Friends of the Morrow County Dog Shelter is a volunteer-run, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the well-being of dogs at the Morrow County Dog Shelter. Our mission is to raise funds for medical care, enrichment, and critical needs—especially for the sick, injured, and vulnerable dogs that county resources alone can’t fully support.
We also assist with community outreach and education by promoting and supporting the programs already in place at the shelter.
Our Roots
We were founded in the winter of 2013 with a specific goal: to raise funds for a new shelter building. At the time, the Morrow County Dog Shelter was located in a flood-prone area behind the county fairgrounds. Repeated flooding had taken a toll on the facility—and tragically, three dogs were lost in 2013 alone.
Thanks to a generous donation from a private citizen in 2014, a new shelter was designed, built, and opened in September 2015. With the physical building secured, our focus shifted to what matters most: helping the dogs who need extra care and attention.
Evolving to Meet New Needs
While we continue to fund medical care and specialized treatment for shelter dogs, our mission has grown. We now invest heavily in shelter enrichment and quality-of-life improvements—from installing heating and air conditioning in previously unconditioned areas to building outdoor play yards where dogs can exercise, relax, and just be dogs.
These upgrades not only create a more humane and stress-reducing environment for the animals, but also help improve their chances of adoption by allowing potential adopters to see the dogs at their best. As needs arise, we remain committed to improving the lives of shelter dogs in both big and small ways.
Why We’re Needed
The shelter is funded by county budgets and dog license fees. While that covers basic operations, it often falls short when dogs arrive sick, injured, or in need of specialized treatment. That’s where we step in.
Our organization bridges that gap—covering medical costs and improving the chances for each dog to be adopted into a loving, permanent home.
Community at the Heart
We are deeply rooted in the Morrow County community and work hand-in-hand with local individuals, businesses, and organizations to raise awareness and encourage involvement. Pet overpopulation and animal welfare are local issues, and it takes a community effort to make lasting change.
Our volunteers, sponsors, and supporters make this work possible. Whether you donate, share adoptable dogs, volunteer your time, or help spread the word, you’re part of a compassionate network creating real impact—one tail wag at a time.
Friends of the Morrow County Dog Shelter is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. All donations are tax-deductible. Thank you for supporting our mission!