Group pleas for more humane euthanasia at Garland shelter

From www.wfaa.com:
By STEVE STOLER / WFAA-TV
GARLAND - Two thirds of the animals in a shelter in Garland are being put down. However, it isn't the number, but the way in which those animals are being euthanized that spurred over a dozen to speak out at a Garland City Council meeting Tuesday night.

While the topic wasn't on the agenda, those who favor injections over carbon monoxide gassing spoke out in hopes council members were listening. Seventy-five percent of all animals put down at the Garland Animal Shelter are euthanized by gas.

Thirteen people spoke out in favor of lethal injection, which they say means less suffering for the dogs and cats.

"We're the only Texas city with 100,000 or more that still uses this gas," said Diane Wright, a Garland resident. "I don't understand how the city of Garland can be ahead of its time on so many issues and yet behind the eight ball on this one."

Garland health officials say carbon monoxide and lethal injection by Sodium Pentothal are equally humane. They claim putting down animals solely by lethal injection would take more time and manpower.

"The injection is more personal, more up close," said Jason Chessher, Garland Environmental Health. "The carbon monoxide is a little less personal and a little easier on the staff."

The pleas for more humane euthanasia brought tears to some in the audience.

"I believe it's very barbaric, very horrible, very inhumane," said one person speaking before council members.

The animal advocates say that the injections are the preferred way to put animals down by the American Veterinary Medical Association. They also said it helps prevent exposure of carbon monoxide for employees.

"I feel like the city of Garland should take our next step in our city's growth and do away with this barbaric practice," said Crystal McMichael, a Garland resident.

Since the topic wasn't on the agenda, council members couldn't respond. However, Mayor Ronald Jones said they were listening.

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More articles about this issue:
Dallas Morning News - 9/19/09
DMN Investigates: Garland animal shelter illegally killed cats, dogs, records show

Dallas Rescue Examiner - 9/18
Despite what the Dallas Morning News says, the gassing issue in Garland is far from dead

Dallas Morning News - 9/17/09
Garland says gassing at animal shelter to continue