Columbus Pet Mayor - 2026 Candidates

Blue
Owners: Jennifer Steadman-Ryan

Blue would make a great mayor because he supports diversity! His pedigree includes approximately 16 different breeds, making him the logical choice to represent all pets.

A supporter of education, Blue is often heard in the background of his Mom's lecture videos for her Geology classes at IU Columbus.

Blue loves the trails and parks of Columbus and is quite the social butterfly when he attends the Columbus Farmers Market each summer and he approves of the amazing variety of smells that are found there.

Maggie
Owners: John Nickoll and Stephanie Serriere

Maggie for Mayor!

Maggie would make a wonderful mayor because she leads with gentleness and joy. She greets every neighbor, human or dog, with a bipartisan wag and an open heart.

Her platform is:

More walks.
More community connection.
More kindness in public spaces.

She loves squirrels, deer, other dogs, and especially humans. (Diplomatic outreach is her specialty.)

Her only firm policy stance? No turkey vultures eating squished roadkill on her watch.

A mayor for all species. A wag you can trust!

Dot
Owners: Brittany Gray and Mike Wolanin

First things first: Dot believes life should be all treats, all the time. As the self-appointed head of the non-existent neighborhood watch, she’s already proven she can lead the pack. Dot adores her lively neighborhood and loves when friends stop by her yard to say hello, though she firmly believes all walks past her house should require prior approval.

If elected Columbus Pet Mayor, Dot’s first order of business will be outlawing trash pickup and UPS deliveries. Yes, her humans insist this is “not practical,” but Dot knows the truth. Those trucks are simply too big, too loud, and deeply anti-nap.

If you’re looking for a Columbus Pet Mayor committed to treat equity, noise reduction, and a serious investment in nap infrastructure, Dot is your candidate.

Shippo
Owners: Ashanée Player

Brimming with energy and fueled by an unshakable love for humans, Shippo is ready to serve as Columbus's first Pet Mayor. As a proud mixed‑breed ambassador, she represents the spirit of second chances and the joy that comes from opening our homes and hearts to animals in need.

Her passion for fetch—especially when tennis balls are involved—shows her commitment to staying active, engaged, and always ready for the next challenge. While she and her feline little sister, Oni, maintain a… diplomatic coexistence, she believes every resident deserves respect, space, and the occasional treat.

With her enthusiasm, resilience, and big-hearted charm, she’s the perfect candidate to bring more wagging tails and warm smiles to Columbus.

Finn
Owners: Everett Kunzelman

Finn considers himself to be the official greeter at Donner Park or anywhere else he happens to be. If he has to “yell” (bark) to say “HI!”, he may, but he usually just nearly wags his tail off to get to meet someone.

Those people he knows, and he believes like him, get the biggest welcomes. He learns, though, if someone has expressed reservations about him, whether fear of dogs or whatever, he usually remembers and does not approach as enthusiastically. So, he is respectful - still friendly, but less assertive.

Oh - and he likes dogs, too! Loves to play with any size dog and seems to understand older dogs or others with less inclination to interact. He is just a great boy!

Rainbow Sunshine
Owners: Joan Poulsen

Rainbow Sunshine is officially tossing her collar into the ring for Pet Mayor!

A Columbus native, she greets every visitor with a friendly head-butt and purr-sonal attention. Her platform is simple: daily naps, local bird-watching initiatives, and treats for all. Rainbow leads the neighborhood watch, ensuring the squirrels are behaving.

She's made countless appearances in online meetings as her human's remote co-worker, always contributing something paws-itive to the discussion.

So, cast your vote for Rainbow - the candidate who will literally fall asleep on the job (and probably in your lap).

Millie
Owners: Magen and Matt Pillar

We met Millie on a bitterly cold day in mid-December. We had gone to adopt a dog, but a chihuahua was not what we thought we wanted. Our past experiences told us they were nervous and unfriendly. Then we met Millie, and every stereotype melted away.

She was tiny but brave, watchful but hopeful. It took months for her to trust my husband. There were clear signs she had not been treated kindly by men. He was patient and gentle, never rushing her. Today she happily plays and snuggles with him, a small miracle that still moves us.

