When the San Juan River burst its banks and forced evacuations across San Juan County, many families were forced to leave behind their beloved pets and livestock. In response, the City of Farmington partnered with the Farmington Regional Animal Shelter and local rafting outfit Desert River Guide to convert part of a warehouse into a temporary animal shelter.
Volunteer‑driven effort saves lives
“Every life that we can save, every animal that we can reunite with their owner, I can’t tell you how significant that is,” said Brittany Galt, the city’s director of animal welfare. Galt explained that the shelter is staffed almost entirely by volunteers who have been working around the clock since Friday, rescuing animals from floodwaters and from homes that were evacuated.
“All of these animals have been brought in, either by Good Samaritans or by individuals who have been displaced and need their fur babies to have a safe place to go for a bit,” Galt added. The volunteers provide food, water, and basic medical attention, while also coordinating with owners to arrange reunions as soon as possible.
Reunions bring hope amid chaos
Despite the exhaustion and the logistical challenges of caring for a wide range of animals—from dogs and cats to larger livestock—the team says each successful reunion makes the effort worthwhile. “It makes the tired, the headache, the chaos. It makes it worth it,” Galt said.
The shelter will remain open for as long as there is a need. “For right now, we’re here as long as there’s a need,” Galt emphasized, underscoring the community’s commitment to seeing the recovery through.
How the public can help
The temporary shelter is still in need of donations. Organizers are seeking pet food, cleaning supplies, and additional volunteers to walk and care for the dogs. Residents who wish to contribute can contact the Farmington Regional Animal Shelter directly or visit the warehouse during its operating hours.
Local businesses have already stepped up, providing blankets, bowls, and transportation for rescued animals. The partnership with Desert River Guide, a rafting company familiar with the river’s currents, has proved invaluable for safely retrieving animals from flooded areas.
Looking ahead
City officials say the shelter is a short‑term solution while longer‑term recovery plans are developed. In the meantime, the collaborative effort between municipal agencies, nonprofits, and volunteers showcases the resilience and compassion of Farmington’s citizens.
As the community rebuilds homes and infrastructure, the temporary animal shelter stands as a reminder that caring for the most vulnerable—human and animal alike—remains a top priority for Farmington’s leaders and volunteers.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
