City Launches First-Ever Employee Pet Care Membership
On September 1, Albuquerque launches the U.S.’s first city-run “Employee Pet Care Membership,” offering staff affordable preventive pet care while funding community HEART ordinance initiatives.
ALBUQUERQUE — The City of Albuquerque introduces a groundbreaking staff benefit: “Employee Pet Care Membership,” an affordable, voluntary option for City employees. Membership covers vital services such as spay and neuter procedures, vaccinations, and annual wellness exams, with dues reinvested into the City’s HEART fund to expand access to preventive care for Albuquerque’s broader pet-owning community.
Designed to support the well-being of employee pets while advancing the City’s HEART ordinance, this is the first-known initiative of its kind in the U.S. offered by a city-run animal shelter. The innovative program, managed by the Animal Welfare Department (AWD), officially begins September 1.
“Albuquerque always leads with heart,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “With the launch of Pet Care Membership, we’re making sure our employees and their animals are taken care of. It’s a win for our workforce, for pets, and for the values we stand by as a city.”
“Employers often provide medical benefits to families, but the City recognizes that pets are part of the family too,” said Deputy Director of Human Resources Todd McDowell. “By offering this voluntary membership, Albuquerque becomes a leader in redefining what benefits can mean for today’s workforce.”
Membership is voluntary, open only to current City of Albuquerque employees, and requires a one-year commitment. The membership runs from September 1 to August 31 annually.
“This program truly puts the HEART ordinance into action,” said AWD Director Carolyn Ortega. “It reflects our mission to promote responsible pet ownership, expand access to care, and support the well-being of animals citywide by starting with the pets in our own City family.”
The program not only makes pet care easier for employees but also helps fund services for low- to moderate-income pet owners across Albuquerque, ensuring that every dollar contributes to building a more compassionate and animal-friendly community.
Albuquerque residents with low or moderate incomes can apply for preventive pet-care services by visiting here.