This month, the Elko Area Chamber proudly shines the spotlight on L.A.S.S.O. (Local Animal Shelter Support Organization), a private fundraising entity dedicated to supporting the Elko Animal Shelter. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, L.A.S.S.O. has been instrumental in raising funds to establish and sustain the Dumke/Weeks Spay/Neuter Clinic through private grants, donations, and bequests. Notably, the L.A.S.S.O. Board operates without any paid staff, underscoring its volunteer-driven mission.

Motivation:
L.A.S.S.O. is committed to eliminating animal overpopulation and euthanasia through its spay/neuter programs for animals adopted from the Elko Animal Shelter. Additionally, the organization promotes animal welfare projects to create a compassionate community for pets and their owners. A growing concern about animal overpopulation and rising euthanasia rates led a group of dedicated citizens, including veterinarian Dr. Jack O. Walther, City Manager Curtis Calder, Elko Animal Shelter Manager Karen Walther, attorney Grant Gerber, and L.A.S.S.O. President Vivian Wright, to take action.

Chamber Partnership:

L.A.S.S.O. values its partnership with the Elko Area Chamber, which has helped publicly thank donors, animal adopters, rescue and foster groups, and raise awareness about the Elko Animal Shelter’s dedicated staff and the L.A.S.S.O. Board.

Accomplishments & Successful Outcomes:

L.A.S.S.O.’s efforts have resulted in the creation of a fully operational spay/neuter facility, featuring:

- Two fully equipped surgery rooms and a recovery room with kennels

- Separate isolation kennels, medical supply storage, and a consulting room

- A public intake lobby, manager’s office, employee breakroom, and restroom

Beyond the clinic, L.A.S.S.O. also remodeled the original kennel building, increasing the cat kennels from 4 to 18 and enhancing dog kennels. They added outdoor exercise yards, a humane holding area for vulnerable animals, outdoor isolation kennels, security fencing, and a security system.

- Over 8,000 shelter animals have been spayed or neutered.

- In 2023 and 2024, the Elko Animal Shelter achieved a “No Kill” status by significantly reducing euthanasia rates.

- In 2024 alone, 1,854 animals were adopted or returned to their owners.

Support L.A.S.S.O in 2025:

L.A.S.S.O. aims to continue its impactful work at the Elko Animal Shelter. Your support can help make another successful year possible.

info@lassoelko.org | www.lassoelko.org | P.O. Box 1333, Elko, NV 89803