When the Santa Fe Animal Shelter announced that a three‑year‑old Great Pyrenees named Kimbo faced possible euthanasia due to behavioral concerns, the community rallied. Shelter volunteer Wade Carlson, who visits the facility regularly, saw the dog’s gentle side and advocated for a different solution.
From potential euthanasia to rehabilitation
Kimbo was originally slated to begin a 21‑day rehabilitation program in Manitou Springs, Colorado, on Monday. However, after Carlson spoke with shelter staff and learned more about the dog’s history, the plan shifted. The shelter arranged for Kimbo to start his rehabilitation at an undisclosed center in Albuquerque instead, aiming to keep the focus on his progress rather than public speculation.
“He was just this sweet, happy, loving dog,” Carlson said. “They told me there were two different Kimbos, but I only saw one. That dog was definitely worth saving.” Carlson noted that while Kimbo has triggers, his behavior appears more protective than aggressive.
Rehabilitation details and next steps
The 21‑day program in Albuquerque will address Kimbo’s specific triggers and teach him coping strategies. Carlson emphasized that the shelter chose a less public venue to avoid a flood of inquiries that could distract from the dog’s training.
“They didn’t want 100 people calling in and saying, ‘you know I had a Great Pyrenees and this is what worked for my dog,’” Carlson explained. “They wanted to remain focused on Kimbo and not get distracted on these other things.”
Upon completing the initial stint, Kimbo will require follow‑up training for at least three months. The shelter and Carlson are already fielding interest from prospective adopters and foster families, but they plan to wait for the training results before matching Kimbo with a permanent home.
Community hopes for a forever home
“We already have quite a few people who have stepped forward that are interested in adopting him or fostering him,” Carlson said. “We can’t really choose the right person until we get the results from his training. The last thing we want to do is put him in another home where it doesn’t work out.”
The story highlights how local volunteers and animal‑shelter staff can collaborate to find humane alternatives to euthanasia, reinforcing the community’s commitment to caring for vulnerable animals.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
