Trap, Neuter and Return (TNR) Program
TNR - the Overpopulation Solution for At-Large Cats and Dogs
Feral cats and dogs roam almost all areas of our communities. Feral dogs can seriously harm or kill livestock, pets and sadly, even people. When feral animals have homeless litters, the cruel reality is that their offspring either live short miserable lives of suffering and starvation or survive to create more litters of homeless animals. But at-large animal reproduction also causes a significant economic burden. Our 2026 study, "Investing In Spay/Neuter", calculated that just one single litter of four dogs and one single litter of four cats will cost the community at least $100,000 over 10 years.
TNR (Trap, Neuter, and Return) is a community outreach program supporting the animal care efforts of individuals with outdoor cat/dog populations. It is the humane option for preventing at-large animal reproduction. The animals are trapped humanely and transported to a veterinary clinic for an examination, spay/neuter, vaccinations and a tattoo or ear-notch indicating the animal has been fixed. The animals, after recovering from surgery, are returned to their outdoor homes, retaining their freedom in their familiar territory without the risks of reproduction. The trappers are usually residents who provide food and water to the homeless animals, but can also be animal welfare or control groups.
There are two local clinics in the Taos area offering free spay/neuter services, including TNR: Spay Taos in El Prado, NM (Phone: 575-240-8549) and Espanola Humane in Espanola, NM (Phone: 505-753-8662 ext. 200). Other vet clinics will provide TNR spay/neuter for a fee. The two clinics listed here do not require appointments for TNR cats but there are limits on the numbers that can be brought in per day and other clinic-specific rules so we recommend contacting them before commencing TNR. In general, TNR animals must arrive at the vet clinic in secure humane traps or crates.
Safety is imperative when handling feral cats or dogs. Even seemingly friendly, ‘touchable’ feral cats can panic and cause serious harm when suddenly grabbed and forced into a carrier. Feral dogs, wary of people and unaccustomed to confinement, can react aggressively at any time. Do not attempt to grab any feral animal. Always use humane traps to secure the animal safely. Clinics typically lend out traps for free. If you need a trap and your clinic cannot provide one, Taos Feral Feline Friends (Phone: 575-758-3519) can lend you one at no cost.
Low Income Cat Food Assistance
If your household annual income is below $60,000, we offer free cat food for anyone in Taos County caring for feral cats. The same benefits are also available on a limited basis for any low income cat owner who, due to injury, illness, disability or loss of employment, is unable to afford cat food. To qualify, you must be or become an active participant in TNR unless all your cats are already fixed. Call 575-758-3519 for more information.