Residents raise animal control and shelter concerns; Strayharts leadership transition noted

At the Sept. 9 Taos community workshop, residents raised concerns about roaming dog packs, dog attacks and the town’s ability to house captured animals.

Marsha Almond, a new homeowner, said she and neighbors are worried about packs of dogs and whether captured animals are vaccinated and safe. She told councilors the town’s animal control officer currently lacks a reliable shelter option for animals that are rounded up.

Mayor Maestas and staff said Strayharts (the local animal welfare organization) has undergone leadership changes: the executive director position is vacant, the organization has a new board president, and the group has hired consultant Catherine Horsey to assist through the transition. Mayor Maestas said he is meeting with Horsey and is hopeful a shelter can resume operations.

Laura Kelch, a longtime Taos County resident, described an attack on her elderly dog in Kit Carson Park. She said animal control responded, took custody of the attacking dog and returned it to its owner; she reported she and her dog required medical treatment. Council members said park employees assisted during the incident and expressed sympathy.

Councilors and staff urged residents to report dog incidents to animal control so staff can follow up; they also said the town is working with county partners and nonprofit groups to address roaming‑dog issues. No new ordinance or funding was adopted at the workshop; councilors described the matter as ongoing and encouraged volunteer and community engagement while Strayharts searches for a stable shelter solution.