Meet the Team

Hi! I'm Jerleen Bryant, Chief Executive Officer here at Nevada Humane Society. I've dedicated over two decades to nonprofit animal welfare, driven by my personal passion for ensuring every furry companion gets the love and care they deserve.

As CEO of Nevada Humane Society, I have the honor and privilege of leading our dedicated team of 120 employees who are working tirelessly to implement data-driven decision-making, industry best practices, and compassion to care for pets, find them homes and save almost 10,000 lives annually.

Before joining NHS, I had the incredible opportunity to lead the Maui Humane Society. There, alongside a team of 65 full-time employees and over 350 volunteers, we achieved remarkable results. We decreased our annual intake from 11,000 to approximately 6,000 through progressive policy changes and providing access to affordable spay and neuter for owned pets. We also increased the live release rate for dogs from 65% to an incredible 98% and for cats from a heartbreaking 20% to almost 90%. Prior to that, I spent over 15 years training dogs and competing around the country with them, while also running a foster based dog rescue, so I've got a knack for understanding our four-legged companions like no other. This isn't just a job; it's my passion.

When I'm not leading our mission at NHS, you'll find me enjoying time with my furry direct reports— Libby, Brody, and Hugo. On the weekends you can find me enjoying family gatherings with my husband, our sons, their wives, and our 5 grandchildren or hitting the trail on my mountain bike or the pickleball court with friends.

Greetings! I'm Trent Bingham, Chief Operations Officer at Nevada Humane Society. My passion for animal welfare runs deep—I'm all about inspiring our team to uphold top-notch standards across our campuses and communities. Together, we're all about making sure every single animal feels valued and cared for.

Before joining NHS, I  spent my time in full-stack web development in the credit union scene. But my heart was always with our furry friends—I've logged countless hours fostering and volunteering with humane societies. When the chance came to blend my logistical know-how with my love for animals, I pounced!

Animal welfare isn't just a job for me—it's my life's mission. Every decision I make is guided by my unwavering belief in the worth of every creature under our roof. Witnessing the magic of the human-animal bond reminds me daily why we do what we do.

Hello! I'm Melissa Davis, Chief Philanthropy Officer at NHS, bringing over 15 years of fundraising mojo from both the political and non-profit worlds. My mission? To craft strategies that not only secure crucial funds but also get tails wagging to help pets in need!

I joined NHS in 2023, adding my dynamic fundraising flair from Carson Tahoe Health, Veterans Guest House, and Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern Nevada. I've got a knack for connecting passionate donors with impactful projects, having raised over $22.5 million. Plus, I proudly sport my Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) certification, earned after double majoring in Political Science and Speech Communications at the University of Nevada, Reno.

Being at NHS isn't just a job; it's a calling that combines my career expertise with my deep love for animals. I find immense meaning in helping pets find their forever homes and ensuring they receive the care they deserve.

As a native of Reno, my early fundraising journey took me across 10 states and 13 cities in two years, igniting my passion for nonprofit work. I boomeranged back to my beloved Reno-Tahoe in 2015. Surrounded by majestic mountains and sagebrush, Home (Truly) Means Nevada to me.

When I'm not rallying support for NHS, you’ll catch me cheering for Nevada football, globe-trotting with my mom, or enjoying cozy nights with my husband, Randy, our sassy Pomsky, Olive, and cute (NHS Alumi) kitten, Martini.

Hi! I'm Phil Neff, the numbers whiz and animal enthusiast at NHS. As the Chief Financial Officer, I make sure all our financial gears are turning smoothly. From balancing the books to fostering strong banking relationships, I'm here to keep things shipshape.

My journey? It all started with a BS in Accounting from Arizona State University, followed by six adventure-filled years at Deloitte. Since then, I've been a guiding force in finance and accounting across various manufacturing and wholesaling companies. Proudly sporting my CPA license in Nevada, I bring both expertise and a passion for numbers to the table.

Beyond spreadsheets and audits, my heart beats for animals. You'll often find me surrounded by furry friends—I can't resist their charm. That's why when the opportunity to join NHS came knocking, I leaped at the chance. It's more than a job; it's a mission that resonates deeply with me.

Outside the office, I've called Reno home for 32 years, where I share my space with two fantastic kids who are proudly UNR students, a lovable 110 lb. chocolate lab named Murphy, and a mischievous cat named Boo.

