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The Wright-Poling Pickaway County Dog Shelter is a celebrated part of our community, and a big part of what makes it great is Partners for Paws, a group of local animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter dogs.

President JoEllen Jacobs told us that the dog shelter wasn’t always the facility it is today. “There was no air conditioning during the summer, and there were only nine dog cages available.” Euthanasia rate was 80% at a time when the national average was 60%.

In 2005, Jeanine McDowell and Pickaway County Commissioner Glenn Reeser decided that something needed to be done. “Jeanine and Glenn’s goal was to raise enough funds to build a new facility in Pickaway County,” says Jacobs. They recruited volunteers to help with the task. “Three of their first recruits were [Glenn’s wife] Linda, Robin Ash, and her mother, Kathy Mattingly. I would like to express my thanks to Linda, Robin and Kathy… fifteen years later, they are still volunteering for Paws!”

The group of volunteers raised $25,000 to gain the county commissioners’ support. Gracious support from locals Sheila and Drexel Poling, as well as funds from the estate of the late Mary Virginia Crites-Hannan helped make their dream a reality. But time and treasure weren’t the only contributions locals made.

“Paws was also fortunate to know an experienced architect,” explains Jacobs. Gene Mattingly offered to design the new shelter for free.

Since then, Partners for Paws has taken on a special mission: supporting the Wright-Poling Dog Shelter and homeless pups in Pickaway County. “Each year, Paws pays 100 percent of all vet services. Each dog is current on their vaccines, thanks to Paws,” says Jacobs. Not only that, they sponsor a spay/neuter program, offering vouchers to anyone who adopts a dog from the shelter.

So, what’s the best thing about being a part of the Pickaway County community? “My favorite part is interacting with our community at fundraising events,” says Jacobs. “When Paws schedules an event, I know who will be first in line to attend.”

The community is always eager to support at adoption events hosted at local businesses like Pet-Valu and Tractor Supply. Jacobs fondly recalls the first big donation she received at a community event, when a man discreetly contributed and left. “We took a look, and he had donated a $100 bill. We were all giddy. … Since then, Paws has been very fortunate in receiving many sized donations from wonderful, dog caring residents of our community. Every donation is appreciated.”

The organization certainly fosters enthusiasm in their supporters, and many love to show off photos of their own furry friends. “I often laugh because it used to be people showed pictures of their kids. No more; we hear about their adopted four-legged babies and are shown their pictures.” The most successful fundraisers have been spring and fall wine tastings, first at Slate Run Winery, and then at AMVETS. These fun events are always well-attended and guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

“It’s important to find a cause that is near and dear to [your heart]. Volunteering is not always an easy task,” says Jacobs. 2020 has been a struggle, as it has been for many community organizations. However, Jacobs assures us, “Our volunteers are always ready to do whatever is needed to promote Partners for Paws.”

So, how can YOU learn more and help Partners for Paws?

Donations can be sent to Partners for Paws: PO Box 282, Circleville, OH 43113. Or donate items to the shelter! Jacobs says, “Food, treats, [and] cleaning supplies like HE laundry detergent and bleach pods are used every day to clean kennels and do laundry for the dogs.”

“We have a saying—Adopt, don’t shop!” Residents can adopt their next pet from a shelter. Visit the Pickaway County Dog Shelter on Facebook to learn more about the adoptable dogs looking for their furrever home. And don’t forget to check out Partners for Paws on Facebook at Pickaway Cty Partners for Paws.