I’m struggling to feed my companion animals. Where can I get help?

Download our Pet Food Assistance document, which lists organizations in Mahoning County and the surrounding areas that provide pet food to those in need. Each organization has its own eligibility requirements, so please contact them before visiting.

Where can I find low-cost spay and neuter clinics in Mahoning County and the surrounding areas?

Download our Low-Cost Spay and Neuter Clinics document. Spaying and neutering prevents unplanned litters and is healthier for your pets.

My pet is having a medical emergency. Where are the closest emergency rooms and urgent care locations for pets?

Download our Pet Emergency Services document. Contact each location before visiting to verify hours and the types of pets they treat.

What can I do about animal abuse and neglect in Mahoning County?

First, check on your family, friends, and neighbors regularly and make sure the humans and animals are all ok. It is especially important to check on senior citizens.

• If you suspect animal neglect or abuse, contact the Humane Department at Animal Charity of Ohio at 330-788-1064 Option 3 ​OR ACOhumanedepartment@gmail.com. Make sure to include a physical address. If you don’t know the building number, provide the closest one.

• If you feel a general welfare check on the people in the home is in order, call your local police.

• DO NOT HESITATE TO CALL! YOU MIGHT BE THE ONLY ONE HELPING THAT ANIMAL!

Second, our animal welfare laws need to be strengthened, and penalties for animal abusers should be harsher. Please see our Legislation page for information about the state and federal bills we are supporting. There are links to information about each bill as well as sample letters you can use to contact your legislators.

Third, please join our public Facebook group to stay up to date on animal welfare in Mahoning County, as well as our Facebook page to keep up with our events.

Animal abuse is often intertwined with domestic, child, and elderly abuse. How can I report human abuse and neglect in Mahoning County?

• To report elder abuse or neglect in Mahoning County, call Adult Protective Services at (330) 884-6952 or (330) 884-6931. After 4 p.m. and on weekends, please call the Help Hotline at (330) 747-2696.

• To report child abuse or neglect in Mahoning County, call Child Protective Services at (330) 941-8888. They are available 24 hours.

• If you are experiencing domestic violence in Mahoning County, call Sojourner House: Domestic Violence Hotline and Shelter at (330) 747-4040.

• If you are experiencing homelessness in Mahoning County, call Help Network of Northeast Ohio at (330)747-2696.

• Find nearby Safe Havens for Pets for those experiencing domestic violence and/or homelessness. Enter your zip code into the directory and you will see a list of Safe Haven shelters in your area. Some will allow you to take your pets with you to the shelter, and some will pay for your pets to be safely boarded.

• PLEASE GET YOURSELF AND YOUR PETS TO SAFETY.

How can I support Mahoning County Animal Advocates (MCAA)?

There are several ways you can help! Click on the blue links to learn more.

Donate- We operate on donations from generous people like you. We accept monetary donations, gift cards, and donations of pet food.

Purchase- Grab a Philadelphia Candies chocolate bar from one of our partnering businesses. Every bar purchased helps feed hungry companion animals through our pet food assistance program.

Volunteer- We are looking for crafters, bakers, and those willing to help with fundraisers, vendor shows, and other events.

Business Partner- If you have a local business, please consider helping us sell chocolate bars, hosting a pet food drive for us, or becoming a sponsor!

Can I surrender my pets to MCAA?

We are not a rescue or shelter, so we do not take pets. Please check the Animal Welfare Directory page for a list of shelters and rescues that might be able to help you.

There are many agencies, organizations, and businesses listed in the directory that offer services that may help you keep your pets. Please exhaust all options before choosing to surrender your pets. Most shelters and rescues are full due to the overwhelming number of people wanting to surrender their pets.