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Emergency & Temporary Pet Care Support

Because No One Should Have to Choose Between Safety and Their Pet

If you are experiencing a crisis and need short-term care for your pet, you are not alone, and there are resources available to help. Whether you are facing housing instability, hospitalization, domestic violence, or another urgent situation, the services below are here to support you and your pet during this difficult time.

Short-Term Safe Holds

Washoe County Residents

Washoe County Regional Animal Services offers short-term, 5-day safe holds for personal pets under the following circumstances:

  • The animal’s owner was transported to the hospital due to a significant incident or accident
  • The animal’s owner is temporarily unable to provide care due to a natural or man-made disaster
  • The animal’s owner is temporarily unable to provide care due to domestic violence
  • The animal’s owner has passed away, and the pet is being reclaimed by the next of kin or an authorized designee

Important: Capacity is limited, and there are fees for these services. Please contact Washoe County Regional Animal Services directly for availability and details:

📞 (775) 353-8900

pets@washoecounty.gov

Carson City Residents

Nevada Humane Society’s Carson City Campus offers short-term, 5-day safe holds for personal pets under the following circumstances:

  • The animal’s owner was transported to the hospital due to a significant incident or accident
  • The animal’s owner is temporarily unable to provide care due to domestic violence
  • The animal’s owner has passed away, and the pet is being reclaimed by the next of kin or an authorized designee
  • The animal’s owner is incarcerated

Important: Capacity is limited, and there are fees for these services. Please contact our Carson City location for assistance carsonoffice@nevadahumanesociety.org

Pet-Friendly Shelters

Other Local Resources

Nevada Safe Camps
Safe outdoor spaces with staff support and access to basic services for individuals not wishing to enter a shelter.
📍 Line Dr., Reno, NV 89512
📞 775-329-4141 (option 4)
RegionalHomelessServices@washoecounty.gov

Nevada CARES Campus Resource Center
A day-service drop-in facility with on-site staff, partner agencies, and resources. If you are at risk of becoming homeless or unsure where to turn, this is a strong first step.
📍 600 Line Dr., Reno, NV 89512
📞 775-325-8200
RegionalHomelessServices@washoecounty.gov

Pets of the Homeless
Provides pet food, veterinary care, and connections to pet-friendly shelters nationwide.
🌐 Pets of the Homeless

RedRover Relief – Safe Escape & Safe Housing
Helps domestic violence survivors with safe housing costs and limited veterinary care for their pets.

We understand how stressful and overwhelming it can be to navigate a crisis while caring for your pet. Reaching out for help is an act of courage, and there are people and programs ready to support you. Your safety, and your pet’s safety, matter.

Pet Surrender Form

We're here to support you and your pet through this process. If surrendering is your only option, complete a surrender form and our staff will assist you with the process.

Pet Surrender Form

Still Need Help?

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