Shelter Update

Updated May 28, 2026

Shelter open

We are now welcoming guided walk-throughs of the dog kennels and cat adoption area. This allows visitors to meet available adoptable pets safely while we continue recovery work in the building.

Intake Status

• Cat intake: Open
• Dog intake: Open

Facility Update

Roof repairs at Española Humane are complete; however, mold remediation has resumed, which limits our ability to allow the public into the dog and cat kennels without a staff escort. Visitors are asked to check in at the shelter lobby for important updates.

Shelter Hours

11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday–Saturday

Adoptions are currently handled with staff assistance.

Impact on Services

Adoptions & Meet-and-Greets

• Conducted with staff support
• Email inquiries welcome: [email protected]

Spay/Neuter & Vaccination Clinics Remain Open
The Española Humane Animal Clinic has moved to a separate location. It is located at 2126 El Llano Road, Ohkay Owingeh, across from the Española Airport.

• Free spay/neuter surgeries. Surgeries are scheduled for Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday. You must schedule this service online or by calling.
• Public vaccination services. Drive-through clinics are offered 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays. Wellness visits are scheduled by appointment only Monday-Friday.

How You Can Help

Foster a Pet
Short-term fostering creates immediate space for incoming animals. All supplies and medical care are provided.

Donate to Offset Costs
Donations to support ongoing repair and remediation efforts are deeply appreciated.
Visit espanolahumane.org to give.

MOLD FAQ

When was the mold discovered?
Mold testing was conducted by Beyond Testing on June 20. The results, interpreted on June 30, confirmed the presence of mold in the dog kennel area.

How old is the building?
Española Humane has operated in its current municipal-owned facility since 1992, when it took over the city animal services contract. While the exact age of the building is unknown, it has served the community for several decades.

Is the clinic affected?
No. Our clinic operates in modular units that are separate from the main facility and are owned by Española Humane. These units were not impacted.

What if I recently visited Española Humane?
Guests who visited the dog kennel area briefly are not at risk. The area is ventilated, and fans are used to help reduce exposure. Mold-related health issues typically require long-term exposure in poorly ventilated spaces. If you have questions about your health, please contact your private physician.

Are the animals in your care at risk?
No. The average stay for dogs at our shelter is just nine days, and our kennels include outdoor runs with ample ventilation. These conditions limit the likelihood of mold exposure affecting the animals.

What if I adopted a dog recently?
All animals are thoroughly examined by our veterinary team and must be healthy before they’re cleared for adoption. Mold exposure requires prolonged conditions to cause illness, which does not apply to our adoption process or kennel setup.

Are animals currently getting sick from mold?
No. All animals at Española Humane are healthy, closely monitored, and receive regular veterinary care.

What caused the mold?
We believe recent roof leaks contributed to the issue. We’re already working with contractors to repair the damage and prevent future problems.

How can the public help?
We rely on the compassion of our community. If you’re able to foster, adopt, or donate, your support will directly help animals in our care and aid in the remediation process.

Will the mold return?
Once remediation and roof repairs are complete, we do not expect mold to return. We plan to conduct regular testing to ensure the facility remains safe for animals, staff, and visitors.

What will the cleanup cost?
Final costs are still being determined. Donations from the public are greatly appreciated and will help us offset remediation expenses.