The Nevada Humane Society has been renovating its Reno shelter to create a more inviting and functional space aimed at increasing pet adoptions and enhancing experiences for both animals and visitors.
The nonprofit organization has been working to update its lobby and public areas with a combination of modern design and technology, following best practices in animal welfare and shelter design.
The remodel, which began earlier this year, will include a new layout that reduces physical barriers between adopters and pets, replacing the existing service-desk setup with lounge-style seating to foster more natural interactions.
The updated environment will feature pet-friendly furniture, energy-efficient lighting, easy-to-clean flooring, and murals throughout the space.
“We know finding the right pet is an emotional experience and the space where this journey begins matters,” said Jerleen Bryant, CEO of Nevada Humane Society. “With a reimagined interior and a better-equipped team, we are confident we will be creating an environment that quickly puts humans and animals at ease. We are mindful that an improved environment can contribute to improved first interactions, which we are confident will bolster adoption rates for animals at our Reno shelter.”
The Reno facility’s lobby has remained largely unchanged since NHS moved into the location in 2007.
The new design incorporates tablets for staff, allowing real-time access to shelter records and faster responses to adopter questions.
A digital display will also showcase adoptable pets, key shelter statistics, and upcoming events.
“First impressions matter,” said Bryant. “We want our space to truly reflect the joy and warmth of adoption, because bringing home a new pet isn’t just a transaction, it’s an experience. We look forward to the days we can enhance that experience and, simultaneously, remained focus on maintaining the same level of care afforded for animals at the shelter.”
The remodel was done in phases to avoid disrupting adoptions and minimize stress for the animals. As expected, it was completed in June.
On June 17, NHS will debut the remodeled space to its nonprofit supporters during a private event and has invited media to attend and help share the changes with the wider public.
The event is not open to the general public, but images and updates will be shared after the unveiling.
NHS is the largest adoption agency in northern Nevada and operates shelters in both Reno and Carson City.
While the Carson City location receives a small amount of tax-based funding, the majority of support comes from private donors.
The Reno shelter is located at 2825 Longley Lane, Suite B.
More information on NHS, updates on the remodel, and weekly adoption metrics can be found on the organization’s website and social media platforms.
