NM K-911 provides a lifeline for animals in need

For nearly a decade, a dedicated group of volunteers has been working tirelessly to save the lives of cats and dogs in New Mexico. The NM K-911 program, operating entirely on foster homes, has become a lifeline for countless animals facing euthanasia.

Rio Rancho resident Racquel Mong, president of NM K-911, said Sandoval County, like much of New Mexico, grapples with a severe animal population crisis, exacerbated by cultural and financial factors. NM K-911 plays a crucial role in addressing this issue by rescuing animals from high-kill shelters and providing them with necessary care and rehabilitation before finding them loving homes.

"Our mission is to help companion animals who are in immediate danger," Mong said. "We rescue them, provide veterinary care, and work with them before placing them up for adoption."

Despite operating without a physical shelter, NM K-911 currently cares for approximately 60 animals, primarily cats due to the higher financial burden associated with dogs. The program, which began in 2015, relies solely on volunteers, donations, grants and adoption fees to cover its expenses.

NM K-911 is always seeking volunteers to assist with various tasks, including events, cleaning and setting up. Donations are also essential to support the program's operations and ensure that animals receive the care they need.

Donations can be made via Venmo (@NM_K-911) or PayPal (@NMK911Rescue).

“It's an important issue, and it's a never-ending issue of just finding these animals homes,” Mong said. “Currently, New Mexico has one of the worst animal population situations in the U.S. So right now, we're just trying to keep our heads above water and not drown.”

A list of animals currently in the care of NM K-911 is available at wagtopia.com/search/org?id=960623.

That list got shorter recently as NM K-911 teamed up with another shelter to help nearly a dozen animals get rescued at the Mayor’s Sunday is Funday Aug. 18. NM K-911 will also have more animals ready to be saved at the Rio Rancho’s Pooch Plunge Sept. 7 at Haynes Pool.