Animal Welfare Professionals

The shelter I have worked at for several years has a male dog, that was a stray, is approximately 8 years old, has multiple medical issues and does not show well. He has been at the shelter for over 2 1/2  years now.  He is wonderful with the staff, and the staff also feels safe and comfortable with him. This dog is actually happy in the shelter and actually gets a lot of inquiries because he's a cute little beabull (or something close to that). When he is shown to someone, it never goes well- he is a major bite risk due to severe stranger danger. For meet'n'greets, we have tried pretty much everything. We have had the visitors walk through his kennel and toss treats so he sees them in the same setting as the staff he trusts, and sometimes they'll do this over multiple visits. We have had visitors wear staff t-shirts since he knows that those who wear it are his "safe" people. We have done social walks. We have muzzled and given him control to approach the visitors on his own terms instead of us keeping him on a tight lead. We have just skipped the initial shelter meet'n'greet and gone straight to the potential adopters home. We have met up with people in a park for intros. Since I run the behavior department, I work with him on behavior modification, which with me, he does excellent. He is intelligent, responsive and loves to learn. There are issues of other staff allowing him to revert to his negative behaviors frequently, though "because they feel bad for him" (I know, I know).  This is frustrating because it backtracks him constantly. 

To top off the behavioral issues, he has multiple medical issues and has to be on a special diet. His medical issues are under control and he is doing excellent, but if someone where to adopt him, the cost of meds and food would be about $400 a month. For most people, this is not feasible to take on. 

He was in a foster home for awhile and loved the foster and did great, but sadly we had to take him back because she was skipping his medical appointments when he had an pneumonia. 

I am not sure where to draw the line with him, because he IS happy at the shelter. But it is not the quality of life he deserves. I am conflicted because I know he is an unsafe dog in many situations, yet when he learns to trust someone, he is the most gentle, safe dog. I have discussed my concerns with the other admin, and I can never get a clear response to how they feel about this, so it seems he will forever continue to sit here. It weighs on my heart heavily- on one hand, he has shown us he is more than capable of being a safe, loving, mostly normal dog. On the other hand, he has demonstrated he is a risk to those he is not familiar with, and it is something I am not comfortable with. I do feel his behaviors are manageable with exactly the right adopters, and his world must always remain small for him. If we were to decide to do a behavioral euthanasia, I bet we'd have several staff members walk out (the shelter I work at is "no kill" but we will euth for medical and behavioral issues that are not treatable). 

Obviously, this is a complex issue, so I am inquiring so I can get others experiences and perspectives on this situations. What is humane or inhumane in this situation? Are we harboring an unsafe dog, yet have him up for adoption? How long is too long for an animal to stay at a no-kill shelter when there are compounded behavioral and medical issues?  

#AdoptionsandAdoptionPrograms
#Behavior,TrainingandEnrichment

------------------------------
Lacey
Animal Training and Education Director
------------------------------

Hey Lacey, 

 I'm  sorry for the position you find yourself in, it is in fact a tough moral one. 

I have some questions, how did he do in his foster home (you say great but was it because it was a staff member or??? how did he get used to them?)? Would it be feasible to do a foster to adopt situation? 

The other thing to keep in mind, is if he's a bite risk and potentially unsafe in public - should he be up for adoption? The average adopter does not understand when we tell them very true and simple things like - this dog does NOT LIKE CATS and will hurt them... and the adopter goes yeah yeah yeah i understand... only for the dog to be returned 3 hours later after it killed their cat (has happened in several instances with both cats and other dogs after explaining in depth what the adoptable dog has done and does not need to be around). So he's adopted out, and what happens if that person doesn't take it seriously or has strangers over to their house thinking the dog is fine with them now (have unfortunately seen this happen too and it ended up in a mauling).

 

Taking a life is NEVER and should never be an easy decision (coming from someone who works at an open intake municipal shelter where we euthanize for space).

And for those willing to walk out if you do euthanize him, they should be willing to step up for the dog if they feel that strongly about it ... I know I have even when it wasn't convenient or practical for myself to do so.

Sorry if this didn't help at all just know I think either decision in this case is the right one. I don't think you'd be wrong to let him go but unless you all are going to do something else for him like make him the resident facility dog and keep him in offices/with people he trusts during the day and take him out on walks, etc; yes it's not ideal but it could potentially be doable.... BUT you still run into the risk of someone setting him off one day or any new staff members joining or volunteers showing up. There's so many layers and I wish I could be of more help <3 

Good luck in whatever decision you make!

------------------------------
Angellee Vincent
Volunteer & Events Coordinator
Grand Prairie Animal Services
Grand Prairie, TX
www.gptx.org/paws
------------------------------

Thank you for your thoughtful response. He just clicked with the foster and did well in the home- there was nothing outstanding that happened- it just happened. Unfortunately, we would not do a foster-to-adopt due to the potential liability of him being a bite risk...it would make him more "appealing" to potential adopters or fosters, but we are not willing to take the hit with a foster situation.