Hey there! I'm Kylene Daschofsky, Medical Director here at Nevada Humane Society (NHS). My role is a true labor of love, overseeing all veterinary operations across NHS and our Carson City branch. From strategic planning to day-to-day medical and surgical care. On top of all that, I continue to work alongside our amazing staff performing surgeries and providing medical care to the pets in our care. I ensure that every furry patient receives top-notch treatment in a positive environment.

My journey into veterinary medicine started at Washington State University, where I earned dual Bachelor's degrees in Neuroscience and Clinical Psychology before completing my Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. Following that, I deepened my expertise with a Shelter Medicine Specialty Internship at San Diego Humane Society and became licensed to practice here in Nevada. My commitment to fear-free practices underscores every procedure I oversee.

With over a decade in animal shelters, my passion for animal welfare runs deep. At NHS, I don't just see it as a job; it's my chance to make a meaningful difference in countless lives. Yes, it's demanding, but the rewards of seeing animals thrive and find loving homes make it all worthwhile.

On a personal note, my home is a lively sanctuary for NHS alumni—Jax the dog, Tiki Bean the cat, and Chester the guinea pig. When I'm not championing animal care, you'll find me soaking up the serene beauty of Lake Tahoe—whether hiking, paddleboarding, or simply lounging on the beach. And on my downtime, I love nothing more than unwinding with my pets and significant other, indulging in games and guilty pleasure TV shows.

Hiya! I'm Clay, your go-to guy as Director of Carson Services here at NHS. My passion? Ensuring every furry friend in Carson City gets the love and care they deserve!

I've been with NHS since 2017, starting as an adoption supervisor at the Reno Campus before making my mark in Carson City in 2019 as assistant manager. In December 2020, I proudly stepped into the role of Director of Carson Services. Along the way, I've completed rigorous training in Animal Control and Dispatch through the National Animal Control Association, ensuring I'm equipped to handle every situation with professionalism and care.

My commitment to our community runs deep—I'm a graduate of the Carson City Leadership Program and received a Certificate of Recognition from the Lt. Governor’s Office in 2023 for my contributions to the community. At NHS, I'm privileged to bridge the gap between animals and their human companions, fostering bonds that last a lifetime.

Born and raised in Reno, I'm a true Nevadan at heart. Despite traveling far and wide—from exploring Europe and China to soaking in the sights of Southeast Asia—Northern Nevada has always been home. When I'm not championing animal welfare, you'll find me soaking up precious moments with my family, including my loyal companion Mojo, a dog who's stolen my heart, painting, and trying to prevent my grass from drying up in desert heat.

Hi! I’m Tatum Sutliff, Client Services Director at Nevada Humane Society! My role revolves around overseeing our dedicated Client Services Team, who handle everything from Animal Adoptions to Animal Surrenders and our Animal Help Desk. My team plays a pivotal role in making this mission possible by actively supporting and assisting members of our community.  They're truly the heart of our organization, committed to delivering top-notch customer service.

I joined NHS back in October 2022 as Adoptions Manager and quickly rose to my current role. With a double major in Sociology and Psychology from the University of Nevada Reno, my passion for customer service blossomed during my college days, where I learned how important a positive and helpful attitude can make or break a customer’s experience. Post-graduation, I delved into managing volunteers at Renown Health, as the Pet Therapy Manager, managing 300 volunteers and their furry companions. It was there I witnessed firsthand the profound impact animals have on people's lives, especially during tough times.

Nevada Humane Society has allowed my work experience and passions to flourish. I love helping people and animals and have found immense gratitude being part of a team that works so hard to ensure we are not only helping animals, but our community as well.  

When I'm not wrangling clients, staff and animals at NHS, you will find me spending time with my 3 dogs, Hank, Bevin and Pancho, and Cat, Marcel, tending to my many plants, riding my motorcycle, thrifting, or enjoying all the watering holes the region has to offer.

Hi there, I’m Dr. Fitz and I am so excited to be the Director of Nevada Humane Society’s Department of Community Medicine & Surgery. My team is tiny but mighty. We work in collaboration with other departments, animal welfare organizations, community cat caregivers, and pet owners. This department is focused on providing accessible spay/neuter and preventative care services to help keep pets healthy and with the families who love them.

