Minot, Ward County reach deal on temporary dog pound

Six-month lease will allow city to house up to 12 stray dogs at county facility

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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The city of Minot and Ward County have come to an agreement that will allow the city to use part of a county highway department building as a temporary dog pound for the next six months. The arrangement comes after the city and Souris Valley Animal Shelter were unable to extend their previous pound services agreement beyond February.

Why it matters

With the city's previous dog pound agreement expiring, this temporary solution ensures Minot has a place to house stray and abandoned dogs while the city works to establish a more permanent arrangement. The agreement addresses an immediate need, but also raises questions about long-term plans for animal control services in the area.

The details

Under the six-month lease approved by Ward County Commissioners, the city of Minot will be able to use part of a county highway department building to house up to 12 stray or abandoned dogs. The city will be responsible for the care and management of the temporary pound, including plans for security and waste disposal that were discussed by commissioners.

  • The Ward County Commissioners approved the lease on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
  • The six-month lease agreement will run through August 2026.

The players

Ward County Commissioners

The governing body of Ward County, North Dakota that approved the temporary lease agreement with the city of Minot.

Michael Frye

Minot Police Chief, who stated the city plans to have a security system in place for the temporary dog pound.

Souris Valley Animal Shelter

The animal shelter that previously provided pound services to the city of Minot, but was unable to extend the agreement beyond February 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Will there be cameras, where someone can check on that via camera?”

— Jim Rostad, Ward County Commissioner (kfyrtv.com)

“We plan to have a security system for safety and accountability.”

— Michael Frye, Minot Police Chief (kfyrtv.com)

What’s next

The city of Minot is still working to establish a veterinarian agreement for the temporary dog pound, which will be required for the facility to operate.

The takeaway

This temporary dog pound agreement between Minot and Ward County provides an immediate solution to the city's need for animal control services, but also highlights the ongoing challenges in maintaining consistent and reliable pound facilities for stray and abandoned animals in the region.