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Frequently Asked Questions
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Does my pet need a rabies shot?
Yes. All dogs, cats, and ferrets in New Mexico over 3 months of age are required by state law to be vaccinated against rabies every year.
Do I need a license for my pet?
Yes, if you own a dog, cat or ferret. You are required to purchase a yearly license for your pet. This is true for all dogs, cats and ferrets in the county. If you live in the unincorporated areas of the county, you should contact 314-0280 to purchase a license. County pet licenses cost $2.00 for each dog, cat, or ferret that has been spayed or neutered, and $10.00 for each dog, cat or ferret that has not been spayed or neutered (or $4.00 if you are over 62). If you live inside the city limits, call 768-1975.
What other laws apply to animals?
In our area there are different "animal ordinances" that apply to you and your animals, depending on where you live. There are different sets of laws in Albuquerque, Los Ranchos, Tijeras, Corrales, Rio Rancho, and the unincorporated areas of the County. The laws are similar, but you should be aware of what is required in your area. Contact the appropriate Animal Control agency and ask for a copy of your local animal control ordinance. Your local Zoning or Environmental Health laws might also address animals. There are also State and Federal laws that prohibit cruelty to animals, regulate livestock, and require permits and inspections for the breeding, sale, and display of some animals.
What should I do if I am bitten by an animal?
Wash the wound with soap and water and contact your doctor as soon as possible. Try to keep track of the animal, but do not try to capture it. Report the bite to our office at 314-0280. In general, dogs and cats that bite are examined and then quarantined for 10 days. Wild animals are captured and tested for rabies.
How many pets am I allowed to have?
In the unincorporated areas of the county, each household may have up to four total pets (dogs and/or cats), or up to six if all of them are spayed or neutered. Special permits are required if you want to have more dogs or cats, or if you are breeding dogs or cats.
When does my pet need to be on a leash?
All animals in the unincorporated area of the county must remain on the property of their owner secured by a fence or chain at all times, except when they are being walked on a secure leash of not more than six feet. In other words, animals are not allowed to "run at large". This applies to all animals. This means NO loose animals on sidewalks, streets, school grounds, parks, sports fields, open space land, forest land, or hiking trails.
What should I do about stray animals in my neighborhood?
Loose animals can be reported to our office at 314-0280 between the hours of 8:00am and 4:30pm, seven days a week. An officer will be dispatched to try to determine who the animal belongs to. If possible, we will capture the animal. Unfortunately, by the time we arrive the animal is usually gone. However, we can still survey the area and try to contact the owner with a warning about their pet. Stray animals that have wandered onto your property and are confined to your yard will be picked up and taken to the shelter. If loose animals are a constant problem, you can arrange to pick up a trap. These traps do not hurt the animal, but simply hold them until an officer arrives to take the animals to the shelter.
What should I do if I lose my pet?
All animals that are picked up by Animal Control Officers in Bernalillo County are taken to one of the two City of Albuquerque Animal Shelters. The East Side Shelter is on Lomas, between Wyoming and Eubank. The West Side Shelter is on Sunset Gardens, off of 114th Street and far west Central. Call 768-1975. Animals that are picked up by citizens can be taken to one of these shelters, or to the Animal Humane Association Shelter at 615 Virginia St. SE. Call 255-5523. It is always best to make a trip to each shelter every day to look for your pet. Only you can positively identify it. You can also check the deceased animal list. Check the newspapers, and consider placing an advertisement for a lost pet. Check with veterinarians in your area and the Emergency Animal Clinic to see if your pet was brought in with an injury. Keep trying. Sometimes animals turn up weeks after they are lost.
Where can I adopt a pet?
The three shelters listed in the previous section have many wonderful animals available for adoption. Make a trip to one of these locations and be prepared to fall in love. Some pet supply stores offer "adoption clinics" where animals from the shelters are brought out to be more accessible to the public. There are also smaller humane organizations that have animals in foster homes that need permanent, loving homes. These groups have regular ads in the newspaper pet listings.
If you have other questions about animals in Bernalillo County, please contact our office at 314-0280. |
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