Violating State Laws Concerning Euthanizing Dogs

While the basic task for a journalist is to remain impartial when reporting the news, there are sometimes circumstances in which it is very difficult to remain emotionally detached. And to be honest, this particular story got my blood boiling. I think that any true animal lover would be similarly affected.

According to an article which appeared on the KMBC.com website, the Missouri state Department of Agriculture has initiated an investigation of the eastern part of the state's practice of euthanizing dogs with no veterinary supervision This practice may be completely illegal. Additionally, these procedures may be widespread in the area. This violates Missouri's euthanasia laws, however Jefferson County officials claims that since funds are not available to ensure there is a veterinarian present on the premises each time a dog is euthanized, that the practice is not illegal. Jefferson County Animal Control euthanizes hundreds of animals a year without a veterinarian present.

However, the bordering county facilities in St. Charles County, St Louis and St. Louis County claim that they always have a veterinarian on the premises when a dog must be euthanized. According to Missouri law, a veterinarian must make "direct" or "immediate" supervision over the controlled substances which are used for euthanasia.

A representative of the state's Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous drugs, Michael Boeger stated that the use of any controlled drugs by shelter staff without veterinary supervision is considered illegal and a felony. However, Chuck Banks, Jefferson County's Executive Director said that he does not think that it is illegal since the state is fully aware of their long-standing practice. James "J.T." Taylor, Animal Control Center manager said, "Until someone comes along and says we're wrong, then we'll change the policy."

John Hagler, Missouri Department of Agriculture Director said that their agency started the investigation following a complaint from a family concerning their dog's death and shelter management. Jefferson County killed half of the 3,827 animals that were taken in by their shelter, according to Taylor. On the other hand, Humane Services in bordering St. Charles County euthanized only 20% of the 4,100 animals taken in.

Taylor added that the county complies with the law's mandatory supervision requirement through its contract with Dr. Sherry Torregrossa, the veterinarian hired to supervise. However I find it very interesting that according to Dr. Torregrossa, she has only attended the county shelter once in the three years of her contract. Dr. Torregrossa said, "They euthanize most of their animals in-house, and the methods they use there are out of my scope, as well as how they make that decision." As far as I am concerned there is something very wrong with this picture!

Since The Missouri Department of Agriculture, the Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs and the Missouri Veterinary Medical Board are all involved in different aspects of licensing, it remains unclear which agency should be enforcing the regulation.

According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Donna Krockenberger, a Pevely, Missouri resident who fosters dogs for a rescue group, said that she and a state inspector witnessed a dog stumbling in its cage following an injection given to a dog to euthanize him by a shelter worker. Taylor countered by saying, "The only thing we did wrong that day was forget to close the gate, so civilians came in and saw the euthanasia."

However, the county could be in danger of losing its license unless they take corrective action, according to Hagler. But what I find to be most distressing is that the Director of the Missouri Veterinary Association, Richard Antweiler appeared to be justifying the lack of veterinary supervision by saying, "that communities with few vets or resources may have no alternative but to violate the law." His organization is now looking into alternative approaches similar to Illinois which now has a program that certifies euthanasia technicians.

What are your reactions to this story? Leave a comment and share your thoughts.