Real news. Real stories. Real voices.
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Supported by

Despite improvements, animal shelters in Las Vegas need relief from overcrowding

Vinnie, a 9 week old rescued stray kitten, being cared for with his brother by Peterborough Cat Rescue, at St Paul's Church in Covent Garden in London, Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023.
Kirsty Wigglesworth
/
AP
Vinnie, a 9 week old rescued stray kitten, being cared for with his brother by Peterborough Cat Rescue, at St Paul's Church in Covent Garden in London, Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023.

For years now, local officials have enacted laws to eliminate puppy mills, illegal breeders and more. It’s been an effort to improve care, reduce populations, and end the killing of thousands of animals every year.

This isn’t just a Nevada issue. Estimates vary depending, but it’s estimated that 2 million more pets are euthanized each year.

Locally, some progress has been made. The Animal Foundation reported a 16% drop in euthanasia last year. But concerns remain. That became evident during the Foundation’s annual meeting in December, when residents talked of reviving a local committee to oversee Foundation issues.

The first part of today's show focuses on what's behind this entrenched problem. Then, our guests take questions about listeners' pets.

Representatives of the Animal Foundation, the largest animal shelter in Las Vegas, couldn’t join us today.


Guests: Lori Heeran, executive director, Nevada Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals; Dr. Susie Costa, veterinarian, Hearts Alive Village; Veronica Selco, owner, ImPETus Animal Training

Stay Connected
Christopher Alvarez is a news producer and podcast editor at Nevada Public Radio, focusing on the State of Nevada and Desert Air programs.