Target: Marli Drum, Superintendent of Columbia Animal Services
Goal: Ensure a thorough investigation into the alleged inhumane disposal of euthanized animals and enforce compassionate practices.
A recent video causing public outcry depicts a frozen dog, seemingly lifeless, being discarded into a dumpster at Columbia Animal Services. The footage, showing the animal’s stiff body hitting the dumpster’s rim, has raised significant concerns about the shelter’s practices and ethics. While Columbia Animal Services claims this method is a standard industry practice, the visual impact of this video suggests a disturbing lack of compassion and respect for animal life.
Allegedly, this incident occurred during a period when the shelter’s incinerator was non-operational, forcing them to resort to landfill disposal. However, the graphic nature of the video, coupled with the shelter’s high euthanasia rate, points towards a possible deeper issue. The shelter admits to euthanizing over 1,000 animals annually, raising questions about their commitment to animal welfare and the necessity of such high euthanasia rates.
The necessity for a thorough investigation into these practices is clear. Public trust in the shelter’s operations has been compromised. Allegations of healthy animals being euthanized and the graphic disposal method demand scrutiny. Implementing humane practices and reducing the euthanasia rate must be a priority. This shelter, and others like it, should strive to become a haven for animal welfare, not a source of distress and controversy. Take immediate action.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Marli Drum,
We are deeply troubled by the recent revelations about Columbia Animal Services’ handling of euthanized animals. The video showing a frozen dog being discarded into a dumpster is not only distressing but also raises serious questions about the shelter’s practices. We demand a comprehensive investigation into these allegations and a commitment to humane practices in the treatment and disposal of animal remains.
The high euthanasia rate at your shelter, coupled with the method of disposal, suggests a need for immediate reform. Over 1,000 animals euthanized annually and the apparent lack of compassion in their final moments paint a grim picture of the shelter’s operations. We urge you to review and revise these practices, ensuring that every animal is treated with dignity and respect, even in death.
Your shelter has a responsibility to uphold the highest standards of animal welfare. This includes not only the treatment of living animals but also the respectful handling of those who have been euthanized. We expect immediate action to be taken to address these concerns, with a transparent and thorough investigation, followed by the implementation of more humane practices.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Alex Kehr
