Josh Klumpe | Why Easier Adoptions Lead to Greater Impact
Josh Klumpe | Why Easier Adoptions Lead to Greater Impact
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After more than 17 years in animal control, Josh Klumpe stepped into a new role as Executive Director of the Humane Society for Greater Lafayette in Indiana. His experience working in law enforcement, handling challenging cases, and leading animal control teams helped prepare him to build a new humane society focused on transparency, accessibility, and practical solutions.
During his time in animal control, Josh worked to professionalize the department, strengthen case prosecution, and establish greater accountability. Today, he brings that same determination to shelter operations, where he sees animal control and shelter services as closely connected parts of the same mission.
“Transparency will be key.”
For Josh, being transparent means sharing both the successes and difficult realities of animal welfare. By openly communicating with the public, he believes organizations can build trust, even when people may not agree with every decision.
The Humane Society for Greater Lafayette also focuses on making it easier for people to help animals. Its programs include foster care, volunteering, a food pantry, and the popular Doggie Day Out program, which allows community members to take shelter dogs out for several hours.
“We’re going to make it as easy as possible so people will be engaged.”
Doggie Day Out gives dogs a break from the stressful shelter environment while providing potential adopters with valuable insight into their personalities. Participants can share photos, videos, and report cards, helping more people learn about the animals and sometimes leading to adoptions.
Josh also discusses the organization’s partnership with Purdue University. The humane society shares the cost of a full-time veterinarian with the university, while providing veterinary students with hands-on experience in shelter medicine. The partnership benefits both the shelter’s animals and the next generation of veterinary professionals.
“It’s a great example of just looking in your community and looking at the resources you need, and looking at the opportunities and find something that’s mutually beneficial.”
As Josh reflects on his transition from animal control to executive leadership, he emphasizes the importance of adapting, supporting staff, and continuing to try new approaches. Ultimately, he hopes his career will be remembered for determination and innovation.
“Man, he worked really hard at trying something new.”
If you’re passionate about helping animals, join the Doobert community where volunteers, fosters, transporters, and organizations work together to save lives every day. Visit Doobert.com to get involved.
And don’t forget to subscribe to the Top Dog Podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.
Do you know any Top Dogs we should interview? We’re always looking for amazing people in animal welfare to feature on the podcast. Send us an email at tdp@doobert.com.
