90 Dogs Rescued in Bloomfield

Courtesy: San Juan Co. Sheriff's Office

The rescue effort also received substantial financial support, from various donors. This outside support significantly reduced the financial impact on local resources and ensured the operation did not place a major burden on San Juan County taxpayers.

From the San Juan County Sheriff's Office

Thursday, February 5, 2026

The San Juan County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Division, in collaboration with the Bloomfield Police Department, recently coordinated the rescue of 90 dogs from a dog-hoarding situation in Bloomfield, New Mexico. The operation prioritized animal welfare, public safety, and ensuring the dogs received immediate medical care, safe shelter, and long-term placement options.

.This large-scale response required extensive coordination among law enforcement, animal welfare organizations, veterinarians, transport partners, and community supporters. Aztec Animal Shelter assisted with intake and care needs, helping to ensure the animals were stabilized and housed appropriately during the initial response.

Denkai Animal Sanctuary played a critical role in the operation by providing veterinary support, on-site handling, transport coordination, and logistical assistance. Participating Denkai team members included President Floss Blackburn, Program Manager Tierra Knuckles, Vet Tech Millie Burns, Veterinarians Lisa Bane and Victoria Robinson, and Team Member Savannah Neely.

Additional assistance was provided by Doug Kinney, who supported transportation efforts; 4 Corners Wolf Dog Rescue and Sanctuary; Carol Sanchez; and intake partners Hoof and Paw and GRRUM, who helped place the dogs into appropriate care environments.

The rescue effort also received substantial financial support, from various donors. This outside support significantly reduced the financial impact on local resources and ensured the operation did not place a major burden on San Juan County taxpayers.

.“This rescue reflects the power of collaboration between law enforcement, animal welfare partners, and the community,” said Captain Justin Rieker "Because of these partnerships, dozens of animals are now receiving the care and second chance they deserve.”

The dogs are currently undergoing medical evaluations, rehabilitation, and continued care as placement plans are finalized through partnering organizations.

More from Local News

  • Gov. to Visit Flood-Stricken San Juan County

    The governor’s visit was carefully scheduled to give first responders, law enforcement and emergency vehicles ample time to complete rescues and other emergency work during the flooding. Now that the floodwaters are receding and initial damage assessments are underway, the Governor will survey the disaster zone and work to get families the help they need. 

  • National Guard, State Police carry out rescues as historic flooding hits San Juan County

    New Mexico Governor Lujan Grisham preparing request for federal disaster declaration

  • Bloomfield: Wastewater Emergency

    Bloomfield Residents and businesses: please minimize water use until further notice. Postpone laundry and dishwasher use, keep showers brief, and reduce toilet flushing when practical and sanitary. Every reduction helps limit wastewater entering the river.

  • Kirtland Students on Remote Learning thru Thursday

    The district has worked with the Lower Valley Water Users Association on the testing needed to lift the boil water notice. Because of the number of tests required, the district has decided to keep students on remote learning as a precaution for their well-being. If test results come back early, the district must still follow processes and protocols to flush and clear the water lines at each school before in-person instruction can resume. Safety is our top priority for the well-being of our Kirtland students.

  • *UPDATE* Boil Water Advisory Lifted for Lower Valley Water Users

    Water Samples taken from the Lower Valley Water Association system have tested negative for e-coli. The Boil Water notice has been lifted for customers.

  • Woman's Husband Arrested for Kirtland Killing

    Through the course of the investigation, detectives discovered that Lauren Patterson’s husband, Jess Patterson, had previously resided in California and had been arrested at least 6 times for domestic violence in that state and had been arrested in July 2026 in New Mexico for battering Ms. Patterson. An autopsy revealed Ms. Patterson suffered multiple broken bones, bruising, and internal injuries.

On KSJE Now:

KSJE Radio App

Get the KSJE Radio App

  • Available on the App Store
  • Available on Google Play

Today's Weather

  • Farmington, NM

    Sunny

    High: 66°F | Low: 37°F

  • Durango, CO

    Sunny

    High: 61°F | Low: 30°F

  • Shiprock, NM

    Sunny

    High: 68°F | Low: 34°F

  • Cortez, CO

    Sunny

    High: 63°F | Low: 30°F

  • Santa Fe, NM

    Sunny

    High: 63°F | Low: 39°F