Nye County animal services temporarily closes public access on Sundays citing understaffing; officials ask for volunteers

Nye County’s animal services department notified the board and the public that it has temporarily closed adoption and public access on Sundays to allow staff to focus on animal care amid staffing shortages and a rising intake.

Christie Sigmund, manager of Animal Services, told commissioners “we are closed to the public on Sundays temporarily.” She said the decision was prompted by a jump in shelter intake and the department’s inability to sustain seven‑day public hours with current staffing. “When we had chosen to open seven days a week, we had anywhere between 40 and 60 less animals than we currently have,” Sigmund said.

Sigmund gave recent activity figures: in the last 15 days the shelter had taken in 67 dogs and placed or returned 46, leaving roughly 20 additional animals compared with March 1. She described the shelter as frequently running “very understaffed,” and said that closures are intended to shift front‑desk staff to back‑of-house duties that keep animals sheltered and sanitary.

Commissioners and public commenters urged community volunteers and noted recent volunteer activity. Volunteer Bridget (last name on record) and others testified at the meeting that the shelter is overcrowded and needs more kennel attendants, enrichment programs, and office support. Sigmund said the Tonopah shelter operates by appointment and that officials will re-evaluate Sunday openings as volunteer and staffing levels change.

Commissioners asked staff to return with proposals to address staffing and to consider appointment-based operations where appropriate.