Fernley launches low-cost microchip program and donation-driven pet food pantry
August 09, 2025 | Fernley , Lyon County, Nevada
This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »
Randy Garr, the city of Fernley’s animal services program manager, told the Fernley Senior Citizen Advisory Committee that the department has started two programs aimed at keeping pets with their owners: a low-cost microchip program and a donation-driven pet food pantry.
Garr said the microchips are available for purchase at $15 each or in exchange for an unopened 10‑pound bag of pet food, and that staff can waive the fee for residents experiencing financial hardship. “Our big goal is to help keep pets in homes,” Garr said. He announced a microchip clinic on Saturday, Aug. 30, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and said monthly clinics are planned going forward; residents who cannot attend can schedule appointments with the animal services office.
The pet food pantry, Garr said, is intended for seniors and people experiencing housing instability and operates on a first‑come, first‑served, donation basis. Garr asked residents and community organizations to donate supplies and encouraged groups such as Rural Nevada Counseling and the senior center to share information about the programs. “If we find a lost pet, we can more easily get them home if they’re microchipped,” he added.
Committee members asked operational questions about donation collection and clinic logistics. Jackie LaVoy confirmed the phone number on the program flyer can be used for donations and appointments. Garr said donated food would be kept within the city when possible; food near expiration that cannot be distributed locally may be transferred to the Lyon County shelter so it is used rather than discarded.
The committee did not take a formal vote on the programs; members thanked Garr and encouraged him to leave flyers for distribution with committee and city staff.
Looking ahead, Garr said he hopes to expand services as the city moves toward establishing a shelter and would like to explore partner programs that could help with veterinary care for residents who cannot afford treatment.
Garr said the microchips are available for purchase at $15 each or in exchange for an unopened 10‑pound bag of pet food, and that staff can waive the fee for residents experiencing financial hardship. “Our big goal is to help keep pets in homes,” Garr said. He announced a microchip clinic on Saturday, Aug. 30, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and said monthly clinics are planned going forward; residents who cannot attend can schedule appointments with the animal services office.
The pet food pantry, Garr said, is intended for seniors and people experiencing housing instability and operates on a first‑come, first‑served, donation basis. Garr asked residents and community organizations to donate supplies and encouraged groups such as Rural Nevada Counseling and the senior center to share information about the programs. “If we find a lost pet, we can more easily get them home if they’re microchipped,” he added.
Committee members asked operational questions about donation collection and clinic logistics. Jackie LaVoy confirmed the phone number on the program flyer can be used for donations and appointments. Garr said donated food would be kept within the city when possible; food near expiration that cannot be distributed locally may be transferred to the Lyon County shelter so it is used rather than discarded.
The committee did not take a formal vote on the programs; members thanked Garr and encouraged him to leave flyers for distribution with committee and city staff.
Looking ahead, Garr said he hopes to expand services as the city moves toward establishing a shelter and would like to explore partner programs that could help with veterinary care for residents who cannot afford treatment.
Don't Miss a Word: See the Full Meeting!
Go beyond summaries. Unlock every video, transcript, and key insight with a Founder Membership.
✓
Get instant access to full meeting videos
✓
Search and clip any phrase from complete transcripts
✓
Receive AI-powered summaries & custom alerts
✓
Enjoy lifetime, unrestricted access to government data
30-day money-back guarantee
