A Positive Future Ahead

by Kimberly Wade

2018 is going to be a big year for Nevada Humane Society, as lots of positive growth is on the horizon—something all of us as animal lovers are excited about. For me, as I’ve shared so much of my journey over the last couple of years that I’ve fulfilled this column, there are also big changes, and I wanted to share it with you.

I’ve been in the marketing role from the beginning, initially hired as the Foster Coordinator but moving into marketing within a few months of my start date. The role quickly evolved to best fit my skillsets and for the needs of the animals, and over the last 8 years, I’m very proud of everything I’ve accomplished as well as how the organization has grown. I can honestly say it’s a job that has bettered me as a person, changed the lives of those around me and made me fall even harder for homeless pets—if that was possible!

Recently, I was presented with an opportunity to join a new team, with Humane Network (many of you remember Bonney Brown and Diane Blankenburg, who began this column), who was chosen by Maddie’s Fund to lead efforts in creating a no-kill Nevada. This goal is something that will allow all of the lives of healthy and treatable pets to be saved, to revolutionize the status and well-being of homeless pets, and to provide access to care for so many of those in need in rural areas. In essence, I will be helping an awesome group of individuals save more lives not just in Washoe County, but all across the state—and that, my friends, is huge.

Despite taking on such an amazing role, you can’t get rid of me that easily. I’ll be continuing all of my marketing efforts for Nevada Humane Society, sharing lifesaving stories, promoting our fun-filled events, and of course, writing this column. I know from the volume of comments I receive that you all love hearing about our adventures at Nevada Humane Society (and yes, even my crazy personal pet stories) so now you get to hear more—because you’ll be helping me save lives statewide.

Though our initial efforts will be in Las Vegas, a big part of lifesaving is transporting animals to shelters who have added resources and a higher volume of adoptions—hence, Nevada Humane Society, and our fellow groups among the north. Over the last month, we’ve collaborated with the SPCA of Northern Nevada to bring in dozens of dogs and cats from other places who need help—and watching those animals find love and go home right here in Washoe County is heartwarming. We don’t know where you’re putting these animals, but keep doing it, because you’re bringing so much love and support to the table that we can’t imagine not having you!

And that’s the thing. I love writing this column, sharing my journey, the good and the bad. It’s not always easy to share heartbreak, but knowing that we are all here for the animals and that I can work to bring even more people and pets together is huge. So for your support, for Nevada Humane Society and lifesaving across the state, thank you.

You can continue to reach me at kwade@nevadahumanesociety.org or by mail to NHS, at 2825-B Longley Lane, Reno, NV 89502, and I still hope that you share your stories and photos—because I’ll certainly be sharing with you.

By the way, little Meringue, who I shared a couple weeks ago? She was given the all clear by our veterinary team, and is now just packing on the pounds so that she is big enough to be spayed. I’ve found her the best family, with humans and another little dog named Bella, and they adore her already. Thank you for helping her find love!

Featured Pet: Yuki is 12 years old, stunningly beautiful and a mix of sweet and shy. Her person passed away a year ago, and though she was adopted, most recently she ended up at Animal Services, her person nowhere to be found. She’s quiet and reserved, so would do best with a cat person who understands she needs time—but she deserves love like anyone. Will you help her find a family today?