Washoe County Regional Animal Services Dispatch (WCAS) employees continue to still remind me of the joke: Why did the dog catcher get fired? He / she kept chasing parked cars. At Washoe County Regional Animal Services Dispatch (WCAS) and management what I continue to find frustrating for years is their lack of knowing their job description, the laws they are to enforce, basic manners, basic business skills, basic communication skills, and their below average intelligence. The latest failing of WCAS is the increase of unleashed dogs not only in our neighborhood but also at the parks. I have recently observed three attacks by unleashed dogs upon walkers at the park, and four attacks by unleashed dogs upon leashed dogs at the parks and an unleashed dog in the neighborhood attacking one of my neighbors who was walking to the park and twice unleashed dogs in the neighborhood attacking my neighbors leashed dogs while walking their leashed dogs in the neighborhood. Washoe County Regional Animal Services Dispatch refuses to take a report or do anything about it. Why? Because the violations of Washoe County leash law and dog attacks are taking place when Washoe County Regional Animal Services Dispatch is not open. Washoe County Animal Services is REQUIRED to enforce various laws related to animal ownership, care, and control, primarily outlined in Washoe County Code Chapter 55. https://washoecounty.gov/animal/faq/ Taxpayer funded salaries at WCAS are at https://transparentnevada.com/salaries/search/?a=washoe&q=animal+services&y=2022 P.S. Don't message me because in spite of several complaints to yelp, for years now I am unable to open up any messages in yelp to me :-( read more

Vaccinations overseen by certified vet. Was done efficiently and at a cost I could easily afford versus what I'd expect to pay at my veterinarian's practice. read more

No one picks up the phone. No one has EVER RETURNED MY CALLS TO explore adoption of dogs. read more

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We went to have our dog vaccinated. WRAS is clean. The staff are friendly. Our dog came out happy after getting his vaccinations.

I don't want to ruin the ratings for this facility as they do lots of hard thankless work and I am very appreciative. However I called to check on 2 kittens I had dropped off that were abandoned at the park and the lady on the phone instantly attacked me stating "Yeah you put them in the wrong cage and they were all in the drain... we had to fish them out" and continued berating after me..... I explained I had left 2 approx 12 week old kittens in kennel 12 that had water and a litter box. She then backtracked and gave me a very half-hearted apology.... Please train your front desk/dispatchers to lead every conversation with compassion as this experience really made me feel awful for trying to do the right thing. Being blamed for someone else's mistake that I take very seriously was not appropriate. Otherwise the dispatcher I spoke to last night while dropping them off was very helpful and wonderful. Thank you for your consideration and everything you do for our community. read more

I've been collecting during the year to donate. My spoiled dogs, have way too much, so it's time to share. There are two containers to drop off. One worker at the door, and appointments only. I asked for a receipt, and she said to place the items in the containers. So I did, and was waiting, until she peeked out and I gave her my information. A little confusion as I waited after I dropped off in the bin, because she said she would then check out what I dropped off. I assumed she was going to come out, check what I dropped off, then get a receipt. They will email you a receipt in a week. Not sure how they can tell what you donated when others come and drop off and leave. I just want to help the animals there, so hopefully they will be able to use everything. read more

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It's a necessary evil, having to go to this place. Every year I register my dog and dread it. I try to do everything by email but most of the time, it's easier to do it in person. I was two days late this last time and they slapped me with a late fee and they were very rude about it too. We pay these people, these people work for us! They act like they ARE toxic employers with their huffing and puffing and big unpleasant attitudes toward us and we are their employees. They've obviously got things backward here. This department needs a massive intervention and perhaps an entire overhaul! Out with the grouchy impersonal office staff, in with new professional office staff! Those front desk people are generally the face of an organization and right now, WCRAS (Washoe County Regional Animal Services) has an ugly, contorted and distorted face. Just treat people with dignity and respect. So instead of saying (from a conversation I overheard between a front desk office worker and her employer, a Washoe County resident), "It's a law that you have to register all of your dogs and if you don't, you can face fines and go to jail." Perhaps a better approach would have been to say something like: "We are so grateful when honest people like you, register your dogs because doing so keeps the services that we provide for the welfare of animals and people going strong so thank you! It is a legal requirement and we do know that the vast majority of people like you do it anyway. Please help us spread the word about this and thank you again Mr. Smith," for example. The first approach is antagonistic and hostile, discouraging a willingness to cooperate while the second approach is positive and kind, inspiring a willingness to cooperate. Treat others well (and not just because we pay 100% of your salaries meaning that you work for us), you'll get back good or treat them like crap, and most often, you'll get crap back. GET IT TOGETHER WCRAS! read more

