The Washoe County Regional Animal Services Advisory Board has taken significant steps to enhance community awareness about pet safety as the summer months approach. During their meeting on May 16, 2025, board members discussed the importance of educating the public on the dangers of leaving pets in hot cars. Cheyenne, a representative from the board, announced that the SPCA of Northern Nevada has initiated a marketing campaign to address this issue, with materials set to be shared across social media platforms.

In addition to the marketing efforts, board member Julie McMahon suggested exploring partnerships with local big box stores to display sandwich boards that remind customers not to leave pets in vehicles. This idea aims to leverage high-traffic areas to maximize outreach and ensure pet safety during the warmer months.

The board also addressed the pressing issue of emergency preparedness in light of increasing wildfire risks. Trudy Broussard raised concerns about local evacuation drills and the need for pet owners to have a plan in place for their animals. Cheyenne confirmed that the department has resources available and is actively engaging with community groups to provide guidance on pet evacuation procedures.

Tammy Jennings, another board member, highlighted ongoing efforts to update emergency response plans and ensure that both large and small animal evacuation procedures are well-defined. The board plans to discuss these topics further in future meetings, emphasizing the importance of public input in shaping policies and protocols.

As the meeting concluded, board members expressed their commitment to staying engaged with community needs and ensuring that animal safety remains a priority. The next meeting will continue to focus on these critical issues, with an emphasis on collaboration and proactive measures to protect pets and their owners during emergencies.