Teller County Regional Animal Shelter (TCRAS) has been recognized by the Bureau of Animal Protection (BAP), a division of the Colorado Department of Agriculture, as the first recipient of the BAP Exemplary Service Award. This annual award honors agencies that demonstrate significant compassion, professionalism, reliability, and partnership with BAP in supporting animal welfare and cruelty investigations.
The award highlights TCRAS’s role in assisting with animal cruelty investigations and removals or surrenders. The shelter was noted for its timely support, compassionate care for animals, consistent communication, and dedication to animal welfare.
“TCRAS has been invaluable in providing compassionate care and critical support to animals from across Colorado that have been removed during neglect and cruelty investigations,” said Dr. Courtney Diehl, BAP Program Manager. “Through their dedication, professionalism and unwavering support, TCRAS has helped hundreds of animals from across the state find safety, healing and new beginnings. Their work exemplifies the collaborative spirit and high standards that this award was created to recognize.”
While TCRAS has worked with BAP over the past three years, its contributions in 2025 were particularly significant. In that year alone, TCRAS assisted with more than 15 complex cases involving companion animals by offering safe placement and rehabilitation services. In 2024, BAP investigated an animal neglect case in San Luis Valley where ten dogs and cats were found without food, water or veterinary care; TCRAS provided housing, veterinary treatment, and behavioral care for these animals.
“We are honored to receive this award,” said Kathleen Ruyak, Public Relations and Marketing Coordinator at TCRAS. “Animal Welfare is about working together to help animals who are suffering from neglect to have a safe place to go and providing hope for a new beginning without pain and suffering.”
TCRAS operates as a small rural shelter supported by donations. More information about their work can be found on their website tcrascolorado.org.
The Colorado Department of Agriculture continues to prioritize animal health and welfare as part of its multi-year strategic plan. The agency collaborates with veterinarians, shelters, rescue groups, and emergency responders throughout Colorado to maintain animal health statewide. Ongoing efforts include preparing for foreign animal diseases, tracking animal diseases through traceability programs, managing agriculture-wildlife initiatives, as well as improving welfare through programs like BAP and oversight under the Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act (PACFA).
