Euthanized animals in our community

by Regan Northwood
November 12, 2013

Over the past two years, 2,221 animals have been euthanized at Auckland Council Animal Management West, in Henderson.

Many of these deaths are avoidable.

1,288 of the euthanasia’s that have occurred over the past two years were cats that have been picked up by animal welfare in poor health and can’t be rehomed, or are not adopted from the shelter.

“The West Auckland shelter is the only Auckland Council shelter which rehomes cats” Emma Edgar Said, on behalf of the Auckland Council.

In other shelters, stray cats are not rehomed, instead euthanized.

Dogs also account for a large number of euthanasia’s, with 933 deaths between 2012 and 2013.

“Dogs in particular may not be suitable for adoption due to temperament (they undergo thorough testing before being put up for adoption), being classed as a menacing breed, or due to underlying health issues.” Edgar said.

Together we can reduce the number of euthanasia’s in Auckland pounds- by adopting an adult cat or dog you are saving a life.

Of course baby animals need homes too, but they will be appealing for adoption for some time, whereas often, adult cats are overlooked for adoption, and end up euthanized.

To help these furry future friends, you can visit the animal welfare centers around Auckland, which are open for adoptions between 10.15am - 5pm, Monday to Friday, and meeting the adult animals that need new homes.

ENDS

© Scoop Media