TCRAS receives inaugural Bureau of Animal Protection Exemplary Service Award

The Teller County Regional Animal Shelter (TCRAS) was named recipient of the inaugural Bureau of Animal Protection Exemplary Service Award, recognized for its assistance in animal cruelty investigations and care for animals removed or surrendered.

The Teller County Regional Animal Shelter was selected as the recipient of the inaugural Bureau of Animal Protection Exemplary Service Award. The award highlights the shelter's role in assisting with animal cruelty investigations and in housing and caring for animals removed or surrendered. Bureau of Animal Protection officials noted TCRAS's timely support, compassionate care, and consistent communication. TCRAS is a small, rural shelter supported by donations. Key reported facts: - The Teller County Regional Animal Shelter (TCRAS) was named the recipient of the inaugural Bureau of Animal Protection Exemplary Service Award. - The Bureau cited TCRAS's assistance during animal cruelty investigations, reliable and timely support, compassionate animal care, and follow-through communication. - BAP Program Manager Dr. Courtney Diehl reported that TCRAS has helped hundreds of animals removed during neglect and cruelty investigations. - In 2025 TCRAS assisted with more than 15 complex companion-animal cases by providing placement, rehabilitation, and care. - In 2024 a San Luis Valley neglect investigation led to the removal of ten dogs and cats; TCRAS assisted with housing, veterinary care, and behavior support. - TCRAS is described as a small, rural shelter supported by donations and maintains a website at tcrascolorado.org. Summary: The award recognizes TCRAS's collaborative role in supporting Bureau of Animal Protection investigations and in caring for animals removed from neglect or cruelty. It reflects the shelter's recent work on multiple complex cases and its involvement in the 2024 San Luis Valley removal. Undetermined at this time.