"Goings on" with HELP FIDO

Although our blog has been a bit quiet the last couple weeks with less frequent posts than we would like, all of us at HF have been busy with some "goings on" behind the scenes. After our work with the City of Whitehall regarding breed neutral legislation, we've become active in that community in other ways - a microchip clinic, educational opportunities at local community events, etc. Our blog has more information about those topics, if you're interested. Most recently, we met with many of the Principals and other School Administrators with the Whitehall City Schools to discuss ways HF can help with after school canine-education programs, science classes and other opportunities. Everyone was very receptive to our ideas and had many of their own ideas as well. More information to come on these events in the Whitehall School district, in the near future.

Additionally, we are very excited to have the opportunity next week to meet with Mr. Bill Bruce - the Director of the Animal and Bylaw Services for the city of Calgary, Alberta. Mr. Bruce has had a tremendous impact on the quality of life for animals in Calgary and has attained some of the best results in the world when it comes to humane treatment and education. Brent Toellners blog post over at KC Dog Blog, from last year, really highlights the achievements Calgary has made. We can't wait to meet with him and get some insight on getting on the road to similar success in Central Ohio.

New Education Program - Franklin County

As detailed in this article in the Columbus Dispatch, Franklin County Animal Care and Control is starting a new program beginning in January - "instead of paying a fine of as much as $150 for having a loose, unlicensed or un-vaccinated dog or failing to control a dog, owners will have the option of taking a class on how to be a responsible caregiver." While Franklin County and the State of Ohio have a long way to go to reach the successful programs of a city such as Calgary, this is definitely a good step in the right direction. By educating people, or actually rehabilitating them, we may be making the first inroads towards ultimately achieving more responsible ownership. Another thing that could be impacted by this could be the number of dogs abandonded in the animal shelter. These dogs are often then adopted out IF they pass the behavior test (and IF they are not "of a breed associated with pit bulls"). But that leaves a bunch of "IF's" and ultimately does not address the problems of un-vaccinated dogs running loose. Nor does it address the culture of "throw away ownership" that can be perpetuated with high fines.
By offering an alternative, we hope that many goals will be achieved and that ultimately the dogs of Frankin County will benefit.
Two paws up!