Las Vegas no-kill animal sanctuary provides a temporary refuge for hundreds of homeless animals

By Dori Gilbert, Best Friends Network

In addition to hundreds of dogs and cats, the Nevada SPCA also currently provides sanctuary to over 60 rabbits, dozens of hamsters and gerbils, guinea pigs, pot bellied pigs, and various other animals, reptiles, and birds.

All are available for adoption to the right person/family. The Nevada SPCA takes into consideration each animal’s unique needs as well as the needs of potential adopters.

Any other dogs in the family must have a “meet & greet” with the potential new dog. A dog going into a family with a cat will have a “cat test” done first. Life-long bonded friends will not be separated and must be adopted together.

The Nevada SPCA will only allow an adoption to go through if it is in the best interests of all involved, especially the animals entrusted into their care.

Outreach Efforts
The Nevada SPCA strongly supports the community with several humane education programs and events, such as the Annual Family, Fur & Fun Festival (scheduled for October). They regularly conduct humane education presentations at schools, churches, and youth group events.

The SPCA gives sanctuary tours to children so they can see the rescue efforts first hand. They have fun sheets that give children the basics in animal care and coming soon will be workbooks and DVD’s. Through these programs the Nevada SPCA is teaching children compassion and respect for all living beings.

Other Services
Other services they offer to the community are referrals for low-cost spay/neuter and vaccination services, and on-site professional dog training. Adopters and Nevada SPCA members get a 10% discount on the training classes. Volunteers also take current resident dogs through the program to help make them more adoptable.

Volunteers are always needed. Whatever your skills and interests, there is most likely an area in which you can serve. Some current needs are: brushing cats, dog walking, taking dogs through obedience classes, helping at outside events, cleaning, and much more! Please call 873-7722 or e-mail NevadaSPCA@aol.com for more information.

The Nevada SPCA is one of the many rescue organizations that will offer pets for adoption at Pet-a-Palooza, Saturday, April 12, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Star Nursery Fields at Sam Boyd Stadium. The event is a highlight of the 1st Annual Nevada Week for the Animals, April 5-13, 2008, a statewide celebration to build awareness and mobilize action on behalf of all animals in the Silver State and Lake Tahoe area.

What You Can Do:
Come to Pet-a-Palooza and meet some of the Nevada SPCA animals, staff and volunteers. . Or visit the Nevada SPCA website. to find out more about how you can help.

Posted by Julie Snyder, Best Friends Network

Photo of Kendall, a truly lovable girl who is looking for a home that she can’t escape from and where she’s the only dog, courtesy of the Nevada SPCA.