Nevada Humane Society Will Waive Adoption Fees for Large Dogs

Starting September 30, residents can adopt large dogs at no cost in Reno and Carson City.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Dogs

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The Nevada Humane Society is waiving adoption fees for dogs weighing 60 pounds or more through October 4 at its Reno and Carson City facilities. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Nevada Humane Society is launching the Home Sweet Homecoming adoption campaign, which will waive adoption fees for eligible dogs weighing at least 60 pounds. This initiative will run from September 30 through October 4 at facilities in Reno and Carson City.

Why it matters

Large dogs often face longer wait times to find forever homes compared to smaller breeds, making these fee-waiving campaigns vital for clearing shelter space. This effort aims to help these animals transition into homes more quickly by removing financial barriers for potential owners.

Eligible dogs must be at least 6 months old and weigh 60 pounds or more. The promotion is supported by the Hill's Food, Shelter & Love program, which has provided over $300 million in pet nutrition since 2002.

The players

Nevada Humane Society

An animal welfare organization operating shelters in Reno and Carson City dedicated to pet adoption.

Hill's Pet Nutrition

A pet food manufacturer that manages the Food, Shelter & Love program to support animal rescues.

The details

The Nevada Humane Society has partnered with Hill's Pet Nutrition to host the Home Sweet Homecoming initiative. By removing adoption fees for larger animals, the shelters aim to increase the turnover rate of their kennel populations. This collaboration leverages the broader Hill's program framework, which has been in place for over two decades to support shelter operations.

Timeline

  1. The campaign begins on September 30, 2026.

  2. The fee waiver concludes on October 4, 2026.

The Home Front

This campaign aligns with national trends where shelters utilize sponsored fee waivers to address the longer adoption timelines often seen with larger breeds. It operates within the structure of the long-standing Hill's Food, Shelter & Love program.

If you are considering adding a large dog to your household, check the adoption requirements at the Reno or Carson City locations before the campaign ends. Ensure your home environment is prepared for a dog that is at least 6 months old and weighs over 60 pounds.

The takeaway

Large dogs at the Nevada Humane Society are looking for homes, with fees waived from September 30 to October 4. If you are interested in adopting, plan to visit your local branch in Reno or Carson City during this five-day window to meet the eligible dogs.

Further reading

For more information on adding a pet to your family, visit the Nevada Dogs section.

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Do you support waiving adoption fees to help shelter animals find homes in your area?