So my friend's neighbors have 3 dogs and 3 puppies. Animal control doesn't count puppies. Any ways these people never pick up dog poo dont give them water and animal control gave them notice before coming to check on their welfare. One dog was already missing an eye. Well long story short. Animal control gave them a pass. WHAT?????!! SO NOW ANOTHER DOG IS MISSING AN EYE. AND ANIMAL CONTROL GAVE THEM A PERMIT FOR ANOTHER DOG. ARE YPU KIDDING ME???!!!! read more

The worst people answer the phone, they are not helpful at all and very rude. For working with dogs, they don't seem like dog people, they act like they should be working at the DMV. But this is what tax dollars pay for, you were to think since they have great benefits they would also have great attitudes. read more

I am devastated that I recently lost my cat. But Washoe County Regional Animal Shelter does have a website where you can report your lost pets and post a picture. The website is update every 20 minutes and you will receive an email if your pet is found. It will be a miracle if my cat returns to me, but at least I have hope that if someone finds my cat, they can check this site and find him in the database. read more

My lost pet was turned in and i had to run down in the morning to claim him. Was a bit of a hassel as i put the original adoption in my daughters ne but had my email and phone # took 40 min to get her to email them for me to claim ownership. They told me the vet tech said he was blind. I dont know how they came to that exact conclusion because i took him to the vet and they laughed said theres no way he was blind he reacted to all stimulus. But im greatful to have him back. 66 days gone. Was almost lost hope. Small fee under 40$ to get him. read more

Washoe County Regional Animal Services - Link missing 2 mo 5 days finally coming home. - Animal Shelters Near Me - Reno, Nevada

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Very rude employees. You would think because you are working with animals they are kindhearted but guessed wrong. Angela Mezger could not be more unhappy with her job there. Treat me with respect, don't talk to me like an idiot. read more

I usually write glowing reviews about our city caregivers. Not today. We live in a neighborhood that has a substantial amount of cats and drunken neighbors. The drunken neighbors run over the cats. Both my husband and I have taken it upon ourselves to take care of removing the deceased pets or ferals. Lots of little kids in this neighborhood do not need to come across a dead animal. I called animal control right after they openend to report one of our feral Calicos got ran over. The cat was right in the middle of the street. People drive fast here and my husband was leaving for work. I decided we needed a professional. I just went to walk my little dog and after 7 hours the cat remains in the road. I quickly moved it to the curb. It was appalling yes. I contacted the dispatcher who quite frankly sounded annoyed. She said we are dealing with the living first. I get that... It's monday. Come on. I guess my 58 year old husband, after working all day will have to bag up the cat and dig a hole? read more

I just got off the phone to let the front desk dog license department know that I moved out of state & would not be renewing dog licenses again this year for my 3 dogs. This women was so rude & disrespectful! WOW!! Another reason I'm so happy I don't live in Reno, NV anymore! Never had problems like this with anyone at this department or any of the departments there. read more

I was greeted immediately by Tom S. who was working alone at the counter. I explained that I had just adopted a puppy from the attached humane society shelter and gave him the paperwork. He entered my information and my pup's information (less his new name, as I hadn't named him yet) including his microchip number, into the computer and was assigned a tag/license to my pup. The humane society and Animal Control both have microchip readers which can be helpful in getting your dog back to you (if lost) when you keep your personal information current with them. The tag fee was $8 because he was neutered (just the day before... poor little guy!) it's higher for unaltered dogs. The transaction was quick and efficient. Next year, I'll be notified in the mail when his license is due for renewal. read more

I spoke to Tracy today at this agency. I have reported Animal Neglect regarding the treatment of our neighbor's dogs many times. I spoke to Casino who kindly suggested I file a noise complaint to see if our neighbors would possibly walk their dogs. Has not happened. I called again today. Casi suggested I take a video which I have to make available to them. This particular representative did not want the video and has instead suggested that I continue with the noise complaint where she made it more than clear that they would inform the neighbors of exactly who was complaining. Is she really trying to dissuade me or anyone who is desperately trying to help these dogs? The neighbors already know that I am the complainant. I have spoken to them directly and I videoed their dogs for God's sake. How ridiculous is an Agency that's sole purpose is to care about the mistreatment of animals then say to you that if food and water and shelter are being provided then that is all that matters even though the shelter receives no sunlight and the space is only just big enough to lay down. That is Absolute Neglect. I have contacted another agency and am waiting for a response. I am not done fighting for these living creatures. read more