While he basically is the resident dog, he cannot be trusted to hangout in a office or even behind the front desk. Strangers are a real issue. Yet, with those he trusts, its perfect situation. 

He does get days out and about for hikes and rides and fast food, but nearly as much as he really should, just due to limited resources on the daily. It is really a morale dilemma, because he is happy and well cared for and we love him.  

------------------------------
L
Behavior Director
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 06-04-2025 07:36 AM
From: Angellee Vincent
Subject: Problematic long-term dog

Hey Lacey, 

 I'm  sorry for the position you find yourself in, it is in fact a tough moral one. 

I have some questions, how did he do in his foster home (you say great but was it because it was a staff member or??? how did he get used to them?)? Would it be feasible to do a foster to adopt situation? 

The other thing to keep in mind, is if he's a bite risk and potentially unsafe in public - should he be up for adoption? The average adopter does not understand when we tell them very true and simple things like - this dog does NOT LIKE CATS and will hurt them... and the adopter goes yeah yeah yeah i understand... only for the dog to be returned 3 hours later after it killed their cat (has happened in several instances with both cats and other dogs after explaining in depth what the adoptable dog has done and does not need to be around). So he's adopted out, and what happens if that person doesn't take it seriously or has strangers over to their house thinking the dog is fine with them now (have unfortunately seen this happen too and it ended up in a mauling).

 

Taking a life is NEVER and should never be an easy decision (coming from someone who works at an open intake municipal shelter where we euthanize for space).

And for those willing to walk out if you do euthanize him, they should be willing to step up for the dog if they feel that strongly about it ... I know I have even when it wasn't convenient or practical for myself to do so.

Sorry if this didn't help at all just know I think either decision in this case is the right one. I don't think you'd be wrong to let him go but unless you all are going to do something else for him like make him the resident facility dog and keep him in offices/with people he trusts during the day and take him out on walks, etc; yes it's not ideal but it could potentially be doable.... BUT you still run into the risk of someone setting him off one day or any new staff members joining or volunteers showing up. There's so many layers and I wish I could be of more help <3 

Good luck in whatever decision you make!

------------------------------
Angellee Vincent
Volunteer & Events Coordinator
Grand Prairie Animal Services
Grand Prairie, TX
www.gptx.org/paws
------------------------------

This is really tough, especially in a shelter environment where there are more 'triggers'.

I've taken in/adopted 2 dogs that were similar. One was a rescue that I've been affiliated with for over 20 yrs & the dog was in a foster having come from a high kill shelter.  His behavior was nearly identical to the dog you speak of & as such was going to be a BE. The foster knew I had taken in other fearful dogs & begged me to take him, which I did. He was a 6 yr. old Rottie Mix.  He is now 14, pretty much blind & deaf. In the intervening yrs., he still had the stranger/danger & I didn't trust him not to bite so I either kept away from strangers or had a muzzle on him which usually kept folks away from him. He only tried to bite once but again, I kept him away from strangers & since I have a fenced yard - I could do this. Until he aged, I don't doubt he may have bitten a stranger. He learned to trust the few frequent visitors I had. Whether or not he could be 'trained' away from this behavior, I don't know as I didn't pursue it . To this day, he is wary of strangers but usually doesn't see or hear them. Always makes you wonder about their past.

The 2nd dog was named "jaws" as  it bit ACC & the folks @ the vet office where she was quarantined.  She was going to be a BE but a tech who was the only one who could handle her asked me to take her. She bit me initially as well but not my partner & in fact bonded w/my partner right away. It was months before I trusted her enough not to bite me. And in the few yrs we had her, she never overcame her fear of strangers & would bite if we didn't hold on to her or put her away.  Most people could not live this way & I wouldn't expect them to [I've worked as an AC officer as well].

I only bring this up as examples where bite risk fearful dogs did not change  much over time. Having worked with a couple of dozen fearful dogs, most were not like these 2 or the one your shelter has & I've been able to rehab them with time & patience. While fearful, these were not bite risks as in this discussion, just extremely shy , timid & scared.

------------------------------
Laurie Methven
Colunteer
Twin Counties Humane Society
VA
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 06-04-2025 11:22 AM
From: L G
Subject: Problematic long-term dog

Thank you for your thoughtful response. He just clicked with the foster and did well in the home- there was nothing outstanding that happened- it just happened. Unfortunately, we would not do a foster-to-adopt due to the potential liability of him being a bite risk...it would make him more "appealing" to potential adopters or fosters, but we are not willing to take the hit with a foster situation.

