Keeping Pets and People Safe

Important Reminders for the Summer Season

Reno, Nev. April 21, 2017. Washoe County Regional Animal Services, Washoe County Parks, the cities of Reno and Sparks are working together to keep parks and people safe by asking the community to use our region’s parks responsibly with your pet. 

As the weather warms up and many looking to frequent community parks, two of the most persistent problems in area parks are off leash dogs and pet waste. “We are very fortunate to share beautiful parks and open spaces in our community and if everyone adheres to the regulations and common courtesy, it will go a long way to keep our parks clean and our pets and people safe,” says Shyanne Schull, Washoe County Regional Animal Services Director. 

For animal owners who bring their dogs to the parks or any public place in Washoe County, there are a few requirements that you should be aware of:

• You must pick up after your dog—you are required to carry a suitable waste container.

• Your dog is required to be licensed and be current on their rabies vaccination.

• Your dog must be restrained by a leash at all Washoe County, Reno and Sparks Parks.

• While there are multiple off-leash areas (dog parks) that allow friendly dogs to play under the supervision of their owner, additional rules apply to these off-leash areas.  

These regulations are outlined in Washoe County Code and are in place to protect people as well as animals.  

Washoe County Regional Animal Services enforces these regulations and violations can result in fines. “By reminding our community about these issues and enforcing any violations, we help more people, and their animals, enjoy all our parks have to offer” comments Schull.

“We highly encourage citizens to come out and enjoy our local park systems.  We just ask our community to adhere to local ordinances and regulations to ensure the safety of people, pets and all park users” says Washoe County District Park Manager, Bryan Harrower. 

The list of parks and designated off-leash areas can be found on Washoe County Regional Animal Service’s webpage at www.washoeanimals.com.