A roof replacement and mold remediation work forced the Española Animal Shelter to close to the public last week and suspend most animal intakes.
The shelter closed to the public on Wednesday and will remain closed through Dec. 9 because the shelter’s operating capacity will be significantly reduced during the roof and mold work, an Española Humane press release said.
In addition, intake services will also be suspended until Dec. 15, except for urgent public safety cases. Adoptions will continue but will be done digitally and meet-and-greet requests will be handled via email. Requests can be sent to contact@espanolahumane.org
The two projects are overlapping and will result in a full roof replacement over the lobby, kennels, cat adoptions, offices, staff breakroom and shelter clinic. The mold remediation is affecting the inside of the puppy pens and dog kennels.
“These construction projects are essential for the long-term safety and well-being of the animals in our care,” Kate Baldwin, the shelter’s executive director, said in the press release. “We’re grateful for the community’s understanding as we navigate these temporary but necessary disruptions.”
Though the shelter is closed and public intakes are suspended, spay and neuter and vaccination clinics will continue at the separate Española Humane Clinic. The press release said the clinic parking lot is closed during construction, but there is parking nearby.
Dogs and puppies already in care have been relocated to the remaining usable spaces or trusted boarding partners. However, help is still needed. Fostering and adopting remain critical during construction, the press release said.
“Community members can help reduce pressure on limited kennel space by fostering even briefly,” the press release said. “All supplies and veterinary care are provided.”
There will also be off-site adoptions at PetSmart in Santa Fe on Saturday and Sunday (11/29 and 11/30. And there will be a Black Friday adoption event from noon to 3 p.m. Nov. 28.
Donations are being accepted through the Española Humane website at espanolahumane.org, to help offset the costs of the mold remediation and roof repairs. Those donations will be matched through November, the press release said.
Those who feel they must surrender a pet during the temporary closure are asked to email the shelter at contact@espanolahumane.org and explain their situation and provide a good phone number at which they can be reached, Ben Swan, director of Volunteer Engagement and Strategic Initiatives at Española Humane, said via email. Staff will follow up about available options.
“We’re also coordinating closely with our city, county and pueblo partners to ensure safe placement for urgent animal intakes during this period,” he said. “We know this is a difficult time for families, and we truly appreciate the community’s patience and understanding. These repairs are essential for the health and safety of both our staff and the animals in our care, and we are working as quickly as possible to reopen.”