While he basically is the resident dog, he cannot be trusted to hangout in a office or even behind the front desk. Strangers are a real issue. Yet, with those he trusts, its perfect situation. 

He does get days out and about for hikes and rides and fast food, but nearly as much as he really should, just due to limited resources on the daily. It is really a morale dilemma, because he is happy and well cared for and we love him.  

------------------------------
L
Behavior Director
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 06-04-2025 07:36 AM
From: Angellee Vincent
Subject: Problematic long-term dog

Hey Lacey, 

 I'm  sorry for the position you find yourself in, it is in fact a tough moral one. 

I have some questions, how did he do in his foster home (you say great but was it because it was a staff member or??? how did he get used to them?)? Would it be feasible to do a foster to adopt situation? 

The other thing to keep in mind, is if he's a bite risk and potentially unsafe in public - should he be up for adoption? The average adopter does not understand when we tell them very true and simple things like - this dog does NOT LIKE CATS and will hurt them... and the adopter goes yeah yeah yeah i understand... only for the dog to be returned 3 hours later after it killed their cat (has happened in several instances with both cats and other dogs after explaining in depth what the adoptable dog has done and does not need to be around). So he's adopted out, and what happens if that person doesn't take it seriously or has strangers over to their house thinking the dog is fine with them now (have unfortunately seen this happen too and it ended up in a mauling).

 

Taking a life is NEVER and should never be an easy decision (coming from someone who works at an open intake municipal shelter where we euthanize for space).

And for those willing to walk out if you do euthanize him, they should be willing to step up for the dog if they feel that strongly about it ... I know I have even when it wasn't convenient or practical for myself to do so.

Sorry if this didn't help at all just know I think either decision in this case is the right one. I don't think you'd be wrong to let him go but unless you all are going to do something else for him like make him the resident facility dog and keep him in offices/with people he trusts during the day and take him out on walks, etc; yes it's not ideal but it could potentially be doable.... BUT you still run into the risk of someone setting him off one day or any new staff members joining or volunteers showing up. There's so many layers and I wish I could be of more help <3 

Good luck in whatever decision you make!

------------------------------
Angellee Vincent
Volunteer & Events Coordinator
Grand Prairie Animal Services
Grand Prairie, TX
www.gptx.org/paws

Hi, 

Thank you for those examples. We need more people like you who have the ability, time and understanding to dedicate to these kinds of animals. They really can live a full life with their family, but the concern then lies in the risk- and that is so much to ask someone to take on. I also only adopt animals that are behaviorally challenged because I have the means to care for and protect them.- but we are a dime a dozen. I am not even totally sure it is the right thing to do to put a possible burden on others. Thank you so much for sharing your experiences and insight. I really appreciate it. Keep doing what you are doing- you are being the change you want to see in the world...

------------------------------
L
Behavior Director
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 06-05-2025 12:47 PM
From: Laurie Methven
Subject: Problematic long-term dog

This is really tough, especially in a shelter environment where there are more 'triggers'.

I've taken in/adopted 2 dogs that were similar. One was a rescue that I've been affiliated with for over 20 yrs & the dog was in a foster having come from a high kill shelter.  His behavior was nearly identical to the dog you speak of & as such was going to be a BE. The foster knew I had taken in other fearful dogs & begged me to take him, which I did. He was a 6 yr. old Rottie Mix.  He is now 14, pretty much blind & deaf. In the intervening yrs., he still had the stranger/danger & I didn't trust him not to bite so I either kept away from strangers or had a muzzle on him which usually kept folks away from him. He only tried to bite once but again, I kept him away from strangers & since I have a fenced yard - I could do this. Until he aged, I don't doubt he may have bitten a stranger. He learned to trust the few frequent visitors I had. Whether or not he could be 'trained' away from this behavior, I don't know as I didn't pursue it . To this day, he is wary of strangers but usually doesn't see or hear them. Always makes you wonder about their past.

The 2nd dog was named "jaws" as  it bit ACC & the folks @ the vet office where she was quarantined.  She was going to be a BE but a tech who was the only one who could handle her asked me to take her. She bit me initially as well but not my partner & in fact bonded w/my partner right away. It was months before I trusted her enough not to bite me. And in the few yrs we had her, she never overcame her fear of strangers & would bite if we didn't hold on to her or put her away.  Most people could not live this way & I wouldn't expect them to [I've worked as an AC officer as well].

I only bring this up as examples where bite risk fearful dogs did not change  much over time. Having worked with a couple of dozen fearful dogs, most were not like these 2 or the one your shelter has & I've been able to rehab them with time & patience. While fearful, these were not bite risks as in this discussion, just extremely shy , timid & scared.

