Some changes were made at the start of the year to how Animal Protection is structured in La Plata County. While the structure has changed, one thing has not: Animals picked up by Animal Protection officers still come to La Plata County Humane Society for shelter and care.

For more than 20 years, Animal Protection officers were employed by La Plata County Humane Society using funding provided by the city of Durango and La Plata County. Beginning Jan. 1, the city of Durango and La Plata County assumed direct employment of Animal Protection officers. Officers now work alongside law enforcement agencies while continuing to provide animal protection services throughout our community. This change gives officers access to enhanced training, benefits and career development opportunities, while also providing closer coordination with police officers and sheriff’s deputies. Three officers who previously worked for LPCHS transitioned into these roles, helping ensure a seamless transition with no interruption in service.

LPCHS continues to serve as La Plata County’s open-admission animal shelter, accepting all pets brought in by Animal Protection officers, members of the public and owners surrendering their pets, regardless of age, health or behavior. So far this year, the shelter has received and cared for approximately 300 stray and impounded animals brought in by Animal Protection officers and members of the public. If you find a stray pet, witness animal cruelty or need assistance from Animal Protection, call nonemergency dispatch at 385-2900.

Be sure your dog is legal at all times. Animal Protection officers and Open Space rangers are prioritizing leash and license compliance within the city of Durango. The only area within city limits where dogs are permitted to be off leash is the Durango Dog Park at 21850 U.S. Highway 160 West. Dogs must remain on leash on all city trails and parks. To learn more, visit the “Enjoying Durango With Your Dog” section of the city of Durango website.

Within unincorporated La Plata County, dogs are not permitted to run at large. If a dog is not under its owner’s direct control, it may be picked up and impounded as a stray. All dogs in La Plata County are required by law to be current on their rabies vaccination and licensed. Residents of the city of Durango and unincorporated La Plata County can obtain a dog license through LPCHS, either in person or on our website lpchumanesociety.org. Residents of the town of Bayfield and town of Ignacio should obtain dog licenses through their respective town halls.

While the organizational structure behind Animal Protection has evolved, our community’s commitment to animal welfare remains unchanged. Animal Protection officers, local law enforcement and LPCHS continue to work closely together to protect animals and serve our community.

Colleen Dunning is executive director of La Plata County Humane Society.