Pet-population warriors face eviction

ROSWELL, N.M. (KRQE-KBIM) - The clock is ticking for a Roswell animal clinic in danger of losing its building after years of working to reduce the number of unwanted cats and dogs in the area.

Animal Welfare Alliance, which spays and neuters hundreds of animals a year, said it's turning to the public for help in purchasing the building it has leased for years on East McGaffey Street.

The building is perfect for their growing needs but it is up for sale, AWA President Jo McInerney. AWA needs to raise $15,000 for the down payment or face trying to find new quarters and the possibility of shutting down, she said.

So far the group has raised $4,000 with the rest needed by an October deadline, McInerney added.

Each year more than 4,000 dogs and cats are euthanized in Roswell. AWA was formed in 2001 to reduce the number of unwanted animals by offering low-cost spaying and neutering.

Last year the clinic performed 790 surgeries.

"If you continue down that path it takes about another 5 years until you're to the point where all you are euthanizing are ill and injured animals and vicious animals," McInerney said. "That is where we want to be."

Euthanizing unwanted dogs and cats is not only cruel, it is expensive, costing the city of Roswell close to $200,000 a year, she added.

Anyone wishing to assist the Animal Welfare Alliance can contact the group at (575) 317-7439.