Guest submission from the City of Las Vegas

The City of Las Vegas took a proactive step in addressing animal overpopulation with its innovative Spay and Neuter Awareness Campaign. This initiative not only aimed to educate the community but also actively involved local youth in fostering compassion and responsibility toward animals. The campaign’s highlight was a vibrant artwork contest that showcased the creative talents of young residents across the city.

A Community-Led Effort

The campaign was initiated by Ward 2 Councilwoman Victoria Seaman, in collaboration with multiple city departments, including Public Safety; Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs; and Youth Development and Social Initiatives. The goal was clear: raise awareness about the importance of spaying and neutering pets to reduce the number of animals ending up in shelters and to promote responsible pet ownership through friendly, engaging messaging.

To maximize outreach, the campaign employed diverse communication strategies:

  • Flyers distributed at schools, community centers, and city-wide events like the Book Festival.
  • Direct outreach conducted via phone calls and emails to the Clark County School District, charter, and private schools.
  • A dedicated social media campaign aimed to reach residents across digital platforms.
  • Signage placed in parks and city facilities, including off-leash dog parks.

Celebrating Youth Creativity

One of the campaign’s most exciting aspects was the youth artwork contest open to students aged 10 to 18. In addition to their artwork, each participant was required to create an original catchphrase to accompany their design—bringing both creativity and messaging into the spotlight.

Representatives from various city departments judged the 71 submissions, narrowing them down to a top 14, and ultimately selecting three winners whose work and messages stood out for their originality, clarity, and impact:

  • Kinsey Warren – “Take a ‘Paws’ for the Cause, Spay or Neuter Your Pets.”
  • Madilyn Caruso – “Spay and Neuter, Protect Them.”
  • Berkley Garate – “Avoid a Litter, Spay or Neuter Your Critter.”

The winning artwork is now proudly displayed on signs at dog parks throughout the city, including Doug Selby Park, Children’s Memorial, Barkin Basin, All American, Justice Myron E. Leavitt & Jaycee Community Park, Police Memorial, Kellogg Zaher, Freedom Park, Dexter Park, Woofter Park, Centennial Hills, and the upcoming Rancho-Oakey Dog Park (construction beginning mid-2025). The artwork from all finalists is also displayed at all CLV Community Centers.

Each winner was honored at a special recognition event with Ward 5 Councilwoman Shondra Summers-Armstrong, receiving a certificate, plaque, and the unique distinction of having their art featured in public spaces—offering inspiration to all who pass by.

“We are so proud that our young people participated and used their voice on such an important issue,” said Councilwoman Shondra Summers-Armstrong.

Inspiring the Next Generation

The campaign’s success did not stop at the artwork. It served as an educational platform, engaging young residents in a meaningful cause. During the event, students shared their creative process and expressed their passion for animals, inspiring attendees and city officials alike.

A Bright Future for Animal Welfare

The city of Las Vegas’s commitment to community involvement and education demonstrated that tackling animal overpopulation required a collaborative and innovative approach. By involving youth in awareness efforts, the city nurtured a new generation of animal advocates who would carry these values forward.

This campaign exemplified how small ideas—like a student artwork contest—could have a mighty impact. With continued support and community engagement, Las Vegas paved the way for a more compassionate and responsible pet-owning culture.

Mandatory Spay/Neuter Requirements

Dogs, cats, ferrets, pet rabbits and potbellied pigs that enter the city for any purpose must be spayed or neutered by four months of age unless the owner has a current exemption.

For more information, visit https://www.lasvegasnevada.gov/Government/Departments/Public-Safety/Animal-Protection-Services

Resources Available

Animal Protection Services Brochure
The Animal Foundation – Pet Support Hotline – 702.955.5932
Spay & Neuter Center of Southern Nevada – 702.240.7729
Heaven Can Wait Animal Society – 702.655.4800
Hearts Alive Village – 702.780.0002