Millie is loyal, loving, and full of charm. Everywhere we go, people stop to admire her sweet temperament and beautiful spirit. She is especially protective of children, running to stand beside them at the slightest hint of trouble.

She loves non-fat Greek yogurt, toys, and most of all, people. Columbus would be lucky to call her its first Pet Mayor.

Skidmarque
Owners: Brian Hardy

Meet Skidmarque (“Skid” to his friends) -- the heavy‑hitting, brown‑furred political powerhouse currently serving as Alderman at The Hardy Ranch.

Skid is running for Mayor of Columbus, and he’s not afraid to shake things up. Yes, he’s a cat. Yes, he’s heavier than your average candidate. And yes, he’s absolutely the most qualified feline for this fundraiser.

Skid’s campaign is built on practical values: strategic lounging, unwavering loyalty, and the ability to bring people together with a single unimpressed stare. He believes in community, compassion, and the power of a well‑timed nap. Supporting Skid means supporting a cause that matters.

So, scratch in your vote for Skid and help this lovable candidate turn compassion into action. Meow!

Ranger
Owners: Peggy Storkman

Hello. My name is Ranger, and I’m a 9-year-old Goldendoodle who would be honored to receive your vote for Pet Mayor of Columbus. I’m a lifelong resident of our beautiful city and enjoy meeting and greeting neighbors on our daily walks, as well as visits to the Farmer’s Market.

As a mature dog, I have a calm and steady personality, but still enjoy a playful romp around the yard with the kids or a game of fetch. I’m a great listener (especially if you’ve got a treat) and a friend to all (but even more so if you’ve got a treat).

I support the efforts of our local animal care services so that all furry friends have a chance to find their forever home. My campaign promises include “Treats for All” and “Nine Hour Naps” (because well-rested leaders make the best decisions).

Vote for Ranger!

Finn
Owners: Jacob Niedbalski

Finn is a friendly, loving, 5-year-old aussiedoodle that knows no stranger; he loves everyone he meets and rolls over for a belly rub. Walks and toys are his favorite, and he enjoys playing with his friends at Dog World. Finn knows several tricks, including sit, stay, lay down, roll over, spin, speak, high five, bow, dance and jump. He also knows the names of several of his toys, and will retrieve the correct ones when asked. Finn believes in fairness and equality, since he loves everyone (and all treats) equally. Finn would be ecstatic to be the first pet mayor of Columbus!

Duke Lee
Owners: Kaitlyn Spears

Duke would make a great mayor because he is a very friendly, loving and caring dog! He is very attentive and loves anyone who comes his way!

Duke loves to go on walks and really loves his treats. He is a dominant dog. While he is dominant, he is very friendly and loves to play with any toy in his sight, especially the squeaky toys!

Mountbatten
Owners: Shauna Fleenor

Mountbatten would make a great Pet Mayor of Columbus because he believes in equal rights for all — paws, claws, wings, fins, and the occasional dramatic goldfish.

He listens well (especially for treat bags), greets everyone like a longtime friend, and has zero scandals — unless you count stealing a kitchen towel.

He will lead with a huge smile, enthusiasm, loud barks and the occasional well-timed zoomie.

Monty
Owners: Amy Powell

Meet Monty Powell, the confident, friendly goldendoodle who's ready to be your community pal. With his sweet nature, wagging enthusiasm and natural ability to bring people together, Monty believes every neighbor deserves a leader who makes them feel welcomed and valued.

As a loyal companion and a cuddly friend to all, Monty Powell is committed to spreading joy, kindness and connection throughout the incredible town of Columbus. Monty is your pal who is ready to lead.

Vote Monty Powell - Bringing People Together, One Pal at a Time.

Peanut Butter
Owners: Denise Fulton

It’s time for a leader who truly listens—mostly because his ears are 50% of his body weight. My name is Peanut Butter, and I am officially throwing my collar into the ring for Mayor.

While other candidates might offer you grand speeches, I offer you a "ruff" draft for a better future. Here is why I’m the right Chihuahua for the job:

• Alert & Vigilant: Nothing gets past me. Whether it’s a suspicious squirrel in Mill Race Park or a delivery driver three blocks away, I will be the first to sound the alarm on issues facing our city.

