Ohio Mall Brings 20 Shelter Dogs to Families in New Way

Shopping for groceries turned into shopping for a best friend when more than 20 rescue dogs took over Southern Park Mall in Boardman, Ohio this weekend.

Animal Charity of Ohio hosted an adoption event right in the mall's center court Sunday afternoon. Shoppers could meet adoptable dogs, learn about the rescue process, and fill out applications on the spot.

The strategy works because it meets people where they already are. Instead of requiring a special trip to the shelter, families stumbled upon their potential new pets while running weekend errands.

"We're just happy to have the dogs out. They get to meet new people," said Evekly Shealy, director of development at Animal Charity of Ohio. "People get to see who we have available for adoption and get to learn more about what we do in the community."

The event also served as a socialization opportunity for shelter dogs. Meeting new people in a bustling environment helps prepare them for life in a busy household.

The Ripple Effect

Moving adoption events into community spaces removes a major barrier to pet adoption. Many people want to adopt but never make it through the shelter doors because visiting feels like a big commitment or they don't know where to start.

Mall events normalize adoption and spark conversations. A family might not have planned to adopt that day, but meeting a friendly dog face to face plants the seed. Even applications filled out on site can lead to adoptions weeks later when the timing feels right.

For those who missed the event, Animal Charity of Ohio now offers expanded visiting hours. The shelter welcomes visitors Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon to 4 p.m., plus Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Every dog that finds a home through creative outreach like this opens up a shelter spot for another animal in need.