[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 133 (Monday, August 17, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E791]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING THE 55TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LA PLATA COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY

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                             HON. JEFF HURD

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, August 17, 2026

  Mr. HURD of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the La 
Plata County Humane Society as it celebrates 55 years of service to the 
animals and people of Southwest Colorado.
  In 1971, a group of dedicated Coloradans in Durango set out to make 
sure that every animal in need had a place to go. More than five 
decades later, that mission is still very much alive.
  The Humane Society remains the only open-admission shelter in 
Southwest Colorado--meaning they turn no animal away, regardless of 
age, condition, or circumstance. Last year alone, they cared for more 
than 3,700 animals, performed over 2,000 spay and neuter surgeries, and 
helped hundreds of families keep their pets during times of hardship.
  They are also part of the La Plata County emergency management team, 
ready to shelter pets when disaster strikes, which is a role that 
matters deeply in a district that knows how devastating wildfires can 
be.
  None of this happens without the staff, volunteers, foster families, 
and donors who have shown up year after year. They are the reason this 
organization has lasted 55 years, and the reason it will last 55 more.
  I am proud to recognize the La Plata County Humane Society and 
everyone who has made it what it is.

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