------------------------------
Laurie Methven
Colunteer
Twin Counties Humane Society
VA
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 06-04-2025 11:22 AM
From: L G
Subject: Problematic long-term dog

Thank you for your thoughtful response. He just clicked with the foster and did well in the home- there was nothing outstanding that happened- it just happened. Unfortunately, we would not do a foster-to-adopt due to the potential liability of him being a bite risk...it would make him more "appealing" to potential adopters or fosters, but we are not willing to take the hit with a foster situation.

While he basically is the resident dog, he cannot be trusted to hangout in a office or even behind the front desk. Strangers are a real issue. Yet, with those he trusts, its perfect situation. 

He does get days out and about for hikes and rides and fast food, but nearly as much as he really should, just due to limited resources on the daily. It is really a morale dilemma, because he is happy and well cared for and we love him.  

------------------------------
L
Behavior Director


Original Message:
Sent: 06-04-2025 07:36 AM
From: Angellee Vincent
Subject: Problematic long-term dog

Hey Lacey, 

 I'm  sorry for the position you find yourself in, it is in fact a tough moral one. 

I have some questions, how did he do in his foster home (you say great but was it because it was a staff member or??? how did he get used to them?)? Would it be feasible to do a foster to adopt situation? 

The other thing to keep in mind, is if he's a bite risk and potentially unsafe in public - should he be up for adoption? The average adopter does not understand when we tell them very true and simple things like - this dog does NOT LIKE CATS and will hurt them... and the adopter goes yeah yeah yeah i understand... only for the dog to be returned 3 hours later after it killed their cat (has happened in several instances with both cats and other dogs after explaining in depth what the adoptable dog has done and does not need to be around). So he's adopted out, and what happens if that person doesn't take it seriously or has strangers over to their house thinking the dog is fine with them now (have unfortunately seen this happen too and it ended up in a mauling).

 

Taking a life is NEVER and should never be an easy decision (coming from someone who works at an open intake municipal shelter where we euthanize for space).

And for those willing to walk out if you do euthanize him, they should be willing to step up for the dog if they feel that strongly about it ... I know I have even when it wasn't convenient or practical for myself to do so.

Sorry if this didn't help at all just know I think either decision in this case is the right one. I don't think you'd be wrong to let him go but unless you all are going to do something else for him like make him the resident facility dog and keep him in offices/with people he trusts during the day and take him out on walks, etc; yes it's not ideal but it could potentially be doable.... BUT you still run into the risk of someone setting him off one day or any new staff members joining or volunteers showing up. There's so many layers and I wish I could be of more help <3 

Good luck in whatever decision you make!

------------------------------
Angellee Vincent
Volunteer & Events Coordinator
Grand Prairie Animal Services
Grand Prairie, TX
www.gptx.org/paws

I'm wondering what, if any, changes you have seen in the dog since he first arrived? Has he actually thrived in the shelter environment, or has some of his fearful behavior emerged since arriving? This would be a big question for me when reflecting on what is best for the dog. I love the idea mentioned above about allowing him to be a shelter dog and stay with the people he knows/trusts in the office, but would definitely ensure he is not in contact with new staff/volunteers without an experienced handler present. 

This also makes me wonder, what have you done to introduce new staff/volunteers since he's been there? Is it perhaps an approach you could take with a potential adopter?

Good luck! This sounds like a very difficult situation. 

------------------------------
Melissa Fitzgerald
Volunteer
Pawfect Life Rescue
MA
------------------------------

So he was actually very social when he first arrived, and did deteriorate over time with strangers. Maybe kennel stress, maybe his true nature, maybe a developed behavior? Who knows. 

We actually have tried introducing potential adopters the way we do with new staff (very good idea to mention!), but even with staff, it takes a little time over several days. He sees the new staff constantly and sees them doing all the things he is used to in the kennel (feeding, in/out of the kennel and so on), so it becomes quickly normalized to him. But, all the people that are interested and are good candidates for him either cannot come constantly or fade away because it comes off as too much and aren't really that dedicated. 

So, there is more of our struggle. I feel like we are running out of ideas to get him placed into a home. Thank you so much for your response and insight. I really appreciate it 

------------------------------
L
Behavior Director
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 06-04-2025 08:00 AM
From: Melissa Fitzgerald
Subject: Problematic long-term dog

I'm wondering what, if any, changes you have seen in the dog since he first arrived? Has he actually thrived in the shelter environment, or has some of his fearful behavior emerged since arriving? This would be a big question for me when reflecting on what is best for the dog. I love the idea mentioned above about allowing him to be a shelter dog and stay with the people he knows/trusts in the office, but would definitely ensure he is not in contact with new staff/volunteers without an experienced handler present. 

This also makes me wonder, what have you done to introduce new staff/volunteers since he's been there? Is it perhaps an approach you could take with a potential adopter?

Good luck! This sounds like a very difficult situation. 

