My Nonprofit Reviews

I had found an abandoned newborn outside. I immediately took her to an emergency vet where they examined her. They told me she was healthy, but that they don’t take in kittens that young. They gave me kitten formula, feeding instructions, and a list of rescue phone numbers. I went home, fed her, and started calling rescues. I chose the humane society because the website said it was a no-kill shelter and I scheduled a pickup for the following day (Sunday).

Every two hours I fed the kitten and stimulated her to go to the bathroom. I looked up how much she should be eating and made sure she was eating enough. I kept her warm and safe. She was alert and eating fantastically. I wanted to keep her, but thought the humane society would be a better place for her.

On Sunday, someone arrived to pick her up. He was very encouraging, told me that she looked great, and not to worry because she’d be in great hands. He told me about the kitten nursery and the volunteers who feed them. I wanted to volunteer just so I could see her again. He also gave me an activity number and said I could call the next day to check on her. I was devastated to give her away, but wanted what was best for her.

The following day (Monday) I called to check on her. I was told she was euthanized.

I am heartbroken and angry that an innocent life was lost for no reason. I don’t understand why I was not called and given the opportunity to take her back. I would have immediately come and picked her up and given her a chance at life.

I strongly feel that this humane society location needs to re-evaluate their euthanasia protocol. I should have been notified first, given the option to seek an alternative, and the veterinary staff clearly needs a refreshment on how and when to determine if euthanasia is necessary. I cannot express my level of disgust in the way this situation has been handled.

I contacted the humane society directly with my complaint and received a response back stating, “Unfortunately, when kittens are that tiny it can become very challenging to provide them the care that they need.” Challenging is not an acceptable reason for euthanasia, especially when the site claims to be a no-kill shelter. The loss of life was completely unnecessary and preventable. I am shocked and saddened to know that this is how they operate.