McCune sworn in as new humane agent for Harrison County

Lara McCune, originally from Proctor, West Virginia, has lived in Harrison County for the past 15 years. On Oct. 22, she became the county’s newest humane agent after being sworn in by Judge Matthew Puskarich.

“The process to become an agent consisted of 34 hours of training,” McCune said. “That training was provided by the Ohio Animal Welfare Federation, with the curriculum approved by the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy.”

The training included 26 hours of virtual learning and eight hours of in-person instruction on control techniques. “I also had to be appointed by the Humane Society of Harrison County and approved by the probate judge,” she said. “Being sworn in means everything to me. It means I’ve officially joined the fight for those who can’t fight for themselves. It’s an honor and a promise — to protect, serve, and be the voice for animals who depend on people like us to care.”

McCune’s love for animals began early. Growing up in the country, she cared for both domesticated animals and livestock, including pigs and cows. She also enjoyed seeing wildlife such as raccoons and groundhogs on her family’s property.

“We were pretty isolated in the holler when I was young, so the animals became my friends,” she said. “Animals and farming were a very big part of my childhood.”

McCune has lived in Bowerston for the past 10 years with her husband, Ryan, who owns McCune Mobile Mechanics and Welding. They have three sons — Raif, Colt, and Beau — ranging in age from 5 to 15.

“I became a humane agent because I believe in action,” she said. “It’s one thing to care about animals, but it’s another to stand up, take responsibility, and actually make change happen.”

Addressing questions about the ongoing Jewett animal abuse case, McCune said, “That case was originally handled by a previous humane agent. While I can’t discuss specific details out of respect for the ongoing process, I can assure you that the Humane Society of Harrison County and I will continue to follow up in accordance with the law and in the best interest of the animals. Our focus moving forward is to ensure consistency, transparency, and that every case receives the attention it deserves.”

McCune said she plans to work closely with the prosecutor’s and sheriff’s offices to ensure all procedures are followed and justice is served.

She shared a simple message for residents as she begins her new role. “Thank you for caring about the animals and the people who love them,” she said. “Every act of kindness, every share, every donation, and every adoption makes a difference. Together, we can build a community where compassion leads the way.”