CANTON, Ohio - The Malone University Athletics Department has partnered with the Stark County Dog Warden to publicize the Pioneer Pet of the Week. This is an initiative that started in the spring of 2024 and has carried over into the fall semester.
 
Pioneer athletic programs take turns visiting dogs, play with them and through social media channels, attempt to find them a forever home. Junior Zoe Zesing, a student-worker in the department, has taken a lead role in this process. “Julia Frankland, a professor here at Malone, works with the Stark County Dog Warden and we wanted to raise awareness for these dogs that need adopted. It is a great way to reach out to the local community!”
 
While on their visit, Malone University women’s lacrosse head coach Mike Jewell took it upon himself to adopt the pet of the week himself with the support of his family. Luna joined the team during the fall season and is fitting in well in her new home. 
 
"The team was excited to partner with the Stark County Dog Warden for Pioneer Pet of the Week,” Coach Jewell explained. “Several members of the team helped walk and exercise dogs in the shelter. While at the shelter, the team fell in Love with a very calm, peaceful and loveable pit mix. We took her home the same day and named her Luna. Luna has become a staple at Osborne Hall, loves to greet visitors and attends practices with the team. She loves all the girls!”