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Ho, Ho, Ho! Santa Claus Is Coming to the Eastside Animal Shelter

Capture memories with your child or pet by taking a free photo with Santa

When

Dec 19, 2025
10:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Where

Eastside Shelter
8920 Lomas Blvd. NE
Albuquerque, NM 87112
505-764-1164

Description

You better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout, ‘cause Santa Claus is coming to the City’s Eastside Animal Shelter.

Join the Animal Welfare Department (AWD) on Friday, December 19, from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. to capture memories with your child or devoted pet by taking a free photo with Santa. He will also hand out treats and comfort gifts to shelter pets. Everyone is welcome.

“Santa knows exactly what our pets want this year: belly rubs, squeaky toys, and loving families,” said AWD Director Carolyn Ortega. “It’s the season of giving, and there’s no better gift than a home.”

Counselors will be on hand to share insights about pets to help people make the perfect match. Adoption fee is waived, and each adoption will include spay or neuter, a microchip, pet tag, vaccinations, and one free initial vet visit. For dogs, you will receive one free session of basic dog training.            

“This is one of the most joyful events of the year,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “There’s nothing quite like seeing kids, critters, and even the Grinchiest grown-ups light up around Santa — especially when a shelter pet finds their forever home just in time for the holidays.”

Who: City of Albuquerque Animal Welfare Department
What: Free photos with Santa + pet adoptions + adoption fee waived
When: Friday, December 19 | 10:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Where: Eastside Shelter | 8920 Lomas Blvd NE  

Check out our adoptable pets.

Happy holidays from all of us at AWD — especially our shelter pets!

Contact

Desiree Cawley
505-764-1164
or
Dial 311 (505-768-2000)