• A "Pocket-Sized" Budget: I believe in efficiency. I require very little floor space, my snacks are budget-friendly, and I’m highly portable—meaning I can attend every town hall meeting without needing a motorcade.

• Fearless Leadership: As a Chihuahua, I don't know the meaning of the word "intimidated." I am prepared to stare down any problem (or Golden Retriever) that stands in the way of our city’s progress.

• Sticking Together: Just like my namesake, I’m all about bringing people together. I promise a Columbus that is as sweet and cohesive as a fresh jar of creamy PB.

I may be small in stature, but my heart is as big as the Large Arch. Let’s stop chasing our tails and start moving forward. Vote Peanut Butter: He’s small, he’s mighty, and he’s ready to lead!

Dakota
Owners: Anna Carmon

Dakota has been a member of the Columbus community for 15 years and loves interacting with the young and old alike.

Dakota believes in equal opportunity snuggles and kisses. She has strong opinions and knows how to voice them. Her cuteness factor will go a long way to bringing people together.

Gizmo
Owners: Katelyn Lee

Vote for Gizmo! Gizmo stands for longer walks, fair treat distribution, and mandatory cuddle breaks for all.

With a proven track record of tail-wag diplomacy and expert-level squirrel surveillance, Gizmo keeps the yard safe and spirits high. He believes in unity at the dog park, equal opportunity belly rubs, and zero tolerance for empty food bowls.

Sam
Owners: Mark Bense

Everyone in the community knows Sam. He’s like the community dog we go everywhere! He’s my best friend and he’s a rescue! Aussies are very intelligent. Sam is also a service dog. Sam is the most calm and obedient Aussie I know! We go around the community and brighten peoples day. Everybody wants to pet him. Sam is my best friend. My mom died three years ago and I tell everybody she sent Sam to watch over me and protect me while she’s gone. He needed me as much as I needed him and I don’t know who rescued who. He brings so much joy to this community and brighten peoples day. Just ask anybody in the community about Sam he’s one of a kind. We love Columbus and Bartholomew County so much! They supported me in my accident and now I’m supporting everything about this community. I love the place where I grew up and call it home .

Brady
Owners: Tricia Gifford

Brady would make a great mayor. He is loving and kind, but don't be fooled. He knows how to get the job done! He has developed great patience dealing with his hyperactive little sister. This has prepared him to be diplomatic and honest. He shoots straight and doesn't sneak around to get what he wants most, tummy rubs! He knows how to get others to pull together and work for the greater good. He loves sharing his point of view especially over your dinner. He is an avid walker even at age 77 (human years). Vote for Brady wise, kind and honest! Tummy rubs for all (and some pig ears)!

Presley
Owners: Lauren Grider

Humans of Columbus... It's time for a little less conversation and a lot more action.

My name is Presley, after The King himself, and while I may have been just a 'Hound Dog' in the shelter at one point, I'm ready now to do more than sit and stay. I'm ready to fetch results.

I've seen the Heartbreak Hotel aspect of the kennel life and if it taught me one thing, it's that every underdog deserves a second chance, no matter the breed or species. As your mayor I will advocate for every critter, both in the shelters and in loving homes -- pushing for more tail wags, unconditional love, and of course treats.

It's time for a new leash on life -- Vote Presley!

Tripp
Owners: Kevin Green

Hello Columbus! I'm Tripp, the resident community ambassador at Hotel Indigo; after a few years of greeting visitors, supervising the front desk, and accepting treats from constituents, I believe I'm ready for public office.

My campaign platform is simple: more belly rubs, more friendly greetings, and a city where no one feels like a stranger. I've spent my career welcoming travelers, charming the delivery carriers, and making sure every guest feels right at home in Columbus.

Some politicians promise change. I promise more tail wags, warm welcomes, and the best community spirit in Columbus.

If elected as your Pet Mayor, I pledge to represent Columbus with enthusiasm, loyalty, and the occasional squeaky toy break.

Vote Tripp — Columbus’ most paw-sitive candidate!

