Huron County shelter dogs may soon get regular walks from volunteers
A longtime support group for the county dog warden has the go-ahead to start a small dog-walking program and is taking names now, though paperwork has to be finished before the first shift.
Dogs waiting for homes at the Huron County dog warden's shelter in Norwalk could soon be getting regular walks from people in the community.
Friends of the Huron County Dog Warden said Sept. 21 that county commissioners and the dog warden have signed off on its plan for a formal volunteer program. The walks can't start quite yet. Insurance and legal details still have to be settled, and the standards, waivers and application volunteers will use are still being written.
The all-volunteer group has worked alongside the dog warden's office since 2012, helping dogs find homes, arranging transfers to rescue groups and lining up rides to get them there.
A small program, by design
The first round will be deliberately small. The program will take no more than 10 volunteers, with only two at the shelter at any one time. Walkers must be at least 18, be approved by the dog warden's office and complete a shelter safety orientation before a first shift.
Shifts will be scheduled in advance, and the group has stressed that showing up matters. A missed shift means a dog misses its exercise. The group describes the commitment as an hour or two at a time. Joining the interest list or applying doesn't guarantee a spot.
You don't have to live in Huron County to be considered. Asked on Facebook whether walkers from other counties could apply, the group said it didn't expect that to matter and that the dog warden has the final say.
How to get on the list
To be considered, send a direct message to Friends of the Huron County Dog Warden on Facebook, or comment on the group's interest-list post, with your full name, phone number and email address. The group will reach out once applications are ready. If the group has already confirmed you're on the list, you don't need to sign up again.
People who can't commit to regular shifts can still help. The group has posted a list of everyday supplies the shelter needs, such as food and blankets.
Bigger plans
The group also pointed to longer-term work:
- A new shelter. The county is working to secure land for a new building. No site, cost or timeline has been announced.
- Nonprofit status. The group's 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status is pending. Once it's in place, the group can raise money for the dogs directly.
- Spay and neuter help. The group plans to help start a community spay and neuter program, targeted for 2027.
The dog warden's shelter is at 130 Shady Lane Drive, Building E, in Norwalk, and can be reached at 419-668-9773 on weekdays.