Lucas County proclaims July 2–6 "Fido Freedom Days," waives impound fees for licensed dogs and OKs moving‑services advertisement for shelter relocation

The Lucas County Board of Commissioners on July 1 proclaimed July 2–6, 2025, as Fido Freedom Days and approved a resolution to waive impound fees for dogs impounded during that holiday period if the dog’s guardian has a current license. Commissioners also authorized advertising for moving services to support the Canine Care & Control Department’s relocation from 410 South Erie Street to a new facility at 1301 Monroe Street.

Kim, a representative of Lucas County Canine Care & Control, told commissioners the holiday‑weekend waiver helps reunite dogs with their families and keeps shelter populations manageable. “This program definitely helps get dogs back, reunited with their families even faster, which is where they belong in the first place,” Kim said. The department reported it took in more than 50 dogs over the same extended holiday weekend last year.

The resolution waives impound fees only for dogs with a current license; a late‑license penalty applies to owners who license during the waiver period. The board then heard from Jeff Nowak of Facilities, who said construction at the new building is nearing substantial completion and staff expect to train and move in the coming months. The facilities resolution authorizes advertising for moving services (furniture, veterinary and canine supplies, and transportation support) to support the relocation; the department plans to use county staff to move animals but included outside moving support in the resolution in case additional help is needed.

Both the proclamation and the authorization to advertise moving services passed on roll calls with Commissioners Cabecki, Gerken and Lopez voting yes. During the presentation commissioners and staff noted a dog available for adoption, Julip, who had been in county care for more than a month.