Sammie’s Friends, the nonprofit that operates the Nevada County Animal Shelter in partnership with the County of Nevada maintained its no-kill status in 2024, according to Best Friends Animal Society’s annual report. This means more than 90% of the dogs and cats that entered this year were saved.
According to Best Friends Animal Society, a 90% save rate is the nationally recognized benchmark to be considered “no-kill,” factoring that approximately 10% of pets who enter shelters have medical or behavioral circumstances that warrant humane euthanasia.
“The Nevada County Animal Shelter does not euthanize for space ever,” said Emily Hornick, Sammie’s Friends shelter director. “Our euthanasia decisions are solely based on medical or behavioral reasons.”
Supervisor Lisa Swarthout said the community should be proud of its no-kill status. “This reflects the strength of our community partnerships and our shared commitment to giving every animal the best possible chance at a happy, healthy life,” she said.
The County and Sammie’s Friends are working on developing a hybrid program that will align resources and expertise to further improve outcomes for animals in the community. The shared goal is to place animals in safe and loving forever homes.
The Nevada County Animal Shelter is at 14647 McCourtney Road in Grass Valley. For more information, visit www.sammiesfriends.org.