Calendar Year 2022 Statistics

This page summarizes the work performed by Washoe County Regional Animal Services (WCRAS) during 2022. These statistics reflect our commitment to public safety and animal welfare.

2022 Impact at a Glance

10,779 Total Animals Sheltered

5,851 (54%) Dogs

4,455 (41%) Cats

473 (4%) Other
3,072 (37%) Stray Dogs and Cats Reunited

2,876 (63%) Dogs

196 (5%) Cats
28,597 (24.7%) Dog Licensing & Compliance

28,597 Active Licenses

24.7% Estimated Compliance
96% Overall Live Release Rate (Dogs and Cats)

95% Dogs

96% Cats
19,537 Calls for Service
6,228 Animals Transferred out of WCRAS

2,006 Dogs

3,881 Cats

341 Other

Microchip Impact - 2022

Stray Pets reunited specifically due to microchips
Animal	Returned
Dogs	1,856
Cats	125
Other	3
Total	1,984

In 2022, 37% of all stray dogs and cats were successfully returned to their families. This rate significantly surpasses the national average of 11% (Shelter Animals Count 2025 Mid-Year Report , opens in a new tab).

Community Response - 2022

Top service call categories responded to by WCRAS officers
Call Type	Total Volume
Pets reported running loose	8,982
Animal welfare calls	2,596
Animal bite incidents	1,149
Noise nuisance complaints	1,952

Top Transfer Partners - 2022

WCRAS collaborates with local and national rescue organizations to help unclaimed animals find their forever home. Unlike many shelters, WCRAS does not operate an adoption program; our role is focused on public safety, reunification, and temporary care. When animals are not reclaimed by their owners, they are transferred to trusted rescue partners who provide continued care and adoption services. In 2022, 6,228 pets were transferred out of WCRAS to other agencies.

Summary of transfers to top agencies by animal type
Agency	Dogs	Cats	Other	Total
Nevada Humane Society	1,906	3,829	195	5,930
Res-Que	43	0	11	54
SPCA of Northern Nevada	31	23	0	54
Silver Stike Farms	0	0	40	40

Data represents our top 4 transfer agencies by volume.

Our Rescue Network

We work with a diverse group of partners to save lives. You can view our full rescue partner directory or apply to join our lifesaving network.

View All Active Partners Become a Rescue Partner

Visual Summary - 2022

Historical Data

Accessibility Support

If you experience difficulty accessing any content on this page, please reach out:

Email: pets@washocounty.gov | Phone: 775-353-8900