Want to donate to our cause? Visit our link here - https://gofund.me/9d05d77e. DO NOT DONATE ON CHANGE.ORG as all those funds go to change.org charitable organization and not our cause directly. Please use the Go Fund Me link above. 

*******

Having dedicated nearly two decades to rescuing dogs and now leading a charity focused on dog welfare, I've witnessed the concerning shortcomings of the Franklin County Dog Shelter firsthand. This isn't just about our local dogs; it's about making our community a leader in humane and effective shelter management, ensuring we protect the vulnerable lives that come into our care.

Currently, the Franklin County Dog Shelter is not meeting the standards we should expect, particularly under the leadership of Kay Persinger.

Our shelter's save rate is nearly 20% below high-performing shelters,  with the last reported save rate being 75%. To bridge these gaps and improve our shelter's performance, we propose a two-pronged approach.

1. We need the Franklin County Dog Shelter to engage in strategic planning. The County can utilize industry experts, such as the Best Friends Animal Society, or others, to assist with a shelter assessment. These collaborations can provide crucial guidance and actionable strategies to transform our shelter into 90% or above save rate facility. 

This goal will provide the baseline for policy change that ensures that every adoptable and treatable animal is guaranteed a chance to find a new home, rather than facing euthanasia due to resource constraints.

To help implement this life-saving program, FCDS can begin applying for Rachel Ray Save Them All grants. The current funding cycle is open, Best Friends has indicated that FCDS is a terrific applicant, and grants can be up to $50,000. Application period is open Aug 11 and LOIs are due September 16, 2025, so timing is critical!

2. Commit to transparency. The shelter must commit to the public and timely posting of both monthly and annual reports, detailing shelter statistics and progress on set goals. This accountability will allow community members to stay informed and involved, fostering a collective effort to support our local animals.

The changes we seek are not merely aspirational but necessary. By holding the Franklin County Dog Shelter accountable and leveraging expertise from established animal welfare leaders, we can protect our dogs and lift our community to national prominence in shelter management.

Join us in advocating for these improvements and help us set new standards for animal care in Franklin County. Your support can drive the change we need for a brighter future for our shelter dogs. Please sign this petition and stand with us in this critical endeavor.