Chopo
Owners: Luz

Chopo was born in Southern California and later moved to Indiana, which means he has experienced two very different ways of life. Because he was not originally from Indiana, he brings a fresh perspective and new ideas that could help improve the community. People who have always lived in one place sometimes get used to how things are, but Chopo would see things differently and think about change.

As a dog mayor, he would represent loyalty, friendliness, and bringing people together. He would treat everyone equally and create a sense of unity in the community. His move from California to Indiana also shows that he can adapt to new environments, which is an important quality in a leader.

Chopo would be a great mayor because he brings a new point of view, values community, and represents positive change.

Bailey
Owners: Bonnie & David Boatwright

Bailey for Pet Mayor!

Bailey is a proud native of Columbus, Indiana, and he’s spent his entire life thoughtfully marking his territory across our great community. From neighborhood sidewalks to his favorite park paths, he knows this town inside and out.

As a puppy, Bailey attended community meetings with his mom, and since then he’s made it his mission to personally inspect every dog-friendly restaurant in town. He has a special love for Mill Race Park, as well as Zwanzigz. Politically, Bailey considers himself a centrist, with a strong bipartisan commitment to car rides, long naps, short walks, and greeting every person he meets.

If elected Pet Mayor, Bailey promises to use his loud voice to keep Columbus friendly, welcoming, and in line.

Stay pawsitive, Columbus. 🐾

Franklin
Owners: Alyson Eichel

My name is Franklin, and I’m running to be the first Pet Mayor of Columbus.

I started out as a rescue pup, and luckily, found a human who filled my life with treats, snuggles, and made-up songs about how cute I am (I don’t understand them, but I’m pretty sure they’re flattering).

As a senior dog of 12, I may move a little slower, but that means I take more time to appreciate the important things: parks, sunshine, belly scritches, and yummy treats!

Over the years I’ve learned a lot about leadership: be loyal, listen carefully, and always show up when someone needs a snuggle.

If I’m lucky enough to be elected, I’ll support more time in our parks and more kindness to our neighbors. After all, a rescue dog knows that sometimes all it takes to change a life is a little kindness and someone who believes in you!

Jack
Owners: Alyson Eichel

Greetings, my name is Jack and I am seeking your support to become the first pet mayor of Columbus.

As a former resident of the Bartholomew County Humane Society, there were many volunteers willing to donate their time and hearts to rehabilitate me by taking me for walks around town, visiting parks, and occasionally the ice cream shops. I fell in love with Columbus and knew I was meant to live here.

Luckily, I was adopted by a loving family right here in town! After a couple of shaky first weeks, I’m settled into my new home and have had so many great experiences.

As mayor, I would advocate for more people to volunteer at our local shelters, spend time with the animals there, and maybe be willing to open up their hearts, homes, and treat jars to share with a loving companion who just needs a helping hand.

Clementine
Owners: Jennifer Sharpe

Clementine is a dog for the people. She doesn’t bark in public places and is training to be a service dog. She can be strong when she needs to be, but she is also a cuddle bug.

Clementine would appreciate your support for her Columbus Pet Mayor Campaign!

Petey
Owners: Kathi & Fred Armstrong

Petey is the consummate social butterfly who would make a wonderful mayor. He takes three walks every day, including on the People Trail at Blackwell Park, Donner Park, and downtown Columbus. He has many friends already made and is always up for meeting new ones. We live across from Parkside School. Petey has an internal clock that tells him it’s 7:20 am and 2:15 pm. This is when the kids go to and from school. He sits at the front glass door or window and barks when the kids walk by. They wave to him. He then sits down and waits for the next children to come, he barks, and they wave. Petey is in heaven on Saturdays during Spring and Fall soccer. Kids are everywhere and he loves seeing them. If kids could vote, he would do great. They all know who Petey is and where he lives. We thought it would be fun to enter Petey since Fred was mayor of Columbus for sixteen years. They wanted to help IU of Columbus, which is what a good mayor does. Thank you for voting for Petey.

Trout
Owners: Chrissy Day

Trout is a proud Hoosier with a deep appreciation for this community. As a natural leader with unwavering optimism, he was promoted to Director of First Impressions at Hoosier Air Transport in 2021, where he puts in 40+ hours a week. A real go-getter! His ability to listen, understand, & collaborate with humans & animals of all kinds makes him an ideal candidate for the Pet Mayor of Columbus.

