A welfare check at a Lucasville residence turned into an animal rescue after neighbors reported something wasn’t right and a dog was running loose in the yard, untied for days, which was out of character for its normally meticulous owner.
Deputies were called out to the scene after concerned citizens said they hadn’t seen the man in several days. They also noted his wood-burning stove, typically blazing this time of year, had gone cold — a worrying sign in the dropping December temperatures.
Adding to the unease, the man had recently changed the locks, and neighbors said they couldn’t access the property to check on him.
House Empty, Dog Taken to Shelter
Deputies attempted to contact the resident multiple times before making entry into the home. After searching the house, they found it empty. There was no sign of the man, but the dog, left without proper care, was still on the property.
The Scioto County Dog Warden was called to the scene and took possession of the dog.
Shelter Crisis: A Growing Problem
This latest incident comes at a critical time for the Scioto County Dog Shelter, which has repeatedly sounded the alarm about severe overcrowding. Officials say they are begging residents to adopt or foster animals as the shelter nears crisis capacity, with multiple dogs facing euthanasia next week if homes are not found.
Shelter staff and volunteers continue to deal with a flood of cases involving:
- Abandoned or surrendered pets
- Dogs running loose due to neglect or displacement
- Owners facing eviction or homelessness
- Aggressive or unlicensed animals roaming neighborhoods
What You Can Do
✅ Adopt or foster: If you’re able to provide a safe, loving home — even temporarily — it could save a life.
✅ Volunteer: Help walk dogs, clean kennels, or assist with outreach.
✅ Report concerns: Call authorities if you see animals in distress — early intervention helps everyone.
✅ License and microchip your pets: It’s the law, and it helps reunite lost animals faster.
