Southwest Life


Local support is essential for dog rescue

The Four Corners is unique in so many ways, and animal welfare is no exception. With an abundance of open spaces, a 5-acre dog park, dog-friendly businesses, remote work options and devoted ...

It’s important – and required – to license your dog

Did you know all La Plata County residents are required by law to license their dog(s) and keep this license current? Dog licensing provides proof of ownership, helps ensure dog owners are v...

The crucial role of planned giving in nurturing nonprofit sustainability

What legacy will you leave? Currently, the baby boomers are passing down more than $53 trillion to their heirs, marking one of the most significant transfers of generational wealth in histor...

Puppy socialization is essential

It’s puppy season! There are many pups available for adoption at your local shelter. After making the decision to adopt, the work of raising a pup begins. Puppies, like babies, need your gui...

Fewer dog transfers happening between organizations

Shelter Animals Count, the most trusted and current source for animal sheltering data, notes a concerning trend in its Q2 data, which shows a decrease in transfers of animals between shelter...

Working with anxious, shy and nervous dogs

It is said that confidence comes from a feeling of well-being, acceptance of yourself and a belief in your own ability. If we’re lacking in confidence, some of the ways that we restore it ar...

Recent animal shelter data shows significant increase in stray dog intake

La Plata County Humane Society offers tips to keep pets home safe

La Plata County Humane Society provides TNR services to community

Trap-neuter-return, or TNR, consists of the capture, sterilization and release of feral cats. La Plata County Humane Society’s TNR program is free to all residents of La Plata County. Feral...

Shop for a cause

Thrift shopping is sustainable, but did you know that local thrift stores also help support the greater good of the Durango area? When making a purchase at a local thrift store, your money i...

Exactly why should we spay or neuter our pets?

February is recognized as spay and neuter month; the last Tuesday of the month is considered World Spay Day. As pet owners, we often hear about the importance of spaying or neutering our pe...

Winter games a great way to keep your dog’s brain busy

UGH! It’s winter – shorter, colder days and less time to play outside with your pup. Consider these exercises to help you and your pup get through the cold winter and gain new skills in the ...

Canine distemper: What is it, what does it do and how can you protect your pet?

Over the past couple of years, we’ve all been learning about viruses and what we can do to keep ourselves safe. It’s no different for our pets. Our pets are exposed to viruses, too, some of ...