On Tuesday, the Board of Supervisors approved a three-month extension of its contract with Sammie’s Friends to continue operating the Nevada County Animal Shelter through Sept. 30.
The agreement ensures uninterrupted care for animals while the County and Sammie’s Friends explore future collaboration and potential of a new hybrid program. Both the County and Sammie’s Friends are considering how to align resources and expertise to deliver the highest quality of care. The partners are exploring a possible arrangement in which the County runs the animal shelter while Sammie’s coordinates adoptions and foster families and the 400 volunteers.
“We’re grateful to Sammie’s Friends for their continued partnership and dedication to animal welfare,” said Supervisor Lisa Swarthout.
The shelter has been faced with significant challenges, shared by animal shelters around the state, including rising number of animals entering shelters and the increased costs of veterinary care. Last year, the Nevada County Animal Shelter accepted more than 1,800 animals and facilitated approximately 1,955 adoptions.
The County and Sammie’s Friends remain committed to a collaborative approach, working together to design a hybrid model that delivers comprehensive, wraparound services for animals and the community. This evolving partnership reflects a shared vision of innovation, compassion, and long-term sustainability.
“We appreciate the County’s trust and the opportunity to support the animals and people of Nevada County,” said Fran Cole, board president of Sammie’s Friends.