Ashleigh Bogardus, who started the pound in 2023, announced on Facebook that Pups & Paws Pound will no longer be serving as the animal pound for the city and county. She also announced the decision in an email to Webster County Supervisor Niki Conrad.

“This was a very hard decision that has been thoroughly made,” said Bogardus. “With the animal crisis at the highest it’s been, shelters are so full with surrendered animals and there is nowhere for our pound animals to go. We try our absolute hardest to never euthanize an animal, unless absolutely necessary, and because of that, we keep animals in our care for months on end with no financial help. As one person – mentally, physically, and financially — I can’t do this by myself.”

Bogardus has partnered with Webster County Animal Protection and taken in more than 1,000 animals, including those seized by law enforcement.

In May 2023, the Fort Dodge City Council approved a five-year contract with Bogardus. It also provided 30 kennels to the pound.

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Webster County Animal Protection, owned by Kaila Benson, could potentially take over the pound beginning July 1.

“Thank you to everyone that has stepped up and helped with our pound chores, those who have donated and contributed to our vet bills, volunteers, and adopters,” said Bogardus. “Our animals in our care had the best time here with all the toys, treats, and food that was donated.”

Webster County Animal Protection has provided animal control services to the county since 2022.

“Webster County Animal Protection has always been proud of the work Ashleigh has done, and we wish her the best in all things,” said Webster County Animal Protection owner Kaila Benson. “She provided excellent care to the lost and homeless animals of Webster County and we are hopeful to do the same.”

City and county leaders are expected to meet this month to discuss the pound’s contract moving forward.