NHS: Carson animal shelter OK during restructuring

In the wake of a major shakeup at the Nevada Humane Society, the Carson City Animal Shelter run by the nonprofit is continuing normal operations going into summer, according to a statement sent to the Appeal on Tuesday.

“The board wishes to reiterate that Carson City operations are continuing and encourages the public to remember there are still many animals in need of a loving, supportive home,” reads the statement from the NHS Board of Directors.

In an earlier May 10 statement posted to the NHS website, the board said it accepted the resignation of former CEO Greg Hall, who resigned after complaints surfaced about his leadership and the organization.

“Hall’s resignation follows recent allegations pertaining to the staff, resources and operations within this organization. The board is considering all allegations with the utmost gravity and enacting appropriate investigations,” reads the May 10 statement.

It further stated the organization will be working with third parties to investigate how NHS has cared for animals in the past as well as to examine management practices by both executives and the board. Former NHS Board President Kris Wells, Treasurer Stephanie Berggren and Secretary Paula Thompson resigned earlier this month, the Reno Gazette Journal reported.

On May 9, Raymond Gonzalez was elected board president. By then, internal investigations had already begun.

“At this time, the organization maintains it has achieved a 95 percent lifesaving rate (which it has maintained since 2012) in Washoe County as well as a 95 percent lifesaving rate in Carson City, where the (organization) expanded in 2014,” reads the May 10 statement.

Hall himself presented the lifesaving rates and other data at a Carson City Board of Supervisors meeting in February. The city last contracted with NHS in 2019 for a 10-year term. When NHS took over Carson City Animal Services in 2014, the lifesaving rate of animals handled by the city was about 55 percent, Hall previously told the Appeal.

“Carson City appreciates the partnership it has with the Nevada Humane Society and looks forward to a seamless transition under the new leadership,” Nancy Paulson, city manager, said Tuesday.

In a message to donors, NHS officials said Jerleen Bryant was hired as interim CEO as the board searches for a permanent leader. Bryant previously served as CEO of the Maui Humane Society.

“She has extensive experience in this world and knows many of the key collaborators in the Northern Nevada animal welfare community,” the NHS told donors. “The board had several conversations with multiple candidates and feels confident Ms. Bryant is a knowledgeable industry veteran who will be an asset to the Nevada Humane Society as we move forward.”

For information on NHS, visit https://nevadahumanesociety.org.