I have been passionate about animals my whole life with many pets including dogs, cats, chickens, goats and horses. I started volunteering at a humane society in 2001 during college. This made a huge impact on me and my understanding of the pet overpopulation problem and how difficult it can be to keep pet families together. I graduated from Oregon State University, College of Veterinary Medicine in 2008. I have worked across the country in different roles, but my work in providing accessible veterinary options and spay and neuter services is what I am most proud of.

I moved to Reno in 2025 to launch the Community Medicine & Surgery Department. I share my life with Keeva the cat, and amazing dogs Hamster, Sprout and Beans. In my spare time I love to knit, read and cook, all with at least a few animals around. I look forward to exploring the Reno area and getting to know all that it offers.

Hey there! I’m Lynzie Bacsa, your go-to Assistant Manager at the NHS Clinic. I’ve been part of this fantastic crew since 2018, and let me tell you, it’s been a wild ride! After a year on board, I discovered my passion for shelter veterinary medicine. Alongside managing duties, you’ll often find me elbow-deep in medical treatments and surgical wizardry as a Veterinary Assistant. My mission? To lead our team in giving top-notch care to our furry friends, both in our shelter and across the community.

Licensed as a Euthanasia Technician and Fear Free Certified, I’m all about ensuring our animals receive the best care possible. Working here at NHS isn’t just a job; it’s a calling that fills me with purpose every single day. The learning curve is exhilarating, but the real reward lies in being a voice for those who can’t speak for themselves.

When I’m not at NHS, I’m soaking up family time with my husband and daughter. We’re nature enthusiasts, so catch us exploring trails or chilling by the water when the sun’s out. I stay connected to my Hawaiian roots through hula dancing and brushing up on my 'Olelo Hawai'i. Oh, and at home, I’m outnumbered by our furry squad: Kai and Koa, our dogs, and Kollie and Akumal, our cats.

Hello, I’m Katie Byrne, Retail Manager here at Nevada Humane Society.  I am passionate about helping animals find loving homes and creating a welcoming environment for our community. Every day, I strive to make a difference by supporting our mission through our retail operations, providing products that benefit both pets and their owners. My love for animals drives me to ensure that every furry friend we care for gets a chance at a happy, fulfilling life.

I joined the Nevada Humane Society in 2024 and am thrilled to be a part of this amazing team dedicated to supporting animals in need. With a passion for both retail and animal welfare, I’m excited to help create a shopping experience that not only delights customers but also helps fund lifesaving programs. I look forward to contributing to the mission of NHS by caring for pets, finding loving homes, and saving lives!

I have lived in Reno most of my life and am proud to call the Silver State my home with its plethora of mountains, lakes and natural beauty to explore.  When I am not at work I love to go camping with my husband of 16 years and my two fun-loving boys or get cozy and curl up with a good book.  At home, I’m kept busy by my own furry (and scaly!) family—two playful Labrador Retrievers, Hefeweizen and Dunkelweizen, a feisty Miniature Pinscher, Fern, a mysterious black cat, Mavis, and a chill leopard gecko, Coconut. My love for animals extends beyond work, and I’m dedicated to ensuring every pet finds an adoring family.

Hi! I’m Kaitlyn Decker, though most people know me as Katie. My love for animals started with horses and quickly grew to include all kinds of furry friends, inspiring me to build my own little furry family. I’m lucky to share my life with 2 horses, Babe and Thor, 3 dogs—Lilly, Sophia, and Foxy—and 3 cats: Midnight, Aoba, and Mylo, my tripod kiddo. When I’m not working or taking care of my animals, I enjoy reading, playing video games, and spending time with family and friends.

My journey in animal welfare began in 2021, and in that time, I’ve found my passion for working with animals grow even stronger. I had the opportunity to attend National K-9, a professional dog training school in Columbus, Ohio, which helped me develop the skills I use today. Now, I’m proud to serve as one of the Assistant Managers of the Dog Team here at Nevada Humane Society. Together with our amazing staff, I work to care for our incredible dogs as they wait for their forever homes. Helping these wonderful pups on their journey to loving families is truly the most rewarding experience!

Howdy! I'm Brittney Fallon, Clinic Manager here at Nevada Humane Society (NHS). My role is all about ensuring our clinic runs like a well-oiled machine, overseeing the staff, and making sure every pet receives top-notch treatment.

With over 15 years of experience as a Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) with an Associate's degree in Veterinary Technology, I bring a wealth of expertise to our team. I'm passionate about patient care and empowering our staff to reach their full potential.

