Red River sets rules for pets in public housing

RED RIVER, N.M. – The Red River Town Council adopted changes to its municipal housing policy May 13 establishing new rules for pets in the Golden Eagle and Elk Ridge housing complexes.

"For many years, town housing operated without a formal pet policy," said a town press release dated June 5, 2026. "The newly adopted policy established regulations regarding pet ownership, registration requirements, deposits, monthly pet rent, animal restrictions, and occupancy eligibility. We recognize that these changes may require some residents to evaluate their future housing needs and plans."

The press release goes on to list rules for pets in public housing:

- Pets are permitted only as authorized under the new policy and current applicable lease agreements

- Existing dogs residing in legacy units (old units) prior to policy adoption may qualify for grandfathered status

- Grandfathered pets must still be registered with the town and are subject to required deposits, monthly pet rent, vaccination records, licensing requirements, and compliance with all pet regulations

- Grandfathered status applies only to the specific dog currently residing in the unit and does not extend to replacement or additional pets

- New units will operate as no-pet units except for approved service animals or assistance animals as required by law

- Certain breed and weight restrictions now apply to permitted pets

A refundable deposit for approved pets is listed at $400 along with a pet rent of $35 per month and must be paid within 60 days of policy adoption.

Mayor Linda Calhoun said the issue was discussed during a publicly noticed work session on May 13 and later approved by the council.

“The work session was advertised and the agenda was posted in accordance with the Open Meetings Act,” said Mayor Calhoun. “The discussion took place in a public meeting, and the policy was approved by the council.”

Mayor Calhoun clarified that the policy distinguishes between the existing workforce housing units and the newly constructed units. Existing tenants in the legacy units who currently have approved pets will not be required to remove them immediately, but they will need to comply with the new regulations. Newly constructed units will be pet-free. Service animals and legally recognized emotional support animals are not affected by the policy and will continue to be accommodated as required by law.

“The council’s decision was based primarily on the long-term cost of maintaining the units,” said Mayor Calhoun. “Historically, apartments with pets often require significantly more repairs when a tenant moves out, including replacement of flooring, doors, and other interior finishes. Our goal is to protect these taxpayer-funded housing units, reduce maintenance costs, and keep them in good condition for future workforce residents.”

“We understand that pets are important members of many families,” Mayor Calhoun added. “This decision was not made lightly, but the council ultimately determined that a pet-free policy in the new units was the most responsible way to preserve the housing investment for the long term.”