A Small County Shelter’s Perspective

In the heart of our small county lies a shelter that serves as a lifeline for the most vulnerable members of our community—abandoned dogs in need of care, love, and a second chance. While their mission is fueled by compassion and determination, the reality is that they are operating with extremely limited resources. With just two full-time employees managing the daily operations, the challenges they face are immense. This is why shelters like ours need a helping hand from the community now more than ever.

The Challenges of a Small Shelter

Running an animal shelter in a small county comes with its own set of challenges. Our small shelter operates without the benefit of a large staff or substantial funding. Each day involves managing tasks like feeding, cleaning, providing medical care, and working tirelessly to find homes for the animals. With only two full-time employees, the workload is immense—and made even more challenging by the fact that one of those employees also serves as the county’s dog warden. This means they are frequently called out on emergency situations, stray dog calls, and other fieldwork, leaving them unable to be physically present at the shelter much of the time. While the team is deeply dedicated to their mission, the physical and emotional demands can be overwhelming for such a small staff.

Additionally, being in a small county means fewer resources overall—less funding, fewer volunteers, and often fewer adopters. Yet, the need for their services don’t diminish. Animals in need continue to arrive at shelter doors, and the Friends of the Morrow County Dog Shelter are committed to doing everything in our power to help them. But we can’t do it alone.

The truth is, no shelter can succeed without the support of its community. In our small county, our shelter serves as a beacon of hope for animals who have nowhere else to turn. But to continue that mission, they need your helping hand.

By coming together, we can ensure that every abandoned and homeless animal has a chance to feel safe, loved, and cared for. Whether you choose to volunteer, donate, or simply share our story, your contribution matters. Together, we can build a brighter future for the animals who need us most.

Thank you for being the helping hand that makes our work possible.