COMMUNITY RESOURCES
CONNECTING PETS AND PEOPLE TO VITAL RESOURCES
Our Resources page is here to connect you with helpful tools, services, and information to support pets and the people who care for them. From humane issues and grants to TNR locations, pet food assistance, and local rescue partners, you'll find valuable links and guidance all in one place. Whether you're a pet owner, volunteer, or fellow rescuer, this page is built to help you help animals.
HUMANE ISSUES
It is important to familiarize yourself with Ohio law to understand when the law is and is not being broken. This can help you make informed decisions when you believe there may be unlawful or cruel acts occurring involving animals.
ANIMAL CRUELTY
& ABUSE LAWS IN OHIO
RULES AND REQUIREMENTS FOR HIGH VOLUME BREEDERS:
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SUSPECT ANIMAL ABUSE, CRUELTY, OR NEGLECT:
If you suspect animal abuse, cruelty, or neglect, it's important to know how to respond safely and effectively. Follow the steps below to understand your rights, gather information, and report concerns to the proper authorities.
1
Familiarize yourself with Ohio law to understand what is and is not legal.
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and
2
Document as much of the cruelty as possible - photos, videos, witness testimony, etc. Ask neighbors if they have cameras to provide footage. If a dog is being left outside, record the days/times that the dog was left outside without shelter/food/water/care etc.
3
Report to your local humane organization. Counties can vary in their laws on who has jurisdiction over animal cruelty, but in most cases a local humane society is the correct organization to call. If you reside in Franklin County, please reach out to the Columbus Humane Society.
If you are not receiving help from your local organizations, or you do not have a local organization, reach out to the Ohio SPCA.
LOCAL RESOURCES
This section provides essential support and guidance for pet owners and animal advocates facing challenging situations. Whether you're looking for help, information, or ways to take action, you'll find trusted resources to guide you.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU FIND A STRAY ANIMAL?
If you find a stray animal, there are a few important steps you can take to help reunite them with their owner or get them the care they need. Use the tips below to safely and responsibly handle the situation while supporting your local shelters and rescues.
1
Check the animal for an identification tag on a collar, and/or take the pet to a shelter or vet clinic to be scanned for a microchip. If the pet has a microchip, look it up on the microchip registry to contact the company for owner information.
3
Dogs: Report dogs to the Franklin County Dog Shelter. If you are able to temporarily foster the dog, that will allow the shelter to have more room for other lost or dumped dogs. For dogs running loose, contact the Franklin County Dog Shelter at 614-525-3400.
2
Make a found-pet report on PetFBI, Pawboost, and post in any online local groups or communities (such as Facebook or Nextdoor), if the pet has no microchip or identification tag.
4
Cats: There are currently no organizations in Franklin County that preside over picking up stray cats. You may reach out to local rescues and shelters to see if there is any intake availability. Consider fostering the cat while looking for a forever home as most rescues and shelters are extremely full. Reach out to low cost organizations to get the cat spayed/neutered and vaccinated.
GRANTS/FUNDING FOR PET MEDICAL CARE
These resources may be able to assist if you are experiencing financial hardships and are unable to afford emergency or necessary medical care for your pet outside of your regular preventative care.
LOCAL LOW-COST VETERINARY SERVICES
In addition to our services, there are several local low-cost veterinary clinics in Central Ohio offering affordable care for pet owners in need.
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TRAP/NEUTER/RELEASE (OR TNR)
TNR is a humane way to control the feral cat overpopulation problem by fixing cats to prevent future litters, and providing necessary medical care and vaccinations so feral cats can live healthier lives. These resources may be able to assist you in various ways with TNRing feral cats:
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Local organizations:
ASSISTANCE FOR MILITARY MEMBERS AND VETERANS
If you're a veteran or active member of the military, there are resources available to support you and your pets. Explore the links below to learn more about services tailored to your needs.
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DOMESTIC
VIOLENCE
If you are experiencing domestic violence and are afraid to flee due to having pets in your home, please reach out to one of these organizations:
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PET FOOD
ASSISTANCE
If you need help feeding your family pet, the resources below offer support to ensure your animals stay healthy and cared for.
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Columbus Humane Essential Care Center
Hospets (seniors)
Sedona Grace Foundation
(donates food to human food pantries throughout Columbus)
HOMELESS AND SENIOR CITIZEN AID
If you are homeless or a senior citizen and are struggling to afford care for your pet, one of these organizations may be able to assist:
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LOCAL
WILDLIFE
For questions about local wildlife, please refer to the resource below for helpful information and guidance.
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Contact the Ohio Wildlife Center for any help needed regarding wildlife.
RESCUES & SHELTERS
This section highlights rescues and shelters in Central Ohio and surrounding areas, helping you connect with organizations making a difference for animals. Explore the links to learn more, adopt, volunteer, or support their work.
DOGS
CATS
Note: Any organization listed on this page have been shared strictly for informational purposes and do not count as an endorsement from Columbus Dog Connection.