BOARDMAN TWP., Ohio - Animal Charity of Ohio, Mahoning County's humane society, announced in a news release on Tuesday that it is seeking financial support for its humane department operations and veterinary care costs amid what it describes as a growing number of animal abuse and neglect reports.

The organization, headquartered on Southern Boulevard, operates a veterinary clinic, an emergency pet supply clinic and a grooming center. According to Animal Charity of Ohio, its humane department agents are dispatched 24/7 by all police departments in Mahoning County for suspected abuse, abandonment, or neglect cases.

Since Jan. 1, 2025, Animal Charity of Ohio reports it has received about 550 reports of animal abuse, neglect, and cruelty, and has rescued 443 animals. The organization notes, in its experience, that the number of cases increases each year across Ohio.

Animals rescued from abuse or neglect are brought to Animal Charity's facility for medical attention, the organization says. If specialized treatment is required, the organization coordinates care with external providers and covers all associated costs, according to Animal Charity of Ohio. The organization says medical attention often addresses chronic health issues that result from neglect.

Animal Charity of Ohio states its role differs from traditional rescues, which often manage intake through transfers or owner surrenders. Every animal in Animal Charity's care comes directly from abuse or neglect cases, the organization reports. The organization also differentiates its mission from that of the county dog warden, saying its focus is protecting animals from harmful humans.

Three humane agents, certified by the State of Ohio and appointed by the Mahoning County Probate Court, enforce Ohio's Animal Protection Laws, Animal Charity of Ohio says. These agents investigate reports, file charges when abuse or neglect is confirmed, and pursue legal custody of animals when necessary, according to the organization.

Animal Charity of Ohio operates on private donations and revenue from its veterinary clinic, receiving no annual government allocations. Since March 2020, the organization has rescued 3,561 animals, Animal Charity of Ohio reports. In January 2025, the organization rescued 40 animals over four days, incurring $40,000 in emergency costs, the organization noted.

Animal Charity of Ohio also reports its agents are often first responders to individuals living in difficult circumstances, uncovering situations that, according to the organization, involve elderly, disabled or child residents in homes with hoarding conditions, unsanitary environments, structural issues and lacking utilities. Animal cruelty reports sometimes reveal cases of child and elder abuse or neglect, Animal Charity of Ohio says.

To learn more about Animal Charity and how to help, follow this link.