Regarding the Feb. 23 news story headlined, “Records show gaps in process after 18 dogs are euthanized in Cortez,” the article did not paint a full history of the situation. Since September 2021, For Pets’ Sake, Paired Souls Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation, Denkai Animal Sanctuary and the City of Cortez Animal Shelter have worked to resolve the feral dog problem at this property.
Together, 45 puppies and four adults were removed from that location, as well as the trap, neuter and return of four adult males. In January 2022, the property owners stopped cooperating with all of us, leaving several intact dogs that continued to breed. FPS provided/offered the use of traps and fencing to acclimate the dogs, and agreed to provide free spay/neuter services for any of the approachable animals, as well as placement for any puppies. FPS was again turned away. Recent puppies could have been saved if surrendered to FPS for placement at the appropriate time.
The tragic euthanasia of these 18 dogs was the result of human failure to be sure, but better cooperation between law enforcement, the property owners and local humane groups could have addressed the issue back in 2022. The high euthanasia rate at the Cortez Shelter cannot be laid at the feet of the Cortez Animal shelter/kennel supervisor and staffers, but at the feet of irresponsible people whose actions cause these difficult decisions to be made. Euthanizing an animal is never easy
Lynn Dyer
President, For Pets' Sake Humane Society
Cortez