------------------------------
Melissa Fitzgerald
Volunteer
Pawfect Life Rescue
MA
------------------------------

Please keep us posted, this is such a hard one. Hearing how much you care I know you'll do the right thing, but I'm sure it feels like there isn't a good choice right now. Sending hugs and wishing you luck.  

------------------------------
Melissa Fitzgerald
Volunteer
Pawfect Life Rescue
MA
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 06-04-2025 11:29 AM
From: L G
Subject: Problematic long-term dog

So he was actually very social when he first arrived, and did deteriorate over time with strangers. Maybe kennel stress, maybe his true nature, maybe a developed behavior? Who knows. 

We actually have tried introducing potential adopters the way we do with new staff (very good idea to mention!), but even with staff, it takes a little time over several days. He sees the new staff constantly and sees them doing all the things he is used to in the kennel (feeding, in/out of the kennel and so on), so it becomes quickly normalized to him. But, all the people that are interested and are good candidates for him either cannot come constantly or fade away because it comes off as too much and aren't really that dedicated. 

So, there is more of our struggle. I feel like we are running out of ideas to get him placed into a home. Thank you so much for your response and insight. I really appreciate it 

------------------------------
L
Behavior Director
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 06-04-2025 08:00 AM
From: Melissa Fitzgerald
Subject: Problematic long-term dog

I'm wondering what, if any, changes you have seen in the dog since he first arrived? Has he actually thrived in the shelter environment, or has some of his fearful behavior emerged since arriving? This would be a big question for me when reflecting on what is best for the dog. I love the idea mentioned above about allowing him to be a shelter dog and stay with the people he knows/trusts in the office, but would definitely ensure he is not in contact with new staff/volunteers without an experienced handler present. 

This also makes me wonder, what have you done to introduce new staff/volunteers since he's been there? Is it perhaps an approach you could take with a potential adopter?

Good luck! This sounds like a very difficult situation. 

------------------------------
Melissa Fitzgerald
Volunteer
Pawfect Life Rescue
MA

I know it's not a popular position, but as an ED who is currently dealing with multiple lawsuits for bites, all I see in your description is "bite risk" "bite risk" "bite risk".  My personal feeling is that it is not fair to the dog or the staff to draw out the inevitable.  It feels to me like either the dog is going to bite someone and then need to be euthanized, or it's going to deteriorate still more over time spent confined to the shelter.  Either way, your staff are going to suffer, too.

We currently have a dog who everyone pussy-foots around because of all of her "quirks".  I am gradually convincing the staff that her quality of life is suffering, and it's not going to get better.  I won't force them before they're ready, but ultimately I feel the dog will be euthanized.  And we'll all be sad, but we did not fail her.  The world did.

------------------------------
Johanna Humbert
Michiana Humane Society
Michigan City IN
------------------------------

Hi, 

You are absolutely correct- we just got through a bite law suit and it was rough. I also see the big flashing letters of BITE RISK! and it terrifies me.  I am not sure I could confidently send him home with adopters, knowing in the back of my mind how risky it could be if they slip up once with the dog (the shelter I work for is totally transparent about all behavioral and medical issues). And then if something happened, I do not want that on my conscience or anyone else's.

I think it is so kind you are easing the staff into what may become the inevitable. I do not want anyone to suffer. Sometimes it does feel like the issue is skirted around because no one wants to be the one to make that decision on a beloved animal who we have all fought so hard to protect. I appreciate your perspective as an ED- it is valuable. 

------------------------------
L
Behavior Director
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 06-05-2025 07:00 AM
From: Johanna Humbert
Subject: Problematic long-term dog

I know it's not a popular position, but as an ED who is currently dealing with multiple lawsuits for bites, all I see in your description is "bite risk" "bite risk" "bite risk".  My personal feeling is that it is not fair to the dog or the staff to draw out the inevitable.  It feels to me like either the dog is going to bite someone and then need to be euthanized, or it's going to deteriorate still more over time spent confined to the shelter.  Either way, your staff are going to suffer, too.

We currently have a dog who everyone pussy-foots around because of all of her "quirks".  I am gradually convincing the staff that her quality of life is suffering, and it's not going to get better.  I won't force them before they're ready, but ultimately I feel the dog will be euthanized.  And we'll all be sad, but we did not fail her.  The world did.

------------------------------
Johanna Humbert
Michiana Humane Society
Michigan City IN
------------------------------

We had a dog in a very similar situation. He had been here a long time, had stranger danger but got used to the staff and did well in some homes but not others, and he was a bite risk. It was also a similar situation with staff where they were passionate but the effort it took to keep up with training was a lot and not everyone was dedicated and if he were euthanized some would be very mad, although I don't think they would've walked out. It was discussed multiple times whether or not to go with BE for many of the same reasons and one day the inevitable happened and he bit again. The situation could've been prevented but even before that moment, he was a liability and really needed the PERFECT home that was nearly impossible to find. In the end he was put to sleep because of the bite and his history. 

