September 2026
As summer gives way to fall, we’re reminded that change can bring new opportunities to grow, connect and move forward together.
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Across Ohio, animal welfare organizations continue to share ideas, resources and support, and that spirit of collaboration makes all of us stronger. When we work together, we’re better equipped to navigate challenges, strengthen our organizations and, ultimately, make an even greater difference for the animals who depend on us.
Thanks for your support! |
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Avery's Law feedback; considering enhanced advocacy resources |
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AVERY'S LAW FEEDBACK
Thank you to all of our members who took the time to submit feedback on how the implementation of Avery's Law has impacted your operations. Your input was compiled this summer and recently shared with Rep. Miller. Rep. Miller has reviewed the entirety of our list and is receptive to considering amendments that would address some of the bigger picture concerns raised without uprooting the essence of Avery's Law. The conversation is ongoing and we will keep you apprised of any developments.
ANIMAL-RELATED BILLS
Although the General Assembly is on summer break, a number of animal-related bills will be circulating at the Ohio Statehouse when legislators return for a very brief legislative session before the lame-duck session. The lame-duck session, which takes place after the November election but before new terms officially begin in January, can feel a bit like the Wild West, with bill amendments happening daily, or even hourly, as legislators work to finish their business before the end of their terms. We know many of you are interested in staying in the know about these animal-related bills, and we also know you’re interested in learning more about policy matters that may impact your organizations and work. The Ohio Fed Board of Directors is considering ways to increase the flow of information from the Statehouse to our members, making it easier for you to follow, and get involved in, the issues that matter most to you and your organizations. Stay tuned for more information!
Member Benefit: If members would like to receive legislative updates as they happen, please email ohiofedhs@gmail.com and ask to be added to the list for advocacy alerts.
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EXPANDED MEMBER FORUM
Collective Thinking: The Ohio Fed Member Forum is a dedicated time for our members to connect online, share insights, exchange ideas and collaborate on the issues that matter the most. Unlike a webinar, there is no formal program or registration fee to participate in the member forum, and they are not recorded so they are a safe place for open discussion. In the past we've discussed topics such as fundraising, safety net programming, volunteers and enrichment.
Beginning in 2027 we would like to expand this resource by developing a monthly calendar of dates and topics. Please use the survey below to provide your input so that we can expand Collective Thinking into something even more beneficial to you.
We know it can be difficult to schedule things in the world of animal welfare because each day brings something different, but we would like to try! |
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WELCOME NEW MEMBERS!
The following shelters and organizations joined Ohio Fed during the third quarter of 2026: |
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- Clinton County Humane Society
- Heights Wildlife Center
- Helping Animals Lost and Orphaned (HALO)
- Planned Pethood
Click here for a list of all organizational members. |
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE FED
- Toledo Humane Society (THS) recently welcomed Sam Wolbert as their new President & CEO. Sam joins THS after serving as President & CEO of the Animal Welfare League of Arlington in Virginia, bringing more than a decade of experience in animal welfare, organizational leadership, and community engagement. Sam is excited to connect with colleagues across Ohio and looks forward to working together to strengthen animal welfare throughout the state. Members are welcome to connect with Sam directly at swolbert@toledohumane.org.
- The Cleveland APL Board of Directors recently announced that Ayse Dunlap will be their next President & CEO. A 20-year veteran of the organization and current Vice President of Operations, Ayse will succeed longtime President & CEO Sharon Harvey, who will remain with the APL through the end of 2026 to support a smooth leadership transition. Ayse's journey in animal welfare began as a volunteer and has grown into a nearly three-decade career dedicated to serving animals and their families. Her experience, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the Cleveland APL make her uniquely prepared to lead the organization into its next exciting chapter.
- In July, the Ohio Fed Board of Directors appointed Jane Tomsich, CAWA, to fill the unexpired term of Jana Cassidy, who vacated her board seat when she retired from the Humane Society of Delaware County on June 30. Jane has more than 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience and was hired in March as the new Executive Director of the Licking County Humane Society. Prior to that, Jane was VP of the ASPCA's Cruelty Recovery Center in Columbus, and also held leadership positions at the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League and Arizona Humane Society. Welcome Jane, and congratulations Jana!
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Sam Wolbert, new President & CEO at the Toledo Humane Society.
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Ayse Dunlap, new President & CEO at the Cleveland APL. |
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Jane Tomsich, newly appointed Ohio Fed Board member.
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Portage Animal Protective League was overwhelmed by the kindness, generosity, and support of fellow Ohio Fed members who stepped up when more than 75 bunnies arrived at their shelter in June. Cleveland Animal Protective League, Columbus Humane, Friendship Animal Protective League, Humane Society of Summit County, Toledo Humane Society, and Michigan Humane all stepped up to help, transferring dozens of bunnies to their shelters and foster homes. It was a wonderful example of the animal welfare community coming together to support one another when help was needed most. |
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Every year, the Humane Society of Greene County brings its volunteers together for a holiday gathering to celebrate the organization’s accomplishments. Last year, they had an especially big milestone to celebrate: through their monthly TNR program, they surpassed 11,265 cats spayed and neutered since the program began in 2007! The humane society is proud that its TNR program was one of the first of its kind in Ohio. Even better, they’re thrilled to see similar programs now helping communities and cats across the state. |
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Volunteers from the Humane Society of Greene County celebrate a milestone at their annual holiday gathering. |
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THANK YOU!
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We wish to thank Petco Love for their continued sponsorship of our webinar program!
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