10/23/2025
Statement from the Allegany County Board of Commissioners Regarding Operations at the Allegany County Animal Shelter
The Allegany County Animal Shelter Foundation has recently and unexpectedly ceased operations, leaving the care of the animals and management of the facility in the hands of County Government. We understand there are many questions about what this means, and while we do not yet have all the answers, we want to share what we do know at this time.
For the past several years, the County has contracted with the Shelter Foundation to perform the legally required function of animal control. Because Allegany County is obligated by law to provide this service, the County must now assume those responsibilities. More importantly, there are more than 400 animals currently in the facility’s care — and regardless of any legal obligation, their welfare remains our highest priority. We will not allow them to go without care.
During a work session on Tuesday, the County Commissioners decided to temporarily contract former Executive Director Jodi Eirich and two members of her staff, along with additional support, to immediately return to the shelter and resume animal care and animal control operations. This action also allowed the veterinarian of record to return to the facility. By Tuesday afternoon, staff were back on site and supported by an incredible team of volunteers.
There remain many logistical and legal details to sort through. When the Foundation’s board resigned, it created a complex situation regarding ownership and management of assets. We are still determining who has access to and ownership of the buildings and vehicles. Utilities, insurance policies, and bank accounts currently remain in the Foundation’s name, adding to the complexity of the transition. County staff are actively working to untangle these issues while simultaneously building new systems to support daily operations and ensure continuity of care.
County staff are also compiling a comprehensive list of tasks that must be addressed. Within a few days, we anticipate having made enough progress to present updated information to the Board of County Commissioners in another Public Work Session. That date has not yet been set but is expected sometime next week. As always, public notice will be provided once the date and time are confirmed.
In the meantime, financial donations are on hold while the County works to clarify the Shelter Foundation’s account structure and establish new systems for managing funds. However, the shelter is gratefully accepting donations of Purina pet food, cleaning supplies, and other animal care items. These contributions make a meaningful difference right now.
Volunteers are always welcome at the shelter — the animals need human interaction, walks, playtime, and general love and attention. Community members are also encouraged to consider becoming foster families. The shelter is currently overcrowded, and every animal placed in foster care helps ease the burden on staff and resources, ultimately improving conditions for all animals.
To help reduce overcrowding, all adoption fees are currently waived for approved applications. While not required, but in a gesture of good faith, the shelter would appreciate donations of Purina-branded dog or cat food in lieu of adoption fees.
There have also been questions about the Foundation’s previous commitment to operating as a no-kill shelter. It is not the County’s intent to move away from that philosophy. Our goal is to ensure that all animals receive humane, compassionate care. We are hopeful that this new chapter will bring opportunities to strengthen the shelter’s operations, improve conditions for the animals, and rebuild a reputable and sustainable animal control program that serves our entire community.
The County and the Commissioners remain fully committed to — above all — the well-being of every animal in our care. We will continue to share updates as plans become clearer in the days ahead.