I recently had a meeting at the Washoe County Regional Animal Services and while there was given a tour of the entire facility. I was extremely impressed with the care given in this facility. It was extremely clean with a very regimented cleaning and sanitizing schedule. The animals were all well cared for and very comfortable. The animals that are picked up have an average of only staying 2-4 days before their families come to pick them up. The several kinds of animals for some reason surprised me as well. Fish, rabbits, ferrets, and even a horse was on the premises while I was there. Very very few cats were there as they mention seeing a drastic decrease in feral cats after starting their catch and release program of catching them, spaying and neutering them the. Releasing them again. That was a relief to see and discover as I have always had the horror picture in my head of all the hundreds of stray cats in there. Not the case at all. They had a warehouse full of dog and cat food as well as pallets full of donated cat litter and a room full of donated blankets and dog toys to help the animals feel more at home and comfortable while they wait for their families. I was impressed and pleased to see the incredible set up they have there and to also see the extraordinary love each employee there has for these animals and animals in general. read more

Our dog got out and I called Regional Animal Services, in case anyone called them to report a loose dog. A couple of hours later the same dispatcher I had spoken with called me back and let me know that someone had picked up my dog and turned him into their offices. It was such a huge relief that he was found and I am so grateful that the dispatcher took his time to call me back and let me know he had been found. It is obvious that their main objective is to make sure that all animals are safe. read more

I must say I'm EXTREMELY disappointed with the animal services here in Reno! I live in apartments that over look into a backyard w 4 puppy's and 1 adult dog all of which are NEVER aloud indoors, they never love on the dogs, I've never seen them play w them, pet them, nothing! They don't go on walks, they don't have toys. They bark and cry all hours of the night keeping me and my poor 8yr old awake. That's not the worst part, the worst part is I have called, sent letters, emailed, and contacted 3 separate officers due to a man who not only me and my child have witnessed but my neighbors have also seen beat w a broom, pick them up by the throat, by the mouth, choke them, throw them like ragdolls, he sprayed them on a cold morning for over 10 minutes w a hose for no reason, they were all trying so hard to get away! I have over a dozen videos of these incidents, my neighbors also have videos, 1 video he is trapping these maybe 40lb puppies in a doghouse and beating them choking them so hard that they scream so loud the whole neighborhood was watching! But since the videos are either too far away, not showing a dog (cuz they are in the doghouse) or basically it's all hear say even tho there is 5 adult and 1 child witness, they can't do anything!!! What the hell happen to our system?!?! I've made contact for over 4 months watching this go on, at times having to watch my son cry from the sheer brutality and sadness of the puppies screams alone! I watch this on a DAILY basis, but they told me I can only call once per week! Are u kidding me?! I've never been so disappointed in my life. I feel helpless and our system has 100% FAILED these dogs, they are going to end up dead and I have to sit back and watch because I don't have enough proof. I'm shocked and baffled at this! PLEASE HELP THESE DAM DOGS!!!!!! I wish I could add the videos but it's pics only, but trust me u don't want to see them. read more

This review is specific to animal license/registration. I have registered dogs in Washoe County since 2008, never been late, and dogs always up to date on vaccination. On 31 October 2022 I received a notice to update my dog's license. Apparently Washoe County now uses something called Docupet. The next day, 1 November 2022. I went online to register and was charged a $10 late fee. I called Docupet and spoke to someone who was very nice and helpful, but insisted a letter and phone call had gone out earlier to me. I assured her I had received nothing. She looked back at my records and realized that Washoe County switched to Docupet in September which is about the time I should have been notified. She felt I had probably been caught up and missed in the changeover. She said Washoe County would have to approve a refund but considering the circumstances she felt they would. Was she ever wrong. One of the rudest people I've ever dealt with let me know in no uncertain terms I was late and I would have to deal with Docupet for any refund. I said Docupet told me Washoe County would have to approve it first but she said there is no way Washoe County will approve it. I would have donated to their animal fund along with the registration fee and in fact have donated cat and dog food and supplies several times over the years. But I won't do a late fee and a donation. Now my donations will go to other animal rescue sites. read more

I have always gone to get dogs shots and license here. Staff is extremely friendly and make it a very smooth process! I would recommend anyone looking to rescue an animal go through the services here! You will not be disappointed. read more

This place is doing right by animals and owners alike. If you need help finding a lost pet or to see if it was picked up, this is your first stop. The comprehensive website lets you upload a picture of your lost pet to their page for easy identification and for other lost pet owner to try to help. Go in, and they have a screen showing every single pet housed in their roof that you can browse through. Staff is up front and friendly to interact with and very helpful as well. read more

A stray living in rv park for 3 years had a deep wound in neck for at least 2 weeks. Neighbors took care of him. He came to me last night & friend called Animal Services. Stephanie picked him up. Said he was headed for ER. Brandon returned carrier. How lucky we & our animals are to live in Reno. Whatever the outcome, at least the cat was in a good place. A good place to consider donating. Kudos to the awesome people who care for our furry friends. They are the ones to call to pick up injured or sick animals. read more

