Dog Shelter Tour
Jeff Hardman Visits Ashland County dog shelter last Tuesday, I took a tour of the dog shelter. Was very impressed by the cleanliness of the facility. I was met at the door by a very competent and capable Arlene Beasley, office manager, a friendly face welcoming me to the shelter. She quickly arranged a tour with kennel manager Shannon Hamilton. I also met the assistant kennel manager Ellie Powell. My tour started with the exam rooms where the animals are evaluated for their health, and what things are required to tend to their needs. This facility is a stopping place for pups on their way to a forever home. Adoption is the ultimate goal. I then proceeded to the kennels where I observed the outdoor runs attached to each kennel so the dogs can have some exercise. There is also an outdoor play area where the employees and volunteers take turns walking the dogs. I learned that the dog shelter is, in a good year, funded primarily by dog license fees. I am happy to report that the staff was very optimistic that they would not have to ask the commissioners for any money for the rest of this year because the dog license fees look like they will cover any shortfall. This is my take away: please license your pup even if they are an inside dog. Think of it as your donation to the shelter. It’s not that much and it serves a very good cause. Another program that I learned about is the fostering program. It gets a dog out of the shelter, into a home and prepares them for adoption. I applaud these people as a dog may be deemed not quite ready to be adopted but the fostering process can be a middle step for a pup who may have some behavioral issues. Another organization I learned about is No Paws Left Behind which is a wonderful group that provides the funds for medical care for the dogs. They also volunteer exercising the dogs and are instrumental in the adoption process.The adoption fee is $180. But, here is what it includes:* Current Dog License * First Set of Shots (5 ways) * Bordetella (kennel cough) Shot * Heartworm Test * Microchip * Collar and Leash * Each dog is spayed or neutered prior to adoptionWhen you look at it, I’m sure the shots alone would cost that much at a veterinary practice. Also, I was told, that Ellie Powell has started an initiative to test the incoming dogs for lime disease. It has proved successful in identification and treatment for the dogs and has improved their quality of life.In short, these people really care. They truly love the dogs in their care. I was also happy to see bags of dog food, supplies, blankets, towels and other needs that were donated by the public to the shelter.If elected County Commissioner, I will strive to use the public’s money in an efficient way to support this and other programs that the County is responsible for. Thank you for your time. Jeff Hardman, candidate for Ashland County Commissioner.