Reno, NV… Washoe County Regional Animal Services is currently looking for volunteers to join the Animal Rescue Team. Animal Rescue Team members are a group of well-trained, dedicated volunteers who assist Animal Services staff during times of disaster, help out during special events and participate in day-to-day operations.

The application deadline is this Tueday, February 25, 2014. Applications are available online at WashoeAnimals.com or at the front desk of the Animal Services Facility located at 2825-A Longley Lane in Reno. Business hours are 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Completed applications may be turned in at the Animal Services facility or emailed to pets@washoecounty.us.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and present a valid driver’s license. Volunteers are required to attend a series of four Saturday training classes. Classes are scheduled from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. on March 1, March 15, March 29, and April 12, 2014.

When animals are threatened as part of a natural disaster or other emergency, Animal Rescue Team members work side-by-side with Animal Control Officers to help with the evacuation and care of animals that are in the path of danger. Members are also required to work eight shifts per year at the shelter and eight shifts per year on patrol with Animal Control Officers.

For more information on the role and requirements for Animal Rescue Team volunteers, visit WashoeAnimals.com .

The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office celebrated 150 years of proud service and community partnership in 2011. Sheriff Michael Haley is the 25th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County. His office continues to be the only full service public safety agency operating within northern Nevada and is responsible for operating the consolidated detention facility, regional crime lab, Northern Nevada Counter Terrorism Center, Internet Crimes against Children Task Force, court security, service of civil process, traditional street patrols and Regional Animal Services.