Whether he is enjoying our beautiful city parks, exploring our vast trail systems, or attending local events, he effortlessly embodies our community spirit with his adorable & recognizable smile. He has a familiar presence at many of our local businesses & loves to interact with anyone & everyone.

Trout’s professional demeanor & extensive exposure to new surroundings have prepared him for the position of Pet Mayor of Columbus. In his 7 years, he’s hiked the Grand Canyon, boated around the Gulf of Mexico, camped in the Smoky Mountains, encountered the vortexes of Sedona, summitted Wyoming’s Wind River Range, and climbed countless Colorado mountains.

He has attended Colts games at Lucas Oil Stadium, Indiana Motor Truck Association seminars, & even zoning meetings at Columbus City Hall. Of all the places he has been, nothing compares to the love for his hometown. With spring finally here, he is excited to be out & about around town. Trout would be honored to take on the role of a lifetime as the Pet Mayor of Columbus.

Minnie
Owners: Julia Morrison

Minnie is always looking for the next exciting opportunity and would love to be the first pet mayor! She enjoys meeting new people and learning all about them.

Minnie would certainly be a mayor for all pets; believing strongly in treats, toys, and the perfect napping spot. She would take the job very seriously as she often keeps an eye on everything taking place outside her home from visiting wildlife to a change in the weather.

Minnie (adopted from the Bartholomew County Humane Society in 2021) is aided by her campaign manager Julia (human, personal caretaker) and pawlitcal advisor Alice (cat, adopted from Columbus Animal Services in 2024).

Vote for Minnie!

Buddy
Owners: Phil Miles

Buddy is ready to serve Columbus with energy, intelligence, and the determination of a Border Collie chasing his favorite tennis ball. Being a rescue dog, Buddy knows firsthand the life-changing impact of compassion, second chances, and a loving community — which makes this campaign especially close to his heart.

Border Collies are known for being smart, hardworking, and loyal, and Buddy lives up to the reputation every day. Whether he’s greeting neighbors like lifelong friends, keeping a watchful eye on his surroundings, or enthusiastically playing ball (his true specialty), Buddy brings joy wherever he goes.

His platform is simple: more community spirit, more support for Animal Care Services, and more chances to chase what matters most.

Albedo
Owners: Kim Schaffer

My name is Albedo, and I am a four-year-old orange tiger short-haired cat. I was adopted from the Columbus Animal Care Services when I was three months old. I have two brothers, Tuxedo and Ludwig, who love cleaning me and playing with me. I love parkour and chasing leaves. Also, I enjoy going on walks in my carrier and on car rides to Chick-fil-A and Lowe's. My owner entered me into the 4H Bartholomew County Fair last summer, and I came in first in my category and second overall. I would make an excellent Pet Mayor because I love to vocalize my opinions, and I love everyone.

Mac
Owners: Tom & Mary Weiss

Hello – my name is Mac! (short for McKinley). I am 8 years old and my Mom and Dad call me ‘Mac, the Mayor’ of our neighborhood. I enjoy playing with my sister, Denali, a Siberian Husky, eating, sleeping, and eating again. I also enjoy going to the dog park and meeting all of the hooman pet parents, introducing myself, and shaking hands; I have never met a stranger!

I would be honored to have your vote for the 2026 Columbus Pet Mayor and assure you that I will do my best to ensure that every pet is treated with respect and equality and I will be transparent in my leadership (when given treats and pets 😊) I will do my very best to ensure that 1) treats and biscuits are no longer broken in half; full biscuits are the way of the future, 2) thunderstorms will no longer inflict extreme anxiety for us, and 3) uninterrupted pets and 100% undivided attention will be given to all of my pet citizens.

I appreciate your vote and am ready to serve our great community!

Marvin
Owners: Janet Tucker

As an elder statesman of 11 years and an avid IU fan, I would be a great pet mayor!

My personal assistant (owner) graduated from IU and just retired from working for the city of Columbus.

Marvin would appreciate your support for his Columbus Pet Mayor Campaign!

