Animal Services

Capacity Protocols

To ensure adequate space and care for animals, these guidelines will be followed when 70% capacity is reached for either dogs or cats.

Capacity Thresholds

  • Dogs: 70% Capacity (77 of 110 kennels occupied)
  • Cats: 70% Capacity (53 of 76 condos occupied)

Protocols When Capacity Reaches 70%

The following protocols may be implemented and remain in effect until capacity improves:

  • When possible, allow the public to hold found pets for up to 48 hours while searching for the owner.
  • Encourage the use of microchip stations to help reunite pets before they come to the shelter.
  • Encourage the community to adopt, foster, volunteer, or donate to local adoption and animal care agencies.
  • Increase communication with owners to pick up their pets from the shelter as soon as possible:
    • Phone calls, text messages, emails.
  • Utilize social media messaging.
Call 311 to find resources, ask questions, and utilize Washoe County services. Learn More »
Call 311 to find resources, ask questions, and utilize Washoe County services. Learn More »