Ashland County Commissioners Recently Release New Policy and Procedures: Which Created A Firestorm at Ashland County Dog Shelter

Joe Lyons • January 13, 2024

In a recent turn of events, the Ashland County Commissioners, comprising President Denny Bittle, Vice President James Justice, and Commissioner Michael Welch, have released a new policy and procedures for the Ashland County Dog Shelter. However, this move has sparked a firestorm of controversy and concern among the local community.

The firestorm began when a post on Facebook claimed that there was a “kill list” for the dog shelter, accompanied by pictures of dogs nearing the one-year mark. This alarmed many animal lovers. In response to the backlash, Denny Bittle, clarifying that there is no “kill list.” However, Bittle emphasized the importance of having a policy and procurers in place. Until now, the shelter had been operating without any such measures.

Bittle highlighted that a shelter is not a rescue, where animals are kept for life. Instead, the aim of a shelter is to find suitable homes for the dogs, It’s just not fair to the dogs. He also clarified that being “no-kill” does not mean no euthanasia. Commenting, that to be considered no-kill, organizations should have a placement rate of 90% or higher. Unfortunately, there will always be a small percentage of animals that cannot be placed due to severe or untreatable illnesses or behavior issues.

According to www.animalhumanesociety.org It’s essential to understand that there is no universal definition or governing body that determines what “no-kill” means. The 90% placement standard is simply a widely agreed-upon threshold that organizations strive to achieve. Over time, this target has evolved, starting at 80% and then raised to 85%. It could change again in the future.

One of the main concerns arising from the new policy revolves around the rules for euthanasia. Here are the key points outlined in the policy:

Dogs shall be kept for redemption prior to destruction for the time period required by ORC 955.16 and this policy, subject to the limitations contained within.

Euthanasia will only be performed by a licensed veterinarian or licensed staff member.

Dogs deemed vicious or having bitten a member of the public, a shelter volunteer, or a shelter worker will be euthanized after the prescribed quarantine period.

Dogs that have been at the shelter for more than one year will be euthanized.

These rules have prompted a passionate response from the community, with a petition circulating on Facebook to save the dogs listed in imminent danger of euthanasia. Volunteers at the Ashland County Dog Shelter have been working tirelessly, walking the dogs, grooming them, and engaging in enrichment activities such as K9 Nose Work to showcase their brilliance and loving nature. They believe that these lives should not be prematurely ended and there must be alternative solutions, such as increased funding for shelters and robust adoption programs.

One particular program that has made a significant difference in the lives of the shelter dogs is K9 Nose Work. This training method taps into their natural hunting and scenting abilities, providing them with mental and physical exercise while building confidence and reducing sensitivity. Volunteers have been investing their time, funding, and assistance from sponsors to incorporate this training into the long-term resident dogs at the shelter, hoping to showcase their strengths and attributes to potential adopters.

If you are interested in adopting a current nose work-trained dog, sponsoring one, or volunteering to handle a dog during their training, you can reach out to Jessi at Volunteerashlandcodogshelter@gmail.com.

The outcry from concerned individuals has been immense, with many expressing their disappointment in the new policies set forth by the Ashland County Commissioners. Their belief is that these innocent dogs deserve the opportunity to be adopted, rather than being subjected to euthanasia for circumstances beyond their control. They have united to sign petitions and are determined to make their voices heard at County Commissioners meetings and during future elections. Ashland County is known for its love for dogs, and the community aims to ensure that these lives are not needlessly lost.

The recent release of the new policy and procedures by the Ashland County Commissioners has created a firestorm of controversy at the Ashland County Dog Shelter. While the intentions behind the policies may be rooted in the welfare of the animals, it is essential to consider alternative solutions and strive towards a no-kill environment. The passionate community of Ashland County is standing up for innocent lives and demanding that the Commissioners explore other avenues before resorting to euthanasia. Together, they hope to make a difference and save the lives of dogs who deserve a second chance at finding a loving home.

The next Board of Commissioner’s Meeting will be on January 18, 2024,at 9:00am

Dog Shelter Policy Manual – 2023