How Lap Dog Rescue of New Mexico Is Improving Animal Welfare In Albuquerque

See that dapper little gentleman in the photo above? That's Taz and he WAS in the market for a warm and quiet home, and he found it through Lap Dog Rescue of New Mexico based in Albuquerque.

Can you believe that Lap Dog Rescue facilitates around 500 adoptions every year?! Read on to learn more about how LDRNM is saving dogs, just like Taz, daily.

What is the story behind Lap Dog Rescue? How did it come to be?

Lap Dog Rescue of New Mexico was founded in 1994 by Marie Steele out of a deep concern for the number of small companion dogs being overlooked in shelters and at risk in our community. What began as a small, grassroots effort quickly grew into a dedicated 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming small breed dogs.

"From the beginning, our mission has been not just to save lives, but to improve the quality of life for each dog we take in. Over time, we’ve built a strong network of foster homes, volunteers, and supporters who share a commitment to giving these dogs a second chance." - Brian Spence, President/Board Member

Where do the rescue dogs come from?

The dogs in the care of Lap Dog Rescue come from a variety of situations, including overcrowded municipal shelters, owner surrenders, and occasionally strays. Many of the dogs they take in are at risk due to medical needs, behavioral challenges, or simply because they don’t have the visibility larger or younger dogs might have.

"We work closely with local shelters and community members to identify dogs in need and step in when we have the resources to help." - Brian Spence, President/Board Member

Once in the care of Lap Dog Rescue, what does a dog's journey look like?

Lap Dog Rescue is a foster-based organization, meaning their dogs live in loving foster homes rather than a central facility. This allows them to better understand each dog’s personality, needs, and behavior in a real home environment, and the individualized care helps set both the dog and their future adopter up for success.

"Once a dog enters our care, they receive comprehensive veterinary care, including vaccinations, spay/neuter, and treatment for any medical issues. Many dogs also receive behavioral support or basic training as needed. Our fosters play a critical role in helping each dog decompress, heal, and prepare for adoption." - Brian Spence, President/Board Member

Two cuties adopted together through Lap Dog Rescue of New Mexico.

What does the adoption process look like?

Lap Dog Rescue's adoption process is designed to ensure the best possible match between dogs and adopters. It typically includes an application, reference checks, and a conversation to understand the adopter’s lifestyle, experience, and expectations. They also coordinate meet-and-greets in the applicant’s home so they can see how the dog interacts in their potential new environment and help ensure it’s a good fit.

"Our goal is not just placement, but lasting, successful adoptions where both the dog and the adopter thrive." - Brian Spence, President/Board Member 

Are dogs assessed for compatibility with children, other dogs large and small, cats, etc.?

Yes! Foster families observe and report on how each dog interacts with children, other dogs (both large and small), and, when possible, cats.

"Because our dogs are in foster homes, we’re able to evaluate them in real-life environments." - Brian Spence, President/Board Member 

How many active volunteers do they have and what roles do they play? Are they looking for additional volunteers?

"We currently have about 60 active volunteers who play a vital role in everything we do. Their contributions span a wide range of areas, including fostering, transportation, event support, adoption coordination, and administrative work." - Brian Spence, President/Board Member 

Like most rescues, they can always use more help—especially foster homes. Fosters are the backbone of the organization and directly enable them to save more lives. They also welcome volunteers with a variety of skills, from hands-on dog care to behind-the-scenes support.

If you're interested in applying for a volunteer position or making a donation, please visit their website.

Is there a success story that highlights the impact of their work?

"One of the most meaningful parts of rescue is seeing a dog go from hardship to a life filled with safety, care, and love." - Brian Spence, President/Board Member 

Tiny Tim is a perfect example of how Lap Dog Rescue is making a positive difference for small companion dogs in Albuquerque. Tiny Tim had been living on the streets where he suffered abuse and a broken leg. When he came into the rescue's care, he was in urgent need of both medical attention and a safe, stable environment.

Lap Dog Rescue was able to provide him with the veterinary care he needed, including surgery to repair his leg. With time, patience, and the dedication of his foster, Tiny Tim made a full recovery.

Today, he is thriving in a loving home with his foster, who has fallen in love with him and is in the process of adopting him.

"His journey is a powerful reminder of the resilience of these dogs and the impact that compassionate care can make." - Brian Spence, President/Board Member 

Tiny Tim serving as a warm and slightly weighted blanket for his German Shepherd bestie.

Looking for a lap dog companion of your own?

To inquire further about available dogs, or start an adoption application, head on over to Lap Dog Rescue.

To see other small dogs looking for forever homes, more success stories, and upcoming adoption events, you can follow Lap Dog Rescue on Facebook.

Taz, flashing the most affectionate smile one ever did see.