MOUNT VERNON — Brian Biggerstaff knows a thing or two about dogs.
Born and raised in Mount Vernon, Biggerstaff grew up with dogs. He was able to appreciate what a man’s best friend can bring into one’s life.
Now he’s been able to transform his love for dogs into his new role as Knox County Dog Warden.
Former Knox County Dog Warden John Carhart resigned Dec. 12, leaving the position open for Biggerstaff after being appointed by Knox County Commissioners.
Biggerstaff officially became dog warden Jan. 7.
Wanting to work closer to home doing contract security work in Mansfield, Biggerstaff became a Knox County deputy dog warden and animal control officer in 2014.
“I always wanted to do some public service,” Biggerstaff said. “I’ve been doing this for eight years.”
Biggerstaff started by going out on calls either pertaining to dog bites, wellness checks, missing dogs or random dogs wandering the county. He also helped run the dog shelter, which has a capacity to house 70 dogs if needed.
Since arriving as the dog warden, Biggerstaff is looking at the bigger picture for the office.
He’s also prioritizing and maintaining communication with the community, Biggerstaff said, such as having adoption events for the shelter, raising money for the shelter and gaining volunteers.
The office is looking into a database where known dangerous dogs would be stored, similar to what Licking County has, the warden said.
“I’m trying to be prepared for everything,” he said.
