City’s Animal Welfare Department Wins 2026 Human Animal Bond Innovation Award

The Human Animal Bond Research Institute has named the City of Albuquerque Animal Welfare Department (AWD) a 2026 Human Animal Bond Innovation Award winner in the Pet-Inclusive Culture category for its Employee Pet Care Membership program. The national awards honor organizations outside the traditional pet industry that elevate the role of pets in daily life.

"People I talk to every day consider their pets more than companions; they are family," said Mayor Tim Keller. "So it’s a major priority for the City to make sure our people as well as their pets feel safe and supported."

Launched in September 2025 as the first program of its kind in the nation, the Employee Pet Care Membership benefit provides eligible City employees with low-cost pet wellness services including spay/neuter procedures, vaccinations, and preventive care. Every membership premium directly supports Albuquerque's HEART fund, expanding access to essential veterinary care for residents citywide.

“Most jobs offer health coverage for human family members, but the City knows pets feel like family too,” said AWD Director Carolyn Ortega. “This option puts Albuquerque a step ahead in providing our employees with benefits that truly help.”

Employee Pet Care 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. To date it has not only provided essential services to the pet families who work for our City but also to 700 other pet families around the community.