At NHS, I'm privileged to be the voice for the voiceless, advocating for animals who need our help the most. Whether it's coordinating treatments, supporting our incredible team, or fostering a compassionate environment, every day is a chance to make a difference.

On a personal note, I hail from Louisiana—a place close to my heart, especially when it comes to whipping up delicious Cajun cuisine. Outside of work, I cherish my role as a wife of 17 years and a proud mother of three, alongside our furry family members—two dogs and two cats. With their boundless energy and strong sense of loyalty, I definitely embrace the spirited traits that define huskies, both in and out of the clinic.

Hey there! 

My name is Ivor Harvey and I'm one of the Dog Team Assistant Managers at Nevada Humane Society! While at work you can catch me running visits, taking dogs to the yard, cleaning kennels, and leading a group of motivated individuals to care for the animals in our custody. My top priority is giving the best care for the animals while they're here and helping match them with the perfect adopters. If you can't find me, just follow the singing you hear throughout the halls!

I'm new to the Animal Welfare field, but started my journey with Nevada Humane Society in May of 2023. Having a bachelor's degree in journalism and an associate's degree in graphic design, I decided in early 2023 that I needed to find a career path that felt more fulfilling and brought more purpose to my life. I found that here! I have been able to grow and learn in this position which has allowed me to get a better understanding of dogs and their behaviors in the shelter environment.

If I'm not at work (or pet sitting for shelter staff) you can definitely find me cooking up recipes I found online or doing some sort of outdoor activity. Growing up with a dad who is a fish and wildlife biologist, I spent a lot of my childhood outside hiking, backpacking, and enjoying nature. This is still true today! Nevada is one of the lucky states that experiences all four seasons, and I'm here to take advantage of that!

Greetings! I’m Cherry Hastings, your go-to Cat Team Manager at Nevada Humane Society! I make sure our whiskered friends get all the love they deserve. From adoptions to cozy shelter setups, I’m on a mission to find every cat and small animal their purr-fect match.

Before diving into the world of adorable furballs, I spent 30 years as a surgical nurse, patching up humans with the same compassion I now pour into our fluffy residents. Retirement brought me here, and let me tell you, it’s been an adventure!

I joined NHS in 2016, and have been leading the amazing and dynamic cat team since 2020. I strive to ensure every meow and tail wag gets the spotlight it deserves. Plus, I’m Fear Free Certified, so you know your fur babies are in safe paws.

Personally, I’ve welcomed two mischievous orange cats into my home thanks to NHS—let’s just say, they keep me on my toes, just like the internet memes promise! When I’m not matching whiskers with new families, you can find me daydreaming about sailing—something I got hooked on during the two years I lived in St. Thomas with my late husband, Dr. Chris Hastings.

Hey There! I'm Sheilah Knight, your friendly Community Programs Manager here at NHS. My days are filled with managing our Pet Food Pantry, Working Cat, and Trap-Neuter-Return programs, along with overseeing our Community Caretaker Registration in Washoe County. These programs are the heartbeat of our community, keeping families together and pets out of shelters where they belong!

With over 40 years of management experience, including a long stint as CEO of a direct mail advertising business in Las Vegas, I bring a wealth of leadership to our furry friends. My passion for animal welfare sparked about 5 years ago when I made the leap to join NHS – and let me tell you, it's been the best decision of my life!

Back in my previous job, I'd spend my lunch breaks at NHS, hanging out with our dogs, just to put a smile on my face for the rest of the day. Now, I get to work every day with incredible coworkers and the most adorable animals – what's not to love?

When I'm not at NHS, you'll find me at home with my husband, Art, and our three beloved NHS rescue dogs: Wrigley Field, Yogi Berra, and Jackie Robinson. Together, we juggle a woodworking business and enjoy showcasing our creations at craft shows throughout the year.

Hello! I'm Holly, and I couldn't be more thrilled to be serving as the Assistant Manager of the Reno Cat Team here at NHS. My role is all about supporting our incredible Cat Team and ensuring our furry friends receive top-notch care and the purr-fect amount of attention.

I've been deeply involved in animal welfare for over 5 years now, initially focusing on dogs. As a certified dog groomer, adoption counselor, and intake coordinator, I learned the ropes and found my passion. But my journey took a delightful turn when I delved into the world of cats, becoming a foster coordinator, and embraced the wonderful world of Fear Free and other educational programs to deepen my understanding of feline behavior and care.

