By: Harry Bailey
Supervisor, Artesia Animal Shelter

Transporting animals to shelters outside their local jurisdiction can present several challenges, including potential health risks, logistical complications, and legal concerns. Local shelters are better equipped to handle animals from their immediate area, ensuring they receive appropriate care and increasing the likelihood of successful adoption.

Health and Safety Concerns

When animals are transported across jurisdictions, they may be exposed to unfamiliar pathogens, increasing the risk of disease transmission. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, effective relocation programs carefully screen animals for infectious diseases and aggressive behavior before transport, providing necessary vaccinations and treatments to ensure the health of both the animals and the receiving community.

Logistical Challenges

Transporting animals over long distances requires significant resources, including transportation, veterinary care, and temporary housing. This can strain the receiving shelter’s capacity and divert attention from local animals in need. Additionally, the ASPCA notes that laws vary between cities, counties and states, and transporting animals without proper health certificates and vaccinations can lead to legal issues.

Harry Bailey is the Supervisor for the Artesia Animal Shelter. He can be reached at: 575-746-5043 or at hbailey@atesianm.gov

Legal and Regulatory Issues

Different jurisdictions have varying regulations regarding animal intake, health standards, and quarantine requirements. Transporting animals without adhering to these regulations can result in legal penalties and may compromise the welfare of the animals involved.

Benefits of Utilizing Local Shelters

Local shelters are familiar with the specific needs of animals in their community and are better positioned to provide appropriate care. They can also facilitate the reunification of lost pets with their owners, as local residents are more likely to visit these shelters in search of missing animals. The Richmond SPCA emphasizes that directing found animals to the appropriate local animal control facility increases the chances of reuniting them with their families.

In summary, while transporting animals to shelters outside their jurisdiction may seem like a viable option, it often introduces health, logistical, and legal challenges. Utilizing local shelters ensures that animals receive the care they need and increases the likelihood of successful outcomes for both the animals and the community. If you are missing an animal please check in with your local animal shelter and remember adopt not shop.