Brisket
Owners: Blake Fields

Brisket will be running on tough on crime platform! He’s going to figure out who those men in the blue uniforms are and why they keep leaving packages on the porch. He also intends to raise the cheese tax.

Brisket would appreciate your support for his Columbus Pet Mayor Campaign!

Penny
Owners: Matthew & Emmett Neville and Grace Kestler

My fellow citizens of Columbus, my name is Penny, and I’m ready to paw-sitively lead our city with wagging tails and open hearts. For too long, our parks have gone under-sniffed, our sidewalks under-walked, and our treat distribution system has lacked true leadership.

I believe every park deserves more zoomies, every neighbor deserves a friendly greeting, and every bad day deserves a good dog. I promise to run a transparent administration — especially when treats are involved — and to work tirelessly for belly rub equality and squirrel accountability.

My platform is simple: more walks, more kindness, and fewer ruff days for everyone.

Some candidates chase headlines — I chase tennis balls. And I always bring them back.

Together, we can build a city that works for every human, hound, and hooman alike.

Vote Penny for Pet Mayor — because great leaders don’t just talk… they fetch results!

Barnacle
Owners: Amy Merideth

Barnacle “Barn” Jones is proud to announce his candidacy for Columbus, Indiana’s first cat mayor.

Barnacle is a Hoosier through and through, born in 2023 in the Nashville, Indiana area. Barnacle found himself living the life of a stray until he found his forever home with a pair of Columbusites in 2024. Although he now spends his time in his owners’ lap of luxury and kitty treats, he’ll never forget those cats less lucky than he is and champions a campaign that would see all rescue kitties and doggies paired with a happy and loving family.

As a feline that has experienced many different ups and downs in his life, Barnacle knows what it takes to be a cat that represents all (citizens, cats and, yes, even dogs) of those who live, play and sun nap in Columbus Indiana.

Pinto Bean
Owners: Clarke Heckman

Pinto Bean is a seasoned leader with a proven track record of napping strategically, supervising neighborhood comings and goings, and ensuring every lap in town is cozy and welcoming.

A lifelong resident of our community, Pinto Bean knows the streets, the alleys, and every sunny windowsill like the back of her paw. With a platform built on equal access to treats, mandatory cuddle breaks, and the eradication of empty food bowls, Pinto Bean is committed to making our town a safer place for all!

Bird
Owners: Art Florence

Bird is the best dog in Columbus, quite possibly the world. She might have a little disability, but that doesn’t slow her down. She is gentle and kind, and also a very good pet owner herself, in fact. She has a pet cat named Foxglove, and they love to snuggle and beg for treats together.

Bird is the kind of candidate that won’t just appeal to “both sides”; she has the power to truly bring people together. Mostly to say “Awwwww!!”.

Rotini
Owners: Lori Montalbano

Meet Rotini, a 5.4-pound chiweenie with a big heart and an even bigger vision for Columbus. Though tiny, she leads with *furward-thinking* ideas, *tailblazing* energy, and a *heartwoof* commitment to every resident.

Rotini believes parks should be *pawfectly* welcoming, sidewalks *sniffter* and safer, and communities more *barktasticly* connected. She’s a champion napper who values balance, and a dedicated walker who knows the power of fresh air and friendly faces. Rotini promises more *wagreement*, fewer *barkups*, and a city full of *treatworthy* moments.

Elect Rotini as your Pet Mayor, and she’ll deliver joy, compassion, and *pawlitely* determined leadership to every corner of Columbus. Vote Rotini—because big change can come in very small, very adorable packages!

Ruffles
Owners: Lori Montalbano

Ruffles is dedicated to her pack; she truly looks out for her constituents. While knowing that she can get by on her good looks and charm, she chooses to put the needs of others first.

Ruffles is forward-thinking, protecting all from unknown sources of sound and impending danger. She isn't afraid to show her soft side and take real time to understand the needs of her community. She is a pawsitive leader who involves others--specifically, her sisters Biscotti, Trinket, and Rotini. Although from a different party, she has great respect for her niece, Elsa, the cat.

RUffles is brave and fights for what she believes in, whether its a special treat or her constituency, you can count on her to make her voice heard!

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