Animal Services

Calendar Year 2024 Statistics

This page summarizes the work performed by Washoe County Regional Animal Services (WCRAS) during 2024. These statistics reflect our commitment to public safety and animal welfare.

2024 Impact at a Glance

  • 9,301 Total Animals Sheltered
    5,387 (58%) Dogs
    3,386 (36%) Cats
    528 (6%) Other
  • 2,847 (41%) Stray Dogs and Cats Reunited
    2,667 (62%) Dogs
    180 (7%) Cats
  • 34,744 (28.0%) Dog Licensing & Compliance
    34,744 Active Licenses
    28.0% Estimated Compliance
  • 95% Overall Live Release Rate (Dogs and Cats)
    95% Dogs
    94% Cats
  • 19,890 Calls for Service
  • 4,904 Animals Transferred out of WCRAS
    1,812 Dogs
    2,825 Cats
    267 Other

Microchip Impact - 2024

Stray Pets reunited specifically due to microchips
Animal Returned
Dogs 1,720
Cats 117
Other 3
Total 1,840

In 2024, 41% 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 - 2024

Top service call categories responded to by WCRAS officers
Call Type Total Volume
Pets reported running loose 9,188
Animal welfare calls 2,258
Animal bite incidents 1,376
Noise nuisance complaints 1,689

Top Transfer Partners - 2024

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 2024, 4,904 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 1,565 2,616 71 4,252
SPCA of Northern Nevada 67 62 0 129
Res-Que 86 1 2 89
Options Veterinary Care 88 0 0 88

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.

Visual Summary - 2024

Infographic summarizing 2024 statistics

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

Call 311 to find resources, ask questions, and utilize Washoe County services. Learn More »
Call 311 to find resources, ask questions, and utilize Washoe County services. Learn More »