RENO -- While still restricted by state law from disclosing specific information about animal abuse cases, officials at Washoe County Regional Animal Services want to give the public some additional information about a recent animal abuse report by a contractor at the Reno-Tahoe International Airport.

On Saturday, November 12, Animal Services officials were contacted by the Airport Authority regarding a suspected case of animal abuse.

Animal Services housed the animal at its facility for four days, while its condition was evaluated by a licensed veterinarian, after which time, the animal was returned to the Airport Authority. The Airport Authority made arrangements with the registered owner of the animal to have the animal returned to him in Texas.

Washoe County Regional Animal Services takes all complaints of abuse seriously, and investigates each report fully. If sufficient evidence of abuse exists, Animal Services contacts the appropriate authorities to recommend prosecution.

Under Nevada Revised Statute 574, only a peace officer may seize an animal. Animal Services officials currently have no authority to seize or hold an animal suspected of being abused except under the direction of legal authorities.

According to Nevada law, animals are considered personal property, and private property owner’s rights apply to animals as well.