2 1/2 years is a long time to be in the shelter. He has so many restrictions and it seems as though, while with your team he is doing fine, his stranger danger is just continuing to get worse. In my opinion, at this point the quality of life is very low, and the amount of work it takes to keep up with his needs is very high so you really have to consider your capacity for care and how it may be impacting the other animals in the shelter for so much time to be taken up by this dog. From my experience I think it is this dog's time to go. If that is the decision your shelter decides to make, it's important that it is thoroughly explained why the decision was made to the behavior and care staff and that you guys are very transparent about the situation, and offer them some time with him before he crosses the bridge. At our shelter we do paw prints and sometimes prints of their nose for staff who have had a strong connection to an animal that gets put to sleep.

------------------------------
Laurel Wilton
Cat Welfare Supervisor
Nebraska Humane Society
NE
------------------------------

I 100% agree on the quality of life aspect here. Yes, this dog seems to be doing well with staff in the shelter, but he is struggling in so many other aspects. From OP's post, it appears that there are many triggers for this dog. Whenever he gets set off, that's a ton of FAS that dog is now dealing with, and these triggers are EVERYWHERE in a shelter, especially if the animal is made available for viewing by adopters. I also believe that the most humane decision here would be humane euthanasia. I know it's not easy, and it never should be but it really sounds like this dog's quality of life is suffering, even if he has good moments with the staff. Be transparent, explain why the decision was made and how it's the best decision for everyone, the dog included. My shelter let go a dog similar to this and staff held a little party for him with a cake and all, allowing those who cared for him to say goodbye. 

I hope this was helpful and didn't come across as insensitive. Sometimes when we are trying our best to find the "best" outcome, we overlook what is truly most humane for the animal. I wish you luck.

------------------------------
Brianna Mendonca
Cat Enrichment Coordinator
Hawaiian Humane Society
Honolulu HI
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 06-05-2025 10:58 AM
From: Laurel Wilton (She/Her)
Subject: Problematic long-term dog

We had a dog in a very similar situation. He had been here a long time, had stranger danger but got used to the staff and did well in some homes but not others, and he was a bite risk. It was also a similar situation with staff where they were passionate but the effort it took to keep up with training was a lot and not everyone was dedicated and if he were euthanized some would be very mad, although I don't think they would've walked out. It was discussed multiple times whether or not to go with BE for many of the same reasons and one day the inevitable happened and he bit again. The situation could've been prevented but even before that moment, he was a liability and really needed the PERFECT home that was nearly impossible to find. In the end he was put to sleep because of the bite and his history. 

2 1/2 years is a long time to be in the shelter. He has so many restrictions and it seems as though, while with your team he is doing fine, his stranger danger is just continuing to get worse. In my opinion, at this point the quality of life is very low, and the amount of work it takes to keep up with his needs is very high so you really have to consider your capacity for care and how it may be impacting the other animals in the shelter for so much time to be taken up by this dog. From my experience I think it is this dog's time to go. If that is the decision your shelter decides to make, it's important that it is thoroughly explained why the decision was made to the behavior and care staff and that you guys are very transparent about the situation, and offer them some time with him before he crosses the bridge. At our shelter we do paw prints and sometimes prints of their nose for staff who have had a strong connection to an animal that gets put to sleep.

------------------------------
Laurel Wilton
Cat Welfare Supervisor
Nebraska Humane Society
NE
------------------------------

Thank you for your reply. I absolutely do not think your reply is insensitive- I think it is honest. I also feel this way often in regards to this dog. But then the doubt sets in. I know this is the nature of the job, and the worst part. The place I find myself stuck in is I am not sure his quality of life is poor, so to speak. He is very happy. So, I continue to feel stuck. But all these great responses have provided clarity, and I feel very validated that my concern and love for this dog and often thinking maybe BE is the best option. I will continue to look for the most loving solution. 

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L
Behavior Director
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Original Message:
Sent: 06-08-2025 04:18 PM
From: Brianna Mendonca
Subject: Problematic long-term dog

I 100% agree on the quality of life aspect here. Yes, this dog seems to be doing well with staff in the shelter, but he is struggling in so many other aspects. From OP's post, it appears that there are many triggers for this dog. Whenever he gets set off, that's a ton of FAS that dog is now dealing with, and these triggers are EVERYWHERE in a shelter, especially if the animal is made available for viewing by adopters. I also believe that the most humane decision here would be humane euthanasia. I know it's not easy, and it never should be but it really sounds like this dog's quality of life is suffering, even if he has good moments with the staff. Be transparent, explain why the decision was made and how it's the best decision for everyone, the dog included. My shelter let go a dog similar to this and staff held a little party for him with a cake and all, allowing those who cared for him to say goodbye. 

