As animal euthanasia rates continue to rise, one woman is pleading for change as Chicago’s municipal shelter comes under the spotlight, NBC Chicago’s LeeAnn Trotter reports.
Below is a statement from the Chicago Department of Animal Care and Control in response to the increase in euthanasia rates:
“Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) would like to address the high number of animals surrendered to shelters nationwide and the misinformation that is being spread about it.
Our admissions numbers have remained consistently high, with animals (cats and dogs) continuing to arrive at our facility. The CACC must accommodate an average of more than 35 animals entering admission each day.
Sometimes, with the best of intentions, people use emotional language to touch people’s hearts and minds. However, it can also lead people to share information without thinking critically about it.
The next person may be quick to share information they believe to be true, even if it hasn’t been verified. This can be particularly dangerous when the information relates to a sensitive topic, such as humane euthanasia. It is important that they are aware of the potential harm that misinformation can cause.
Euthanasia rates have increased across the country, and many shelter workers and volunteers are struggling with these challenges. This problem is not unique to us; it is a community issue that requires collective efforts beyond what the CACC alone can provide.
Compared to last year, our contributions have increased. However, our adoptions are up, our repurchases are up and our dog transfers are also up this year. It is important to note that the term “open intake” is still relevant to urban shelters across the country.
This means that these shelters are not selective about the animals they accept. They are going
welcome any animal, regardless of its age, state of health or breed.
In accordance with our ordinance, the CACC prioritizes the reception of stray animals and must ensure that we have space when they arrive and that they are never turned away.
By managing our population, we are able to use our resources for pets that
need our help. We always try to find homes for the animals in our care, but sometimes this is not possible.
Euthanasia is a difficult decision that shelter staff only make as a last resort. This is never done lightly and always in the best interest of the animal.
These decisions are based on several critical factors, including quality of life, deterioration, illness, public safety concerns, and adoptability of the animals in question.
We understand that these decisions are emotionally difficult. We have grassroots volunteers who are here in the trenches with us, trying to get the best results possible.
The emotional burden of what happens to these animals is transferred and rests directly on
the shoulders of the shelter staff, volunteers and rescuers who do their best to make a difference, to save lives.
We urge everyone to be cautious about sharing false or inaccurate information. Such information may negatively impact our ability to fulfill our mission. Instead, we encourage people to join us in motivating others to support our cause, whether through volunteering, adoption, or promoting responsible pet ownership in our community. »