My love for animals runs deep – it's a passion that started early on. Even as a teenager, I spent time volunteering here at NHS with my mum, and that experience shaped my path to working here. Now, I get to wake up every day knowing I'm making a difference in the lives of these amazing creatures.

Born and raised in Northern Nevada, this place holds a special spot in my heart. When I'm not busy at the Reno Campus, you'll find me out in nature, exploring the desert or hiking through the trees. Weekends are for camping trips under the stars or casting a line in a tranquil fishing spot. At home, you’ll always find me with my two cherished cats (and Proud NHS alumni), Venus and Cicero, by my side.

Hi! I'm Christina Mitchell—though everyone calls me Tina! As the Carson City Clinic Manager and a Licensed Veterinary Technician at NHS, my days are all about ensuring top-notch veterinary care and creating positive experiences for our clients and their beloved pets.

With 28 years under my belt as an LVT, I've cared for critters of all shapes and sizes, from the tiniest mouse to majestic giraffes. One of my fondest memories? Bonding with an orangutan at the Phoenix Zoo—it was truly unforgettable! My journey started at the Long Medical Institute in Phoenix, AZ, where I honed my skills before bringing my expertise to Nevada with my LVT license in hand.

My passion for shelter work ignited back in the 80s at the Arizona Humane Society, and it's a flame that burns brighter than ever here at NHS. I'm dedicated to ensuring every furry friend in our care receives the medical attention they deserve, helping them find their forever homes.

At home, I have my very own zoo to manage—a delightful chaos of animals that keeps me on my toes when I'm not at the clinic.

Hello! I'm Aria, NHS's go-to Volunteer Manager. I've been navigating the wonderful world of volunteerism for over nine years. My journey started in affordable housing advocacy and domestic violence awareness, where I learned firsthand about the profound impact animals can have on our lives.

Hailing from UCLA with a degree in Political Science and later earning my master's in Anthropology at UNR, my academic path may not have seemed destined for animal welfare, but the heart wants what it wants! Landing here at NHS feels like the universe aligning all my passions into one fulfilling role.

Speaking of destiny, my grandma always insisted I belonged in a career with animals. Turns out, she was onto something. Working alongside dogs every day has been nothing short of a dream come true. Their wagging tails and unconditional love make even the toughest days brighter.

In my free time, you can find me enjoying time with my 2-year-old daughter. She's a constant reminder of the magic of the human-animal bond. Her best buddy? Galaxy, our resident feline mischief-maker. I think Galaxy secretly adores the attention, even if she pretends otherwise!

At NHS, we're all about fostering a warm, positive atmosphere. Compassion, empathy, and a healthy dose of fun are our calling cards. Whether you're joining us as a volunteer, adopting a furry friend, or simply soaking up the cuteness on our socials, we're thrilled to have you on this journey with us.

Howdy! James Rehm here; you can find me at the Carson City Campus of Nevada Humane Society, running operations as the Carson Operations Manager! I have spent over seven years working with our furry (and sometimes: scaley!) pawtners in life in all aspects of Animal Welfare: From Managed Admission shelters to Open Admission; From private Vet Med, to working in the field implementing Humane Enforcement! My career goal is to spread humane knowledge of animals to further the Human-Animal Bond, and unify the Shelter industry to maximize our society's lifesaving potential!

I joined Nevada Humane Society in October of 2021 as an Animal Control Officer to better serve the community in which I lived and to experience this unique aspect of Animal Welfare. I've been certified through the National Animal Control Association, as well as through Code 3 Associates EAST Acadamy - credentialed through Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. I also recently passed the rigorous Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA) exam through The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement!

I really found a home at Nevada Humane Society through our ability to connect with so many families in the community. Providing humane education and connecting community members with resources to keep their family together has been a driving force in my life that keeps me inspired to elevate our staff to the best that we can be!

When I'm not caring for pets, finding them homes, and saving lives: I can be found sipping my third cup of coffee, writing short stories or plucking away at a new song on the violin—my own troupe of cats and dogs being my captive audience as I learn which way is up on the strings!​​”

Hello, hello! I’m Brett, proud Dog Staff Manager at Nevada Humane Society. My team and I are all about the animals, especially the pups! It’s our mission to ensure every dog in our care gets top-notch treatment while they wait for their forever family to find them. We’re here to give them love, attention, and the best possible start before they head off to their happily-ever-afters.

