Sponsored by Mark IV Capital
As Fernley continues to grow, so do the needs of its residents—both human and animal. One
community need that remains critical is the expansion and modernization of local animal shelter
services.
Fernley Animal Services, a division of the City of Fernley led by Animal Service Program Manager
RanDee Gahr, handles impounded pets, lost-and-found cases, adoptions, and provides vital services
such as spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping. But without an animal shelter of its own,
Fernley Animal Services partners with Lyon County Animal Services in Silver Springs for extended
animal control and sheltering support—particularly for stray dogs.
Fernley Animal Services has handled an average of more than 400 cases per year over the past five
years, but handled more than 500 cases in 2024, and the caseload shows no signs of slowing down. But
the Lyon County Animal Shelter in Silver Springs, which serves the entire county, except for the City of
Yerington, only has 44 kennels
While these resources form the foundation of local animal care, Fernley still lacks a purpose-built, full-
capacity, modern shelter facility—one that reflects the city’s rapid growth and aligns with best practices
for community-based animal care.
Fernley Animal Control works diligently within its current capacity, but the city’s expanding
population—now exceeding 25,000 residents—puts pressure on the system. Support also comes from
nonprofit organizations like Animal Rescue Group of Northern Nevada, which focuses heavily on
rescuing and rehoming cats, and Precious Paws Society of Nevada, which helps with lost and found
animals, assists pet owners in need, and provides broader advocacy for pet welfare.
However, none of these organizations operate a standalone, comprehensive shelter facility. As a result,
Fernley faces persistent challenges, including limited housing for surrendered or stray animals requiring
transport to Silver Springs or beyond.
A modern animal shelter would not duplicate existing efforts—it would enhance, strengthen, and
centralize them. In presenting her ideas for a shelter in Fernley, Gahr said that housing animals in
Fernley that are picked up or surrendered in Fernley can help reunite them with their owners more
quickly, and it can help Fernley Animal Services support educated and responsible pet ownership.
She said such a facility also needs the ability to house cats. The Lyon County shelter does not accept
cats except in situations of protected custody, such as when an owner dies or is hospitalized, of if they
are seized due cruelty or neglect. That leaves the care of cats up to the volunteer rescue groups, but
that because an issue in trying to care for sick or injured cats and can’t be placed for adoption.
The benefits of a local animal shelter include:
1. Public Safety
Stray animals can create traffic hazards or pose risks through bites or aggressive behavior. A local
shelter improves response time and containment, protecting both residents and pets.
2. Public Health Vaccination, sterilization, and disease prevention services help curb rabies, parasites, and
zoonotic disease transmission. A centralized facility ensures broader community access.
3. Lost & Found
Having a single, trusted location where residents can reunite with lost pets—or adopt new
companions—builds public trust and keeps more animals safe.
4. Community Engagement
An expanded shelter can serve as an educational hub with volunteer opportunities, student programs,
and therapy pet outreach—building a culture of compassion.
5. Support for Families in Crisis
During difficult life transitions—job loss, eviction, illness—a shelter offers temporary support and
humane alternatives to pet abandonment.
This article is part of a weekly sponsored series by Mark IV Capital, developer of Victory Logistics
District. For more information on upcoming projects and community partnerships, visit markiv.com
.
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