ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The Bernalillo County Animal Care and Resources Center is appealing to the community for help as it faces a shortage of essential supplies for the pets in its care. According to shelter officials, the facility is running critically low on items such as pet food, blankets, towels, and toys, which are vital for the daily care and well-being of animals housed at the center.
The Bernalillo County Animal Care and Resources Center serves as a lifeline for countless animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, and other small animals, providing shelter, medical care, and a safe environment while they await adoption. Over the years, the center has developed a reputation for compassionate care and community engagement, often relying on the generosity of local residents to maintain the resources necessary to care for the growing number of animals.
Officials at the center explained that the shortage has become particularly acute in recent weeks, partly due to an increase in the number of pets brought in by residents and animal control officers. “We are seeing more animals in need of shelter than ever before,” said a spokesperson for the shelter. “At the same time, donations of essential items have decreased, leaving us with less than we need to provide proper care.”
The list of needed items includes both basic necessities and enrichment materials. Pet food, particularly dry and canned varieties for cats and dogs, is a top priority. The shelter also requests blankets and towels, which are essential for bedding and keeping animals warm and comfortable. Toys and other enrichment items are equally important, as they help reduce stress and provide mental stimulation for the animals, particularly those that have been in the shelter for extended periods.
Community members interested in helping can bring donations directly to the shelter. The facility is located on Second Street in Albuquerque and is open for donations Monday through Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Shelter staff recommend calling ahead if you are bringing a large donation to ensure proper storage and handling.
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For those who may not be able to drop off supplies in person, the shelter has also created an Amazon wish list. This allows donors to purchase needed items online, which are then shipped directly to the center. The wish list includes a range of items tailored to the shelter’s current needs, from pet food and bedding to toys and grooming supplies. Using this online option enables community members from across the country to support the center, expanding the reach of the donation effort.
The Bernalillo County Animal Care and Resources Center relies heavily on the support of volunteers and donors to operate effectively. While staff members provide round-the-clock care for the animals, the sheer volume of pets passing through the shelter means that community support is crucial to maintaining a safe and healthy environment. Donations not only help meet immediate needs but also allow the shelter to allocate more resources toward medical care, vaccinations, and adoption programs, ultimately improving the chances for pets to find permanent homes.
Animal welfare organizations and shelters often experience fluctuations in supply levels due to seasonal factors, adoption rates, and emergencies. For example, during extreme weather conditions, more animals may require shelter, increasing demand for food, bedding, and other necessities. By stepping up to donate supplies now, community members can help ensure that the shelter is prepared to handle any sudden influx of animals.
The center also emphasizes that all donations, no matter the size, make a difference. Even small contributions of food, blankets, or toys can significantly impact the comfort and well-being of the animals. Volunteers and staff work diligently to distribute donations to the animals who need them most, ensuring that every item contributes to a safer and healthier environment.
Beyond providing basic necessities, donations also support enrichment activities that are critical for the mental and emotional health of animals in the shelter. Toys, chew items, and interactive games can reduce anxiety and help animals develop positive behaviors, which are important for successful adoption. Blankets and towels provide warmth and comfort, especially for young, elderly, or ill animals, making a tangible difference in their daily lives.
In addition to supplies, the shelter welcomes volunteers who can assist with daily operations, including feeding, cleaning, walking dogs, and socializing cats. These efforts not only improve the quality of life for the animals but also increase their chances of being adopted into permanent homes. By contributing either supplies or time, community members play an essential role in supporting the shelter’s mission to care for and protect animals in Bernalillo County.
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As the shelter faces these supply shortages, its leadership is optimistic that the community will respond generously. Past donation drives have demonstrated the strong commitment of Albuquerque residents to animal welfare, and officials hope that by highlighting the current needs, more people will step forward to help.
For anyone looking to make a donation in person, the shelter is located at Second Street, Albuquerque, and is open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Those interested in using the Amazon wish list can access it through the shelter’s website, where the most urgently needed items are listed. By contributing supplies or supporting online efforts, donors ensure that pets at the Bernalillo County Animal Care and Resources Center continue to receive the care, comfort, and attention they deserve while awaiting their forever homes.
Community involvement remains a cornerstone of the shelter’s operations, and every donation—whether a bag of pet food, a cozy blanket, or a small toy—helps maintain a safe and nurturing environment for the animals. Through these contributions, Bernalillo County residents can make a meaningful impact, directly supporting the health and happiness of animals in need.
