For dogs waiting for a second chance, a new $25,000 donation could help open the door to a forever home.
Lyon County Animal Services received the anonymous donation nearly a month after making an urgent plea for help as the shelter faced critical overcrowding. The money will cover spay and neuter costs and lower adoption fees to $50.
The shelter has 36 dog kennels and eight quarantine kennels. At the height of the overcrowding, Animal Services was caring for 69 dogs, while more than 60 additional dogs were on a surrender list waiting to come into the shelter.
The community responded quickly. Within one week of the announcement, 35 dogs left the shelter, opening three kennels and allowing dozens of animals to begin the next chapter of their lives.
But the need has not gone away. Animal Services continues to take in stray animals, while nearly 60 dogs remain on the waitlist for space.
People considering adding a pet to their family are encouraged to visit the shelter and consider adoption.
Those who cannot adopt can also help by fostering, volunteering, or spreading the word about animals looking for homes.
The shelter is thanking the anonymous donor for the contribution, as well as the community for stepping up when help was needed.
For information about volunteer opportunities with Lyon County Animal Services, call (775) 577-5005.