I hope this was helpful and didn't come across as insensitive. Sometimes when we are trying our best to find the "best" outcome, we overlook what is truly most humane for the animal. I wish you luck.

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Brianna Mendonca
Cat Enrichment Coordinator
Hawaiian Humane Society
Honolulu HI
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Original Message:
Sent: 06-05-2025 10:58 AM
From: Laurel Wilton (She/Her)
Subject: Problematic long-term dog

We had a dog in a very similar situation. He had been here a long time, had stranger danger but got used to the staff and did well in some homes but not others, and he was a bite risk. It was also a similar situation with staff where they were passionate but the effort it took to keep up with training was a lot and not everyone was dedicated and if he were euthanized some would be very mad, although I don't think they would've walked out. It was discussed multiple times whether or not to go with BE for many of the same reasons and one day the inevitable happened and he bit again. The situation could've been prevented but even before that moment, he was a liability and really needed the PERFECT home that was nearly impossible to find. In the end he was put to sleep because of the bite and his history. 

2 1/2 years is a long time to be in the shelter. He has so many restrictions and it seems as though, while with your team he is doing fine, his stranger danger is just continuing to get worse. In my opinion, at this point the quality of life is very low, and the amount of work it takes to keep up with his needs is very high so you really have to consider your capacity for care and how it may be impacting the other animals in the shelter for so much time to be taken up by this dog. From my experience I think it is this dog's time to go. If that is the decision your shelter decides to make, it's important that it is thoroughly explained why the decision was made to the behavior and care staff and that you guys are very transparent about the situation, and offer them some time with him before he crosses the bridge. At our shelter we do paw prints and sometimes prints of their nose for staff who have had a strong connection to an animal that gets put to sleep.

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Laurel Wilton
Cat Welfare Supervisor
Nebraska Humane Society
NE

This message was posted by a user wishing to remain anonymous

I would like to reply from my own personal experience with my son's dog. Many years ago, my son's dad ( we were divorced, but remained friends) purchased a purebred Rottweiler puppy from a reputable breeder for my young teenage son. He grew up initially with my son and his dad, but  my son moved back in with me with his dog when his dad became terminally ill. The puppy had been well-socialized, was very obedient, and my son could do absolutely anything to and with that dog. They were inseparable. I, however, knew my limitations. Luke was fine with me as long as I didn't make him do anything he didn't want to do, or stop him from doing what he did want to do. It was manageable. He had an extremely high prey drive, and a Jekyll/Hyde personality. He could be an angel one moment, and extremely unpredictable the next. He could not be trusted at all around strangers (literally ripped the pants off one of my son's friends), had one bite, and he had broken windows when aroused at kids riding bikes, running outdoors, etc. past the house.  I shudder to think what would have happened had he gotten loose. Long story short, my son and I made the very difficult decision to behaviorally euthanize the dog at 3 years of age. It was one of the hardest most heartbreaking things I have ever done in my live, but I do not regret the decision. The dog could be an angel, but he could also be extremely dangerous. I could no longer take the chance of "what if". I would have never forgiven myself if anyone had been seriously injured and I knew I could've prevented it.  Even under the strictest of management and attempts at control, accidents happen. Make the responsible decision from your head, not your heart. Best of luck to all whatever you decide.

" Unfortunately, we would not do a foster-to-adopt due to the potential liability of him being a bite risk." 

I feel like you have your answer right there. This dog is not safe to place in your community.. Adopting him out would just place the burden of behavioral euthanasia and bite liability on the adopter, and if bet that would sour them and everyone they know towards adoption.  If he can't even be trusted in an office with professionals you can't expect the public to be able to keep him  away from the world for the rest of his life.

As heart wrenching as it is, it sounds like this dog needs a great day before going to sleep forever while surrounded by those he trusts and loves. There are far worse ways to leave this world. 

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Sam Maurice
Humane Society of Jefferson County
Jefferson WI
https://hsjc-wis.com
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This message was posted by a user wishing to remain anonymous

I agree, and I have made that same sort of statement before with tough dogs. I am the foster coordinator at our rescue, and if I am concerned enough about a dog that I hesitate to put it in a foster home for safety reasons, it is a red flag for me. 

OP, you may find this article helpful: https://journal.iaabcfoundation.org/the-perils-of-placing-marginal-dogs/

I sympathize, these things are never easy. Much love to you and your team.

Original Message:
Sent: 06-05-2025 11:19 PM
From: Samantha Maurice
Subject: Problematic long-term dog

" Unfortunately, we would not do a foster-to-adopt due to the potential liability of him being a bite risk." 

