City Strengthens HEART Ordinance to Protect Animals From Unlawful Sales

ALBUQUERQUE — Mayor Tim Keller today signed into law a major amendment to the City’s Humane and Ethical Animal Rules and Treatment (HEART) Ordinance, sponsored by District 7 City Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn, closing a critical gap in how the Animal Welfare Department (AWD) enforces unlawful animal transactions.

The updated ordinance prohibits the display, sale, giveaway, or distribution of animals in public spaces such as streets, sidewalks, parks, and other public property. It requires the immediate seizure, care, and veterinary treatment of any animals found in violation. This will ensure vulnerable animals are protected without delay.

“This amendment is about protecting animals who are often too young, unvaccinated, and at risk of disease or neglect,” said Mayor Keller. “By closing this loophole we’re not only safeguarding animal welfare, we’re promoting responsible pet ownership, preventing overpopulation, and protecting public health.”

“This is a win for our animal companions and for the health and safety of our entire community,” added Councilor Fiebelkorn. “We’re sending a clear message: Albuquerque will not tolerate the public sale of animals, and we will provide every animal in our care with the support they need to find a loving home.”

Under the revised law:

• No person may display, sell, barter, auction, or give away an animal in a public space.
• Animals found in violation will be immediately seized, spayed/neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated before release or adoption.
• If an owner does not reclaim their animal within 10 days, it will become the property of AWD.
• Violations are a petty misdemeanor, holding people accountable for unlawful actions.

“The HEART Ordinance has always been about compassion and accountability,” said AWD Director Carolyn Ortega. “Now, with this amendment, we have the clear authority to remove litters from these situations immediately and get them in compliance by spaying or neutering, vaccinating, and microchipping.”

The amendment builds on the City’s long-standing commitment to animal welfare, modernizing enforcement tools and setting a strong precedent for future policy. AWD will continue to offer free spay/neuter services for qualified low-income residents and encourage the public to adopt from shelters and reputable rescues rather than acquiring animals through unregulated transactions.

 Press conference video here.