ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The City of Albuquerque is stepping up efforts to curb illegal pet sales by strengthening enforcement of its animal welfare ordinance. Under the revised Humane and Ethical Animal Rules and Treatment (H.E.A.R.T) ordinance, authorities now have the authority to immediately seize puppies and kittens being unlawfully sold in public places such as streets and parking lots.
The updated ordinance, passed by the Albuquerque City Council on Monday night, gives the city’s Animal Welfare Department the ability to act without a court order when it comes to confiscating animals sold without permits. This marks a significant shift from the previous process, which required court approval before any action could be taken.
“This ordinance applies to everyone equally,” said City Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn. “Whether a person is housed or unhoused, it is illegal to sell animals in public spaces within Albuquerque.”
Originally enacted in 2006, the H.E.A.R.T ordinance aimed to control the rising population of stray and abandoned animals in the city. While the previous version prohibited selling cats and dogs without a permit on public property, it lacked provisions for immediate seizure of the animals involved. That gap has now been closed.
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According to Carolyn Ortega, Director of the Animal Welfare Department, the change significantly streamlines enforcement. “This update allows us to take swift action. We no longer need to wait on a judge’s approval to remove animals from illegal sales,” she explained.
Confiscated animals will undergo spaying or neutering, vaccination, and microchipping. Owners have up to 10 days to reclaim their pets; after that, the animals become the property of the Animal Welfare Department and may be put up for adoption.
While the department anticipates a short-term increase in the number of animals entering shelters, officials are optimistic that stronger enforcement will ultimately help reduce pet overpopulation across the city.
Individuals found breeding or selling animals without the necessary permits may face petty misdemeanor charges. In situations where pet sellers refuse to comply, the Animal Welfare Department will work alongside the Albuquerque Police Department to enforce the ordinance.
