Dog License Coloring Contest

The Easter Dog License Coloring Contest is open now until March 31st! Download a copy of the sheet here or email djthomas@ashtabulacounty.us for questions. 

Ashtabula County Auditor David Thomas hosted Donna Yan, County Dog Warden, for a County Auditor’s Association meeting this past week. Thomas, who was recently elected as Secretary/Treasurer of the Northeast Ohio County Auditor’s Association, presented Dog Warden Yan for a meeting of roughly 30 County Auditor’s across Ohio.

“I love my job and that I can help our county’s dogs and animals here,” shared Dog Warden Yan to the group. Yan presented what her responsibilities are in serving as the only Dog Warden for Ashtabula County and her interactions with residents and animals of all breed’s. She explained that her role lends itself to helping a variety of situations including missing animals, dog bite incidents, and abuse scenarios.

“Donna does a tremendous job protecting our residents and help county pets,” said Auditor David Thomas. “Dog licenses help to fund her and our local shelters in addition to giving legal protection for pups.”

Roughly 30 county auditors and staff listened in as Auditor Thomas and Dog Warden Yan answered questions and reviewed procedure implemented in Ashtabula County. A typical day for Yan could be rescuing a lost dog, investigating after a dog bite event, helping with livestock, and speaking with residents to help educate them on proper care.

The Auditor’s Office broke a record for 2020 Dog Licenses by selling over 10,000 in one year. Auditor Thomas estimates over 40,000 dogs reside in Ashtabula County and is hoping to continue growing the number of licensed pets and compliance. “Last year we did everything from going to grocery stores to online promotions and coloring contests plus education sessions to share the importance of dog licenses,” explained Auditor Thomas.

One the same day as the Northeast Ohio Auditor’s Meeting the Auditor’s Office also released their 2021 Easter Dog License Coloring Contest sheet. The contest is the third of Thomas’ administration and features an Easter theme for kids and adults alike.

“We’ve been really enjoying these contests as ways to help promote out the dog license program and bring some color to the Courthouse hallways,” shared Auditor Thomas. The Auditor’s Office received over 100 coloring sheets for their Christmas contest and award three winners based on voting done by employees and visitors.

Sheets are available for pickup at the Auditor’s Office or on their website and are due back on March 31. This is the same day for the extended dog license season deadline. Working with the County Commissioners, the Auditor’s Office decided to extend the deadline to purchase a 2021 dog license penalty free until March 31 as delays in the mail and COVID have prevented some residents from purchasing a license.