless they appear ill, injured or are causing a problem.
Even with all the specials, the shelters still find themselves often filled to the brim.
“As fast as they go out, new ones come in, sort of a ‘revolving door,’” Roper said.
To keep adoption top of mind and perhaps help someone spot their new best friend, the Tri-City Record will feature a “pet of the week” each Friday. This new column will feature a photo of a pet available for adoption and a brief description. Each week will alternate between the Aztec and Farmington shelters.
Both the Farmington and Aztec shelters have a wealth of valuable information on their websites, which includes costs (including specials), things to consider when adopting, shelter hours and more.
To find out more, visit aztecnm.gov/animalshelter or farmingtonnm.gov/173/Animal-Shelter.
Reach journalist Debi Tracy Olsen at debidesign@gmail.com.
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