BEDFORD — The Lawrence County Commissioners approved a new independent contract on Tuesday morning to ensure the proper care of animals seized during criminal investigations.
Lawrence County Sheriff Greg Day presented the agreement with The Dog Club, a local facility that will now handle the impoundment of dogs involved in “police hold” cases. Sheriff Day clarified that these animals are distinct from typical strays.
“These are not stray dogs, but dogs that are neglected or abused,” Sheriff Day explained.
The move comes as the department formalizes its partnership with The Dog Club to manage animals that require long-term housing while court cases for neglect or abuse proceed. Previously, many of these animals were housed at the White River Humane Society, which recently modified its agreement with the county due to overcrowding and the high cost of maintaining “police hold” animals.
Under the new contract, The Dog Club will provide professional shelter, food, and medical oversight for animals rescued from dire situations.
The approved contract outlines a specific daily rate for the care of these animals, capped to ensure fiscal responsibility:
| Animal Type | Daily Rate | Maximum Per Animal |
| Standard Dog Impoundment | $25 per day | $500 total |
| Dog and Litter of Puppies | $40 per day | $750 total |
Additionally, the contract includes a provision for voluntary owner surrenders. If an owner chooses to surrender an animal in lieu of a formal impoundment and the required bond payments, the county will pay a flat $200 for the transition of care.
Sheriff Day emphasized that these animals are often the highest priority for his department because they are frequently the victims of extreme cruelty. By securing a dedicated contract with The Dog Club, the Sheriff’s Office ensures that these animals receive consistent care without straining the resources of the municipal stray animal budget.
Sheriff Day presented the quarterly commissary report, providing a snapshot of the current inmate population at the Lawrence County Jail.
The commissary report tracks the funds generated through inmate purchases of snacks and personal items, which are legally required to be used for the benefit of the inmates and the operation of the jail.
As of Tuesday morning, the facility reported a total of 73 inmates.
