Author: Joshua Giordano T.
Founder/The Fostoria Free Press
January 8th, 2025
When it comes to the care and protection of animals, transparency and accountability are critical. Animal shelters and humane societies are entrusted with the vital role of ensuring the welfare of some of the most vulnerable members of our communities. As advocates for animal welfare, it’s important to periodically evaluate the practices and operations of these organizations to ensure they are meeting the high standards expected of them.
In Ohio, the Seneca County Humane Society plays a key role in providing shelter, medical care, and adoption services for animals in need. However, as with any organization that handles public donations and serves a crucial societal function, questions sometimes arise about how resources are managed and how decisions are made. To promote transparency and build trust within the community, it is essential to periodically assess how the organization operates.
The Records Being Requested
Why Transparency Matters
Transparency is the cornerstone of trust. Humane societies often rely heavily on public support, whether through donations, volunteer efforts, or community partnerships. When an organization’s processes are clear and its records accessible, the public can feel confident that their contributions are making a positive impact.
In Ohio, public records laws, such as the Ohio Revised Code 149.43, provide tools for ensuring transparency in organizations that serve the public. These laws allow concerned citizens to request information about an organization’s operations, including animal intake and outcome statistics, financial records, and any complaints or issues that may have arisen.
The Importance of Regular Oversight
Regular oversight is not about casting suspicion but about fostering improvement. Humane societies handle a high volume of animals, and with this responsibility comes the potential for challenges—whether due to resource constraints, staff turnover, or systemic issues. Periodic “brake checks” ensure that operations remain aligned with the organization’s mission and ethical standards.
Here are a few key areas where transparency and accountability are especially important:
- Animal Intake and Outcomes: Tracking how animals enter and leave the system (through adoption, transfer, or euthanasia) provides insight into the organization’s efficiency and commitment to humane practices.
- Financial Management: Humane societies rely on donations, grants, and public funding. Clear financial records ensure that resources are being used effectively to benefit the animals in their care.
- Complaint Handling: How an organization responds to community concerns can reflect its dedication to accountability and improvement. Complaints, when addressed transparently, can be opportunities to identify and correct problems.
The Path Forward
As citizens and animal advocates, it’s our responsibility to ensure that the institutions we support are operating ethically and effectively. By asking questions and seeking answers, we not only hold organizations accountable but also help them grow stronger and more resilient.
The goal of transparency is not to disrupt but to strengthen—to ensure that the animals who depend on these organizations receive the best care possible. Together, as a community, we can work toward a future where trust, integrity, and compassion define the standards of animal welfare.
Stay tuned as we explore ways to increase accountability in animal care and encourage organizations to meet the high expectations we all share for their success.
