A lack of space is the biggest reason shelters face the dreadful decision to euthanize animals of all types and ages. If lawmakers in Colorado have their way, shelters will no longer be allowed to euthanize animals.
“It’s about caring for our animals … people love their pets,” said Senator Rhonda Fields, who is behind Senate Bill 164.
Source: Margarita Kosior/Unsplash
The bill calls for a standard of care for cats and dogs so they receive food, water, shelter, medical care, and enrichment. As part of that enrichment, mental and emotional well-being are included along with physical health.
The legislation has moved on to the Colorado House of Representatives after passing the Senate. Animals considered terminally ill, injured, or aggressive may still be euthanized.
Shelters cannot put animals down due to lack of space or time spent in the shelter should the bill pass.
Source: La Plata County Humane Society/Facebook
Chris Nelson, director of animal services for the La Plata County Humane Society, says the shelter used to euthanize 30 percent of dogs and cats before he started.
Amazingly, that number is down to 2 to 3 percent for health reasons. He admits they even provide hospice care to some cats and dogs.
Not everyone is on board, as Senator Don Coram believes the bill will cause shelter overcrowding.
Source: La Plata County Humane Society/Facebook
Those in favor of the bill want to discourage shelters who euthanize and instead, adopt the animals out, return them to their owners, or send them to another shelter.
We’ll continue to keep a close eye on this bill.
