MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Ohio (WDTN) – Live release rates below normal, improperly stored vaccines, and false data reported by staff are some of the issues Team Shelter USA’s review claims are happening at the Montgomery County Animal Resource Center.
Along with these findings, they published 30 emergency action items to try to turn things around.
Montgomery County Commissioner Debbie Lieberman said a lot of the problems at the ARC were not known to the county or the commission, so they are already getting to work on some of the recommendations.
First, the report noted there were a number of compassionate staff members, but worked long days because they are short-staffed.
It suggested having a full staff start earlier to feed the animals and clean all of the cages by the time the shelter opens at 10 a.m.
Lieberman said filling these vacancies is one of their top priorities.
The report also suggested changing the current advisory board to an ARC task force with staggered term limits for members of two to three years.
“The more diverse of a group that we have to give us input and really be vocal and talk to us,” said Lieberman. “Actually tell the commissioners about the issues, if there are any in the future, that you’re seeing.”
Another key recommendation is developing a more effective intake protocol which includes hiring a social media director to post pictures of all qualified animals to the internet and other forms of media.
Lieberman said one of the recommendations that has already been tackled is changing the leadership.
The ARC’s former director, Mark Kumpf, was replaced by interim director Bob Gruhl who officially took over December 14.
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