Community

Hobbs Animal Adoption Center in urgent need of volunteers amid staffing shortage

Hobbs Animal Adoption Center in urgent need of volunteers amid staffing shortage

The Hobbs Animal Adoption Center (HAAC) is enduring an extreme staffing shortage and is in urgent need of volunteers to help the center with such tasks as walking the dogs housed in the facility.

On March 14, the Hobbs Police Department, in coordination with the adoption center, announced it would temporarily cease vaccinations and surgeries to pets belonging to the general public due to the staffing shortage. Those services are now strictly limited to adoptions and reclaimed animals only, according to the statement.

“We appreciate the patience and understanding from our community members as we transition into a new plan for this irreplaceable program within our city.”

The HAAC hours have changed, and are subject to change with little to no notice. The HAAC is currently closed Saturday through Sunday, and open Tuesday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from noon to 2 p.m.

“We would like the public to understand that we are not limiting adoptions from the facility, nor are we preventing owners from reclaiming their pets,” according to Hobbs officials. “All adoptions and reclaims must be scheduled via telephone by calling (575) 397-9323.”

If you or your business/organization would like to assist HAAC by volunteering, contact Captain Barrientes at (575) 397-9259. Volunteers must be 12 years of age or older.

“We appreciate the patience and understanding from our community members as we transition into a new plan for this irreplaceable program within our city,” officials said.