We accomplish our lifesaving by providing quality care and finding homes for homeless pets while offering a variety of programs to benefit the public and animals. We are dependent upon donations and do not receive funding from government agencies or national animal welfare groups.
Thanks to the amazing support of the community and the hard work of our Board of Directors, dedicated staff, volunteers and partners, we have achieved dramatic results. In 2012, Washoe County was highlighted by Maddie’s Fund, honored with the Community Lifesaving Award and named one of the safest communities in the country for homeless pets, with a 95% lifesaving rate.
It is important to understand that though we pride ourselves on lifesaving, there are times when we do need to euthanize animals. NHS makes euthanasia decisions based on medical prognosis (probability of recovery with reasonable quality of life). Additionally, if a dog likely poses a risk to public safety (the dog is a danger to other animals or humans), he or she may be euthanized. These decisions are not made lightly and involve a team of managers, so it is never the decision of just one person.
NHS is proud to be engaged at the cutting edge of animal welfare. We are recognized as a leader in animal sheltering and stewardship and are considered a national model, educating shelters everywhere on lifesaving practices. NHS is a charitable, 501(c)3, non-profit organization and the Federal Tax ID is 88-0072720.
To see how NHS has made a difference in the community, view our Impact Reports:
Nevada Humane Society Reviews
Patricia Sunrise
20:14 02 Feb 20
Nice place. Clean and well lit. My heart went out to all the kitties living there. I wanted to take them all home... and give them all the love I had. But then I would be called the crazy cat lady. Smilesread more
Carissa Wilson
06:38 26 Jan 20
Got the best cat in the world from this place! Unfortunately, she came with ringworm... I knew what I was getting... myself into & they have provided free appointments to determine if she's clear. She's worth the extra effort and I don't want to think of what would happen if Harper didn't have them!read more
Kayla Denney
17:53 29 Dec 19
When we had just lost are dog we went to the Nevada Human Society to see what nice dogs they had at that time. The... workers/volunteers there were so nice and they showed us to some pretty nice dogs too. We ended up getting a dog and renaming him Hank. Hank was nice and loving to are family. He always had lots of energy but would always sit/lay down at my side when I was sad or angry. He was like my little social emotional dog and I loved that. No, we do not have Hank today but when we had him he was a wonderful awesome puppy.read more
Melanie Moore
14:51 10 Dec 19
This is the absolute best animal shelter I've ever been to. The animals were not stressed. The facility was spotless.... The staff were the most helpful and understanding bunch of people I've ever encountered especially in such a situation. I brought home not 1. But 2 pit bulls to join our family and they have settled right in.read more
E P
02:41 26 Nov 19
Doing the Job-first of all, we appreciate a man named Linc Piazzo for making this facility happen. This is a simple,... manageable and nice place. Its still busting at the seams with dogs and cats needing placement. Its organized and active in realizing its mission. They do anything and everything they can to care and place many animals and humans that need each other. I think the staff really care and really try. It is not an easy job or calling for a variety of reasons. They are dedicated and borderline heroes. This is a blessing of a place well worthy of visits, contributions and support.read more
Jennifer Skaggs
01:51 25 Nov 19
One of the best animal shelters I've ever adopted from. They sincerely want what is best for the animals and want to... make good matches. Prices are reasonable and free adoption days happen frequent enough to make adoption possible for everyone.read more
Chad Miller
00:27 19 Nov 19
Great place to adopt a new best friend, whether a dog, cat or ?????, To join your happy family. It's easy, cheep and... painless to locate one of there fury friends and then fill out the proper documents to add your newest member to the family. Please make sure you have the time and adequate space and resources to care for your new friend.read more
Candice Schellenger
10:42 16 Jan 19
I walk dogs here and love the experience. these people really care about the animals. we can always use more dog... walkers we have a really great group. I have adopted 2 dogs and a cat they are the best. great place to find a new member of the family,read more
Linda Hight
23:33 11 Jan 19
3 days ago my husband and I came in to look at some small dogs we saw on your website. There was a yorkie mix that had... just been returned by his adoptive family. Seems he was an escape artist and was peeing all over their house. Knowing this, we adopted him anyway. We have never had such an affectionate animal. He just wants to love and be loved all the time. He has a lively personality and so far is a real joy. Of course we keep him on a leash at all times outside - even in the back yard, so have had no problems with escaping. I am so glad we took a chance on him - name, Indy. Thank you all for making it happen.read more
David Furst
03:39 09 Jan 19
Rescued my dog from a person who I trusted to take care of her while I found a place to live. Big mistake. That's on... me.
I tried to find immediate care for her broken toe. I couldn't find a Vet to look at her. So I turned to the place I got her, NHS.
I went in . There was no one there, patient wise.
Only two receptionist. I explained my situation. They didn't care. No matter how much I begged. One even became snotty with me.
I'd understand if the place had a full waiting room, but no was there. When I went in and while I was there.
Humane maybe. Compassionate no.read more
Gus Cicala
06:10 28 Dec 18
The staff was very knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful. Even though it was pretty busy, they took their time with us... and helped make our big decision to adopt a dog. It is a very nice, clean facility.read more
Jeremy England
23:27 20 Nov 18
The community cats program is a blessing. I moved into a new house that had some wild cats, some partially tamed. I... loved the cat I named Lola, but she needed to be spayed and vaccinated. They were quick and friendly and helped prevent another generation of strays! Apparently she was in heat, so perfect timing. Thank you Nevada Humane Society!read more