On Thursday, 39 dogs and puppies departed the Lawrence County Dog Shelter, on their way to adoption in several destinations across North America.

The monthly pick-ups of animals are done in coordination with a group in Scioto County, but due to the large number of animals, last week, 39 in total, the pick-up point took place in Ironton.

The shelter operates as a low-kill institution, euthanizing only in worst-case scenarios where an animal is not fit for adoption.

Thursday’s pick-up was done with help from two local animal rescue groups, One-by-One Animal Advocates and Sylvia’s Sanctuary, and the dogs will be taken to adoption agencies throughout the U.S. and Canada.

A lot of work and planning goes into the effort to avoid mass euthanization and find homes for all unwanted animals.

We salute poundkeeper Melissa Nicely and all involved who have been a part of this program.

And, in order to keep the animal population under control and reduce the needs of the shelter, we encourage everyone to get their pet spayed or neutered and to donate needed supplies to their effort.