Before I joined the NHS team, I spent nearly 5 years working in animal welfare at a local clinic. I absolutely loved my time there. Helping animals and constantly learning new ways to improve as a caregiver and as a dog owner. Every day was a chance to grow, and I’m so grateful for that experience.

Now, let me introduce my two four-legged besties: Buster and Ludo. Buster is my main man. I found him all alone in a California desert when he was just about 9 months old. Fast forward over 10 years, and he’s still by my side as the best dog I could ever ask for. We’ve been through so much together, and I feel incredibly lucky to have him in my life. Ludo’s story is just as special, but I’ll save that one for another day!

When I’m not at NHS, you might find me out adventuring with friends and family or just chilling at home with my pups, gaming away. Whether it’s cuddles on the couch or exploring the great outdoors, life with my dogs is always an adventure, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!

Hey There! I'm Morgan, Client Services Manager at NHS, where I lead our exceptional team in connecting thousands of pet parents with their perfect furry companions. Whether it's guiding someone through the adoption process or providing compassionate support to those facing the difficult decision to surrender a pet, I'm here to ensure every interaction is filled with empathy and understanding.

My journey to NHS began in 2023, following a career path rooted in campaign politics and education. From orchestrating high-stakes events for gubernatorial candidates to crafting impactful legislative policies, my professional life has been dedicated to championing causes I deeply believe in. Teaching A.P. Human Geography to inquisitive 9th graders and managing operations at PALS Chess Academy were pivotal experiences that enriched my perspective and prepared me for the dynamic challenges of animal welfare.

Proudly waving the maize and blue flag, I earned my degree in Political Science from the University of Michigan—Go Blue! Joining NHS has allowed me to merge my passion for advocacy with a profound love for animals, finding fulfillment in making a tangible difference in their lives.

Life has taken me across the map, with each of the past four years spent calling a different state home. Now settled in Northern Nevada with my partner Abby, our lively labrador mix Padfoot, and the spirited cat Margot, I've discovered a true sense of belonging and community. Beyond my role at NHS, you'll often find me exploring the great outdoors of the Reno-Tahoe area. Whether I'm pounding the trails on a morning run, cycling through picturesque landscapes, or hiking to hidden vistas, adventure is my constant companion. Abby and I are avid explorers, always seeking out new trails and vistas to savor.

Hiya! I’m Jennifer Spurr, Human Resources Manager here at NHS. My journey here began in December 2022, and my mission is clear: I strive to craft effective HR strategies, ensure compliance, and develop an enticing total rewards program. This way, our incredible NHS team can focus wholeheartedly on caring for pets, finding them forever homes, and ultimately saving lives.

My HR adventure kicked off in California in 2011, where I spent three and a half years as an HR assistant for a nationwide mortgage company. Alongside this, I pursued my passion for Interior Design, earning my Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2012. From 2017 to 2021, as IAM Manager for an international company, I spearheaded a successful HR software overhaul and integrated multiple systems, streamlining onboarding and offboarding processes for over 4,000 employees. Certified in Human Resources Management from the HRCI Learning Center and an active member of SHRM and NNHRA, I’m dedicated to staying at the forefront of HR innovation and best practices.

Combining my love for supporting people with my passion for animal welfare at NHS has been incredibly fulfilling. Whether guiding seasoned veterans or newcomers to the field, I’m here to empower our team to make a meaningful impact. Outside of NHS, you’ll find me enjoying quality time with my fiancé and our two adopted cats, Lorne and Meadow, who we lovingly welcomed into our lives from NHS. With two remarkable adult sons in Northern California and a daughter proudly serving in the U.S. Air Force, I cherish every moment, especially during our frequent travels to visit them.

Hi! I’m Ryan, the high-spirited and fun-loving Facilities Manager at NHS. I bring years of experience from multiple industries, with my latest being in the non-profit world. As Facilities Manager, my goals are to maintain a high-functioning and safe environment for all staff and animals within our facilities.

I joined NHS in 2023, with experience in warehousing, general maintenance, and hotel hospitality. Combining all my skills and experience, I fell in love with the idea of helping maintain professionalism in Facilities Management and the betterment of NHS in a whole.

I have a soft spot for the crusty little dogs of the world and having the ability to do better by them warms my heart! Understanding that non-profit animal care is a passion industry, I thoroughly enjoy the work we do at NHS helping animals find their fuurever homes!

