The Animal Control division is responsible for providing animal control services in the County. This includes enforcement of state and local laws and ordinances regarding animal welfare, impounding stray domestic animals (dogs and cats), and animal shelter operations - which consists of animal intake and release, animal care, volunteer programs and adoption of animals.
Public Safety Aides (PSA's) are available to assist citizens with animal control issues. To request a PSA please call dispatch at 662-8222. Please contact the Animal Shelter at 662-8179 if you would like information that is not provided here.
Los Alamos County Animal Control deals only with domestic animals. We are also available to assist you with other animal issues and concerns. The following is an abbreviated list of surrounding agencies that we frequently call upon:
Frequently Requested Phone Numbers |
NM Department of Game and Fish
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1-888-248-6866
505-476-8000
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Espanola Wildlife Center
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505-753-9505
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Sant Fe County Animal Control
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505-424-2050
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Santa Fe Animal Shelter
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505-983-4309
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Santa Fe Emergency Vet
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505-984-0625
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Espanola Animal Control
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505-753-4630
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Espanola Animal Shelter
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505-753-8662
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The PSA on duty is subject to respond to calls or police officers will assist. Other times by appointment: call 662-8222 or 662-8179.
Business Hours
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Sunday
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11:00 am to 5:00pm |
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Monday
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11:00 am to 5:00pm |
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Tuesday
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11:00 am to 5:00pm |
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Wednesday
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CLOSED
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Thursday
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11:00 am to 5:00pm
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Friday
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11:00 am to 5:00pm
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Saturday
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11:00 am to 5:00pm |
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Other times by appointment: call 662-8222 or 662-8179.The PSA on duty is subject to respond to calls or police officers will assist.
Roaming Animals
Police dispatch should be called for all roaming animals, barking dogs, or bites. The shelter can be called for adoptions/surrenders, lost/found, wildlife trap requests, etc.
To claim a roaming animal, the owner must provide paperwork proving current rabies vaccination and pay the capture and boarding fees. All fees are per animal, and do not include other assessments imposed by the courts.
Shelter Fees
Cats |
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$ 75 |
Less than 6 months |
$ 50 |
6 months to 7 years |
$ 35 |
Over 7 years |
Dogs |
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$100 |
Less than 6 months |
$ 75 |
6 months to 7 years |
$ 60 |
Over 7 years |
Cash or check (payable to Los Alamos County). VISA and MasterCard accepted.
Volunteer Opportunities
The Los Alamos County Animal Shelter has an extensive volunteer program. The volunteers walk dogs, socialize cats, groom and bathe animals, and foster animals that have been at the shelter for too long a period of time.
Winter Pet Safety
Tips on how to keep your pet safe and warm this winter.

Living With Large Predators
Information on encountering large predators, and what to do if you live in large predator areas. You can call New Mexico Game and Fish Department Main Office, 1 Wildlife Way, Santa Fe, NM 87507, (505) 476-8000
Animal Control Ordinance
The animal control ordinance adopted by Council 2014 (PDF document).
Voice and Sight Control Maps
Shows park areas where voice/sight control is allowed for pets
Dog Owners Guide to LA County Ordinances
What will happen if I let my dog bark? What can I do about a nuisance dog? Can I take my dog to parks or on trails? What does County Code say about dogs?
FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers regarding the Animal Shelter and animal safety.
PetFinder
Look for your next forever friend on Petfinder. They have an extensive list of dogs, cats and other pets available for adoption, not only in Los Alamos County but throughout the United States.
Trail Network Map
Shows where voice and sight control is allowed on trails (495 KB PDF document)
Contact Information
Los Alamos Police Department
Public Safety Aides
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662-8179
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