Unbelievable! My cat was quarantined for 10 days ( my bad for not keeping him updated on rabies shot) he scratched and bit my 31 year old daughters hand ( playing not intentional). She had to get antibiotics and animal control came to our house and our cat ended up in the pokey for 10 days. Also he didn't have rabies. Anyway I picked him up at designated time. Staff informed me they would not release him to me without my husband's consent. Lol! Ok. Husband out of town. Thankfully he answered the phone. Verified his date of birth ( which I could have verified) then asked for my driver's license which the address is the same as my husband's. I walked in there friendly and even made a joke. However, the staff was unfriendly, didn't once crack a smile. I felt I was the intrusion. Typed information for the next 10 minutes. I said this is worse than bailing someone out Parr blvd. Horrible experience! Exhortation to the public. Keep your animals vaccinated or you'll end up dealing with this nonsense. Btw you can't quarantine your animal at home. The law changed two years ago. In addition they will charge you $10 day. read more

Very warm and friendly staff. Unusual for a government facility but this one is very different in my opinion. Thanks for making it so easy !!! read more

9/14/2020 We stopped at a casino to go to the bathroom. It was 12:10.Got back to truck before 12:30. An individual was poking something through the truck window so I hurried to get there. It was an animal control officer. She tells me that Nevada has the same law as California. I had no idea what she was talking but I felt I was target because of out of state plates. I was told that leaving a dog in my truck was a misdemeanor. Now I was feeling that senior citizens are also targeted. I felt threatened because she talked about breaking into my vehicle and seizing my dog. I had no clue still about what she is talking about. Then she said I was getting a warning. We were told we could not sit in the vehicle to have lunch with the dog in the car. I felt she was telling us to get of of Nevada. The law indicates extreme weather conditions. It was in mid seventies and I do not think that is extreme. She said the temperature in the front seat was 95 and back seat was 91. The way she was pointing it around through the window made me feel she was not trained in using the so called temperature gun or she was looking for hot sots. My windows were 5 o 6 inches open on both sides. The dog had food and water. Our lunch had a bag of ice in it and I noticed the dog had access to it. The web site indicates that personnel are highly trained. She may need to be trained in the meaning of extreme weather and how to properly use the temperature gun. How about training to educate people about the law instead of threatening them with prosecution when it is apparent no law is violated. Unless- the real training is how to target elderly out of state persons that will pay any and all fees that Reno can demand. She could have also falsified the report which would force me to pay the fees. Maybe some day she will. Covid-19 may make the animal control people desperate for funding. John Treulufian Grass Valley Ca read more

I had a terrible encounter with one of your "officers". No need to threaten me with a ticket! It's okay to inform me of the laws, but do so either respect and professionalism! This is the same officer I see ALL the time hanging out at our local park. She sits there for very long periods of time. Why doesn't she cruise around looking for lost pets??? Explains why no one ever shows up in a timely matter when I have called for dogs locked in hot cars! read more

I volunteer for a local animal rescue in town, and we take our dogs here to get all their shots, and to get microchipped. I have been here a handful of times to take the puppers here, and each time I have experienced pleasant people who helped me immediately. There is never too long of a wait, and the staff here is super helpful! It's always a pleasant experience when we come here, so it's much appreciated by us! I've never heard anyone on their staff have a bad encounter with someone, and I have heard them genuinely try to help people. We are lucky in Washoe County to have such a great animal service who goes above and beyond within their building, and to have animal control officers who go above and beyond within our community! read more

I am a Senior citizen with 2 small chihuahuas and a 13 yr. old black lab. Last night the WCRAS ladies with badges, came to my home in Spanish Sprgs. at 9pm, I was asleep. I go to bed at 7pm nightly. They rang my doorbell. My husband answered and they wanted to talk to me about a German Shepherd that had bitten someone in the neighborhood. Told the girls the Shepherd lives next door, belongs to woman's son. They said someone called them, described me, and said I was walking a dog; me who is disabled and had been asleep since 7pm. Clearly the wrong info, and the wrong house. They never checked next door where they were told a mean German Shepherd lived, who gets out, and has bitten others in the neighborhood prior. Today, they came back again, and I feel totally harassed by these two female dog officers. Once again they reiterate the story from last night. Problem is, this time I am fully awake and eating my dinner. I lost it and told them to go next door and do their job of dog control, and quit harassing me or I would call the police. I only decided to use Yelp to voice my experience, because the Washoe County website does not include a complaint link; they are not perfect. read more