We are volunteers at the Ashland County Dog Shelter. Every day, we walk these dogs, pet them, cuddle them and engage in enrichment activities with them like K9 Nose Work. These dogs are brilliant, loving beings let down by humans, here for a second chance. The shelter is a beautiful, new multi-million dollar facility with empty kennels and space to grow. Yet, the Ashland County Commissioners have proposed a policy to euthanize any dog who has been at the shelter for over a year. Policy goes into effect 1/16/2024. Humans letting these innocent dogs down again.

This is not just heartbreaking; it's unnecessary. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), around 670,000 shelter dogs are euthanized each year in America - a number that has been steadily decreasing thanks to efforts from organizations and individuals alike who believe every life matters.

In Ohio alone, there has been significant progress in reducing this number through adoption events and awareness campaigns about responsible pet ownership. The proposed policy by our county commissioners threatens this progress.

We understand that resources can be limited but believe there must be other solutions than ending these innocent lives prematurely - such as increased funding for shelters or more robust adoption programs.

We urge you to stand with us against this cruel proposal by signing this petition today. Let's show our county commissioners that we value all life and demand they seek alternative solutions rather than resorting to euthanasia for our long-term shelter dogs. Save Fletch, Ryker, Fiddler, Roxy, Mabel, Georgia, Timmy, Luna, Darla. Rumor, Disko, and Blaire!

IF YOU DONATE HERE, IT WILL GO TO CHANGE.ORG AND NOT THE DOGS.