Help Animal Welfare Department Help Shelter Dogs

ALBUQUERQUE — Calling all dog lovers! Join the Animal Welfare Department (AWD) dog walking team. Dog walkers play a crucial role in enhancing the lives of shelters dogs, giving them exercise, socialization, mental stimulation and leash etiquette. Each of these valuable skills directly improves the dogs’ well-being and increases their chances of finding loving homes.

“AWD needs volunteers who want to donate their time to help our four-legged friends,” said Animal Welfare Department Director Carolyn Ortega. “Whether you can spare a few hours a week, a few hours a month, or you want to open your home to animals who are struggling in the shelter, there is a place for you on our volunteer team.”

AWD offers a training program for volunteers to help them care for shelter dogs. The program provides essential knowledge about dog behavior, handling techniques, and safe practices, benefiting both the volunteers and the dogs in their care. 

AWD has various opportunities for volunteer dog walkers:

• Group walks at the westside shelter on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
• Group walks at the eastside shelter on Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
• Group walks at the westside shelter on Sundays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
• Individual walks at both shelters every day; set your own schedule.

To sign up or for more details, please send an email with your contact information to [email protected]. AWD staff will then have you complete an online application to join our volunteer team.

“This is a chance for the community to step in and help a shelter pet,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Volunteering can be very rewarding, knowing you’re making a real difference in the lives of these animals and their future families.”

Who knows? You might meet your new best friend or help a pup find their perfect match. Let’s make the days brighter for these amazing dogs. Grab your leash and come join us for some tail-wagging fun!