Animal Services

Calendar Year 2025 Statistics

This page summarizes the work performed by Washoe County Regional Animal Services (WCRAS) during 2025. These statistics reflect our commitment to public safety and animal welfare.

2025 Impact at a Glance

  • 8,972 Total Animals Sheltered
    5,259 (59%) Dogs
    3,178 (35%) Cats
    535 (6%) Other
  • 2,797 (42%) Stray Dogs and Cats Reunited
    2,584 (63%) Dogs
    213 (8%) Cats
  • 35,570 (28.7%) Dog Licensing & Compliance
    35,570 Active Licenses
    28.7% Estimated Compliance
  • 95% Overall Live Release Rate (Dogs and Cats)
    95% Dogs
    94% Cats
  • 19,511 Calls for Service
  • 4,656 Animals Transferred to Rescue Groups
    1,659 Dogs
    2,626 Cats
    371 Other

Microchip Impact - 2025

Stray Pets reunited specifically due to microchips
Animal Returned
Dogs 1,655
Cats 133
Other 2
Total 1,790

In 2025, 42% 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 - 2025

Top service call categories responded to by WCRAS officers
Call Type Total Volume
Pets reported running loose 9,111
Animal welfare calls 1,991
Animal bite incidents 1,600
Noise nuisance complaints 1,487

Top Rescue Partners - 2025

WCRAS collaborates with local and national rescue organizations to help unclaimed animals find thier forever home. In 2025, 4,657 pets were transferred to our rescue partners.

Summary of transfers to top rescue partners by animal type
Rescue Organization Dogs Cats Other Total
Nevada Humane Society 1,437 2,420 109 3,966
SPCA of Northern Nevada 49 55 0 104
Res-Que 79 0 21 100
Bluefeather Horse Sanctuary 2 42 38 82

Data represents our top 4 partners by volume.

Our Rescue Network

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

Visual Summary - 2025

Infographic summarizing 2025 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 »