OHS Position Statement: Euthanasia of Companion Animals at the OHS
An important part of the OHS Mission is to provide a safe haven for all companion animals in need.
The OHS keeps every adoptable animal until the right home is found, regardless of length of stay.
The OHS accepts that euthanasia is considered necessary when an animal is:
- suffering severely or incurably;
- professionally assessed as not suitable for adoption, either medically and/or behaviourally, using a best practices protocol.
The OHS supports the use of only the most humane methods of euthanasia available, and that those methods are performed only by trained veterinary personnel, assuring minimal discomfort, fear, or anxiety.
The OHS believes that responsible ownership of companion animals, especially through training, spaying/neutering and proper identification reduces the necessity of euthanasia.
Revised statement approved by the OHS Board of Directors November 2008
