During this period of social distancing and isolation, there’s always one thing that can make almost anyone feel happier: animals.
The Nevada
The first way to help out is to adopt a new pet. Practicing social distancing can be lonely, but it can be a great time to train a new friend. Adoption fees on all pets are 50 percent off as of March 17. Adopting these animals will not only provide comfort for you and them, but also prevent the risk of over-crowding in the shelters should the staffing need to be constrained.
The second way to help is to volunteer as an emergency foster. If the shelter does reach critical capacity, an emergency foster will be called and asked to momentarily house a pet. To become an emergency foster home, emailfcoordinator@nevadahumanesociety.orgwith the following information: first and last name, phone number, types of pets already living in your home, ages of children living in your home, type of home, and whether or not you have a yard.
If you are unable to adopt or foster, you can still help out by donating.
The Nevada Humane Society has implemented some changes to ensure safety for those picking up new pets. There are hand sanitizing stations scattered throughout the shelter, social distancing practices are being followed by staff, and communal surfaces (like door handles and counters) are sanitized hourly.
There has been no evidence that dogs or cats can be infected with COVID-19, so there’s no need to worry about fur friends carrying the disease. Pets can also help alleviate stress or anxiety and bring companionship.
For more information, visit: https://nevadahumanesociety.org/covid-19-response/.
This Is Reno’s COVID-19 news coverage
‘Estamos agotados’: Funcionario del distrito de salud
Los funcionarios del distrito de salud del condado de Washoe (WCHD en inglés) están suplicando a las personas que se vacunen.
Pasajeros que se nieguen a usar máscaras en los autobuses, podrían ser multados
La comisión de transporte regional del condado de Washoe anunció esta semana que la administración de seguridad del transporte ahora puede imponer sanciones a quienes se nieguen a usar una máscara en los autobuses.
Fines possible if riders refuse to wear masks on buses
Starting Sept. 17 the penalty for refusing to wear a mask on transit vehicles, including city buses, increases and will be enforced.
More than 75% of higher ed employees vaccinated
NSHE officials said 75% of employees are now vaccinated for COVID-19, one week after publishing vaccination data.
Health District official: ‘There’s so much burnout’
Officials with the Washoe County Health District are pleading with people to get vaccinated and to show up for their COVID-19 test appointments.
Reno Phil to require proof of full vaccination and masks to attend upcoming indoor concerts at the Pioneer Center (sponsored)
The Reno Phil will require proof of full vaccination for all audience members, staff and artists at Reno Phil presented concerts at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts beginning October 1, 2021.
Staffing shortages, COVID cases impacting ability of local hospitals to provide care
Local hospitals are light on details, but they are at or near capacity, and it’s impacting the ability to treat patients. The reason is not necessarily available bed space, but rather the ability to staff positions — nurses in particular.
Governor Sisolak signs emergency regulation related to COVID-19 vaccine
Gov. Steve Sisolak on Tuesday signed an emergency regulation requiring COVID-19 vaccination by Nov. 1 for a number of state employees.
Local emergency physicians urge you to get vaccinated (sponsored)
Emergency physicians from top local hospitals have written an open letter to Northern Nevadans encouraging vaccination against COVID-19.
School district continues to grapple with pandemic challenges
Staffing shortages continue at the district, particularly in the areas of housekeeping, nutrition services, classroom aides and transportation.
Kylie Masznicz is a recent graduate of the University of Nevada, Reno, where she studied English with a concentration in writing with a minor in Communication Studies. She writes culture pieces for ThisIsReno, but her work has also been featured on Broadway Baby and Brushfire Literature & Arts Journal. Her goal is to write a novel. She enjoys art of all forms, but chooses to express her own creativity through writing, music, and nail art. She also collects Christmas sweaters and has enough to wear one everyday from Thanksgiving to New Years.