Pets

Bucky is a bubbly, bright-eyed beanie-bop of a 2-year-old Shepherd mix with puggle eyes and big beagle-y ears, and an even bigger heart. At just 27 pounds, he’s the perfectly petite partner: small enough for sofa snuggles, sturdy enough for sunny strolls and side-by-side adventures. Sweet, social, and full of happy wiggles, Bucky brings joy and sunshine wherever he goes. He’s past the puppy chaos but still playful, making him the just-right mix of calm and carefree. If you’re craving a compact cuddle buddy with endless enthusiasm, Bucky’s your boy! Española Humane is open to walk-in adopters Read More

Darby is one year old, 58lbs, and already at the top of her class. She’s a bright, bouncy beauty with signature rear-to-ear wiggles and a “let’s go!” attitude toward life. Loves other dogs, prefers a feline-free fan club, and is made of loyalty, smarts, and sunshine. After nearly eight weeks of training in our Paws in the Pen program with inmates at the Penitentiary of New Mexico, Darby is officially preparing for “paw-role.” And let us tell you — this girl will not just pass. She has excelled! Potty trained, crate trained, leash trained and valedictorian of her cues and manners! She’ll also head Read More

Ellie is over halfway through her training in our Paws in the Pen training program at the Penitentiary of New Mexico. She is a black beauty with brindled socks, bat ears, and a cute kiss of sunshine on her cheeks. Ellie has soft eyes and a tender heart set permanently to ‘friend mode’. She greets the world with full-body wiggles, enjoys canine company, could share space with a cat, and is happiest splitting her time between adventures and couch-side devotion. Affection is her love language. Apply on the Española Humane website to schedule a meet and greet. Española Humane is open to walk-in adopters Read More

Margot is 25 pounds of beagle brilliance. She’s a true “nose-forward” dog who lives for a good sniff and would likely excel in scent work or nose games. When she’s not busy exploring the world one smell at a time, she’s happiest being close to her people-occupying laps, handing out kisses, and soaking up all the love. She may take a minute to clock the room, then promptly prances like she owns it. Dog-friendly, cat-tolerant (will attempt unsolicited face-washing), part-time meerkat, full-time cuddle conspirator.

Meet the newest class in our Paws in the Pen program Read More

By BERNADETTE LAURITZEN
Executive Director
Champions of Youth Ambitions

Do you still need a resolution for 2026? The fun and furry friends at Santa Fe Animal Shelter would love to see you. Plus, they couldn’t do it without you.

“As we step into 2026, we’re incredibly grateful for the community members who continue to show up for animals in so many meaningful ways. That collective care inspires us to keep finding new opportunities to connect beyond Santa Fe,” said Lex Gowans, Associated Director of Marketing and Communications. “For those looking to support animals our wish lists and donations Read More

Tabitha is a 7-year-old tortie who survived the hard part and is ready for the soft landing. She came to us injured and out of options, lost her tail to save her life, and healed with quiet grit and grace. Now she’s luminous, lovely, and very much herself. She has yellow eyes like a winter moon, a nine-pound frame, and a heart that opens deeply once trust is earned. Affectionate and chatty on her terms, Tabitha loves closeness—but she’ll let you know when she’s had enough. The shelter is tough on her nerves; in a calm, patient home, she blooms into something truly tender. Tabitha has excellent litterbox Read More

Well excuse ME, mister cuteness. Honestly, it’s rude how cute Clyde is. Clyde clearly did not get the memo that ears are supposed to match. One is flopped over and speckled, doing its own artsy little thing. The other is jet black and straight up like it was carefully glued on at a 90-degree angle and never looked back. On his bright white body, it’s a statement. Add in those warm, endearing amber eyes, a smile that could flip even the worst day right side up, and you’ve got 47 pounds of perfectly portioned, fun-sized joy. Clyde is a 4-year-old Border Collie mix with just the right balance of charm, goofiness, Read More

Hot Pocket began life on the coldest edge of heartbreak—found alone in a frozen barn, barely hanging on. For a time, we didn’t know if he would survive. Our medical team warmed him gently, refused to give up, and Hot Pocket chose to stay. Once he thawed, his name—and his spirit—became obvious. He went from ice-cold to piping hot, revealing a perfectly toasted little lovebug who lives for cuddles and play. This handsome marbled kitten makes biscuits on everything—your lap, the air, maybe even imaginary friends—kneading the world with pure joy. Hot Pocket is warm, wonderful, and ready for his forever Read More

Molly is an almost-grown kitten with whispering whiskers and a heart full of gentle charm. At around 10 months old, this brown and white tabby is that perfect ‘tween age: playful enough to keep things lively, calm enough to curl up and keep you company. Molly gets along beautifully with other cats and would be a lovely addition to a multi-feline household. As for dogs, she’s undecided for now—she prefers thoughtful, slow introductions (a girl who appreciates good manners). Sweet, soft souled, and quietly affectionate, Molly has a way of making a space feel warmer just by being in it. If your home Read More