Partnership with Nevada Humane Society (NHS)
In 2002, voters in Washoe County approved a referendum to fund the construction of a new Regional Animal Services facility. This initiative was supported through a 30-year bond, financed by a 3% property tax increase. As a result of this measure, the animal service departments from the cities of Reno and Sparks consolidated with Washoe County to form a unified agency known as Washoe County Regional Animal Services (WCRAS).
A key element of the referendum was the establishment of a partnership with Nevada Humane Society (NHS). Under these agreements (Professional Service Agreement "PSA" and lease agreements 2003; 2009; 2011), NHS would provide adoption services of the unclaimed animals at WCRAS and accept owner-surrendered animals from Washoe County residents in exchange for 58% leased space at the Washoe County Regional Animal Services campus. The regional center construction was completed in 2006 and totaled $16.9 million dollars. NHS contributed $4.125 million towards the cost and maintains 58% responsibility of utility and maintenance costs of the center.
Today, WCRAS and NHS operate from the same 60,000 square foot facility, though each organization remains a separate entity with distinct funding sources and operational missions.
Partnership Overview
Shared Facility
By co-locating within the same facility, both WCRAS and NHS are able to share costs and resources, which aims to enhance service delivery to the community.
WCRAS Focus
Public safety, animal protection, field services, disaster response, and outreach collaborations.
NHS Focus
Animal adoptions, pet surrenders, foster programs, and a Help Desk for pet-related questions and resources.
Working Together
WCRAS and NHS serve the animals and people of Washoe County with compassion, professionalism, and a commitment to provide the best possible outcomes for animals in our community. Together, we maintain a high live-release success rate while ensuring that both public safety and animal welfare remain top priorities.
Transfer and First Right of Refusal Goals
Through the nature of the partnership, WCRAS does not have an adoption program. Instead, as outlined within the PSA, NHS provides adoption services for unclaimed animals at WCRAS after their stray hold has expired. NHS has first right of refusal within 24 hours before animals are offered to other transfer partners.
In 2024, working agreements were refined to include clearer expectations related to transfer metrics and criteria. NHS aims to transfer 80%+ of dogs and 85%+ of cats made available by WCRAS. Both entities strive for 90% live-release of adoptable animals.
View the latest WCRAS–NHS transfer metrics (updated monthly).
Shared Dog Behavior Criteria
At WCRAS and NHS, our top priority is the safety and well-being of both animals and people. Our shared Behavior Policy safeguards the community based on historical behavior of each animal using industry best practices and available data.
Behavior consultants from both NHS and WCRAS collaborated in 2024 to develop a Shared Behavior Protocol document guiding pathway planning and determining whether a dog will be made available for transfer or adoption. Dogs that exhibit dangerous levels of aggressive behavior toward humans or other animals will not be made available for adoption or rescue.
Together, we strive to support a safe, pet-friendly community. Your support helps us maintain high standards while balancing community safety. Thank you for being part of our commitment.