Valencia County Animal Services adopts new Tuesday-Saturday public schedule

Valencia County Animal Services implemented a department-wide update to public days of operation effective January 17, 2026, shifting in-person access to Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The change standardizes availability across Animal Control, Dispatch, Coordinator Services, and Shelter Services to better meet operational needs and public demand.

Under the new schedule, the shelter will observe a standing closure every Tuesday from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. for staff meetings. That interruption affects intake windows, adoption appointments, and in-person assistance during that hour; residents planning to drop off animals, pick up pets, or pursue adoptions should schedule around the midday break to avoid delays.

The revised hours mean the facility in Los Lunas will be closed to the public on Sundays and Mondays, and outside the posted Tuesday through Saturday times. Residents who rely on in-person services for licensing, surrender, reclaim, or low-cost spay/neuter appointments should adjust plans accordingly and allow extra time on popular days such as Saturdays.

Valencia County Animal Shelter accepts donations to support both daily operations and a transport program that moves adoptable animals to partner rescues. Donations underwrite costs such as health certificates, vaccines, required tests and transport fuel. Shelter supply donations accepted include bleach, detergent, food, litter, towels, blankets, toys and collars. Donations and transport coordination are handled at Valencia County Animal Shelter, 1209 Highway 314, Los Lunas. For transport and donation arrangements call (505) 866-2479 or email ernest.rael@co.valencia.nm.us.

The shelter continues to offer a low-cost spay/neuter program and maintains volunteer opportunities including dog socializer and kennel assistant roles. A volunteer handbook, fee schedule references and directions and contact details are available from shelter staff for those interested in contributing time or seeking reduced-cost services.

For Valencia County voters and residents, the operational change is a matter of civic logistics: public access is now more predictable but concentrated into five days, which could affect working families and those without flexible schedules. The change also aims to improve internal coordination and program delivery, including transport partnerships that expand adoption options beyond the county.

Residents should plan visits during the new public hours, factor in the weekly Tuesday staff meeting closure, and consider donating or volunteering to support transport and shelter needs. Continued engagement from the community will determine how effectively the new schedule meets local demand and animal welfare goals.