In May of 2008 we began a campaign for change at the Lucas County Dog Wardens. Our petition to the Lucas County Commissioners demanded:
- The removal of the appointed Chief Dog Warden Tom Skeldon upon the expiration of his current contract.
- The institution of a widespread public education campaign that promotes responsible pet ownership and provides access to low-cost spay/neuter and obedience programs to foster a safer, more pet-friendly community.
- The development of a progressive ordinance that defines a dangerous dog based on its actions and not its breed and hold dog owners responsible for the behavior of the dog.
- A more cooperative relationship with the public and local animal advocacy/rescue organizations.
In October 2008, we presented the Lucas County Commissioners with over 3000 signatures and a presentation of other Ohio Counties that work under the same Ohio Revised Code with a higher adoption rate, more services to the community that they serve and a valuable part of the community growth and success. Click
here to see on-line petitions
Sadly but not unexpected we got none of our demands met but an 11-member advisory committee was formed to come up with recommendations for improving the dog wardens office. The advisory committee began monthly meetings in April 2009.
On October 20th, 2009 The Advisory Board made its first set of recommendations to the County Commissioners.
- Developing a standard operation procedure manual
- requiring that all dogs be vaccinated for canine distemper and kennel cough.
- re-instating the check-off box on the annual dog license applications to indicate whether a dog is spayed or neutered.
- restarting door-to-door license checks by agency staff.
Click
here to read full Toledo Blade story