With a desire to learn, I regularly push myself to pursue any opportunity that I can. From building motorcycles and trucks to exploring the outdoors, Reno has provided the perfect home for my hobbies and family. Having 3 dogs, Hank, Bevin, Pancho and our cat Marcel, there is never a dull moment in our household, nor do we miss any opportunity to have fun!

Hello! I’m Shelly Volsche, Behavior and Transfer Team Manager. I’m an applied ethologist who has always been inspired by the human-animal bond. While many ethologists study wild animals, my focus has always been dogs and cats. My goal is to empower multispecies communities to thrive and find joy - starting with companion animals and those of us who help, love, and live with them.

Before joining NHS, I worked in higher education teaching and doing research in applied ethology and human-animal interactions. I’ve had the honor of speaking with numerous media outlets including NPR and The Washington Post. But my love was always working directly with animals and people, building close relationships with animal welfare organizations and finding my way here.

Joining NHS is a coming full circle for me. Before returning to college, I spent nearly a decade as a professional training and behavior consultant, working with species as varied as pigs and horses, to cats, and of course, dogs. During this time, I mentored other trainers and helped them find their voice in the community. In addition to completing my PhD, I am a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and Fear Free Shelter certified. The most important thing to working with animals - never stop learning. They don’t.

I’m excited to bring my knowledge and experience to the NHS mission to care for pets, find them homes, and save lives. When I’m not at NHS, you’ll find me enjoying coffee with my husband and our sassy old pug or continuing to learn about the amazing bond we share with others.

Hey There! I'm Dr. Skylar Koll, Associate Veterinarian here at Nevada Humane Society. You'll often find me in our bustling clinic, where I'm dedicated to performing spay/neuter surgeries, doling out vaccines to keep our community's pets healthy, and providing compassionate care to all the animals under our roof.

Originally hailing from the Northeast, I proudly graduated from UCONN before venturing west to Kansas State for my veterinary studies. Initially drawn to surgery, my passion took a turn when I discovered the profound impact I could make in shelter medicine. It's incredibly fulfilling to be both the caretaker and advocate for animals who haven't yet found their forever families.

Working at Nevada Humane Society allows me to fulfill this passion every day. Whether it's spaying kittens & puppies or ensuring comfort for our senior companions, each furry friend holds a special place in my heart. Witnessing our pets find loving homes thanks to our vibrant community is truly heartwarming.

Outside of the clinic, you'll catch me exploring the beauty of Nevada, hitting the slopes in winter, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, and enjoying quality time with my own fur-baby, Crowley. Can't wait to continue this journey with you all and share more tales of joy and healing!

Hey there! I’m Dr. Dorie Leftwich, an Associate Veterinarian here at NHS, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to be part of this incredible team. My journey in veterinary medicine began as a volunteer at an animal shelter, and from there, my passion for helping animals grew immensely. Seeing pets find their forever homes, surrounded by people who truly appreciate them, is one of the most rewarding experiences I can imagine.

I hold an Associate of Science degree with an emphasis in Community Health Science from TMCC and a Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Science with a minor in Microbiology & Immunology from UNR. I continued my education with a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Midwestern University in Glendale, AZ, and am currently pursuing a Master of Public Health degree from the same institution.

Born and raised in Northern Nevada, Reno will always be my home, even though I've explored other states. When I’m not busy caring for our furry friends, you’ll likely find me whipping up some spicy dishes for friends and family. Fair warning—bring some milk or Tums if you visit, as my cooking is unapologetically spicy! I also love traveling, so you might catch me sipping on a smoothie on a sunny beach somewhere.

Bio Coming Soon

I’m Dr. Heather Skogerson, an Associate Veterinarian with a deep passion for shelter medicine and a commitment to helping animals in need. Over the past decade, I’ve dedicated my career to providing care, vaccinations, and spay/neuter services to countless pets, striving to make a positive impact in their lives.

My journey in veterinary medicine started at the University of Nevada, Reno, where I earned my undergraduate degree. From there, I went on to Colorado State University to complete my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Along the way, my diverse background and experiences, including moving across the United States and internationally, have shaped my perspective and approach to veterinary care.

When I’m not working, I love exploring new places, trying out different recipes in the kitchen, and spending quality time with my own pets. My dedication to animal welfare goes beyond work. I strive to bring hope, healing, and joy to the communities I serve, always inspired by the animals and people I meet along the way.