I feel like you have your answer right there. This dog is not safe to place in your community.. Adopting him out would just place the burden of behavioral euthanasia and bite liability on the adopter, and if bet that would sour them and everyone they know towards adoption.  If he can't even be trusted in an office with professionals you can't expect the public to be able to keep him  away from the world for the rest of his life.

As heart wrenching as it is, it sounds like this dog needs a great day before going to sleep forever while surrounded by those he trusts and loves. There are far worse ways to leave this world. 

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Sam Maurice
Humane Society of Jefferson County
Jefferson WI
https://hsjc-wis.com
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You have gotten some really good advice and support that I agree with so I won't repeat it all. 

The only advice I would add is that euthanasia decisions should not be unilateral or only 1 person's responsibility in the shelter and should include administrative leadership support. Your organization should have a panel of experienced/credentialed people in leadership roles meeting regularly to discuss pathway planning, animal welfare, and euthanasia decisions. We call our programs the "Canine/Feline Welfare Panel". They include our medical director, surgery director (me), department manager, behavior coordinator and Director of Operations and we meet weekly. We take staff, volunteer, ACO, and other opinions/experiences into consideration but our decisions are final. Other stakeholders may not always agree but they respect and trust us and we are always transparent. 

I would also encourage your organization to develop objective guidelines for pathway planning and euthanasia decisions. All animals should be considered as individuals and in context, but guidelines are important to avoid decision fatigue and to keep these decisions consistent with the mission and capacity of the organization.

Good luck! This work is hard and emotional and those outside of the shelter world, even the people who love us, generally do not and cannot understand what we do every day. Lean on your "village" when you need support to do the hard things and make the difficult decisions. 

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Rachel Powell DVM
Director of Surgery
Greenhill Humane Society
Eugene, OR
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Hi! 

Thank you for your great response. We actually do have all the checks and balances in place. I think the block is what is humane and where do you draw the line with an animal that is sketchy, but also not sketchy? It is one of those ethical dilemma's I think all of us in this field absolutely understand. I received a private response from a very insightful gentleman who suggested we ask ourselves a few questions and really sit on those questions for awhile- I had said in my original post that while he is happy at the shelter, it is not the life he deserves. The thing to think about is for my own personal standards, it may not be the life he deserves, but here, he is safe, healthy, cared for and comfortable. So maybe it is the life he deserves because he has all of that and more, right? I just do not know. 

He is not in jeopardy of BE right now. But this is something that weighs on me daily (as it is also part of my job to eval these things), and I often have conflicting feelings about this issue.  So, if the time comes, I want to be prepared in the best way possible. Hearing others perspectives opens the door for clarity. Thank you Dr. for you direction

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L
Behavior Director
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 06-06-2025 11:47 AM
From: Rachel Powell
Subject: Problematic long-term dog

You have gotten some really good advice and support that I agree with so I won't repeat it all. 

The only advice I would add is that euthanasia decisions should not be unilateral or only 1 person's responsibility in the shelter and should include administrative leadership support. Your organization should have a panel of experienced/credentialed people in leadership roles meeting regularly to discuss pathway planning, animal welfare, and euthanasia decisions. We call our programs the "Canine/Feline Welfare Panel". They include our medical director, surgery director (me), department manager, behavior coordinator and Director of Operations and we meet weekly. We take staff, volunteer, ACO, and other opinions/experiences into consideration but our decisions are final. Other stakeholders may not always agree but they respect and trust us and we are always transparent. 

I would also encourage your organization to develop objective guidelines for pathway planning and euthanasia decisions. All animals should be considered as individuals and in context, but guidelines are important to avoid decision fatigue and to keep these decisions consistent with the mission and capacity of the organization.

Good luck! This work is hard and emotional and those outside of the shelter world, even the people who love us, generally do not and cannot understand what we do every day. Lean on your "village" when you need support to do the hard things and make the difficult decisions. 

------------------------------
Rachel Powell DVM
Director of Surgery
Greenhill Humane Society
Eugene, OR
------------------------------

I am going to provide a different perspective.  One important thing to remember is that a government shelter is entirely different than a not-for-profit. Government shelters are tasked with picking up strays, responding to cruelty calls, picking up hit by vehicle, police officer assist, dog fighting, and more.  They can't turn any animal away. It's the law.  Government shelters must euthanize. And no matter how hard that they try to get all dogs homes, some dogs are a liability and at this point in time there are way too many dogs, cats, and other animals. The No Kill movement has been misunderstood by many people and shelters.  It actually means less than 10% of population in the shelter is euthanized. For NFP shelters they can stop taking animals. Not so for government shelters.  No Kill began in the early 1990's. There were fewer animals, but today there are literally hundreds of thousands of dogs surrendered or just dumped.  Holding a dog for months and months, even years, is inhumane.  There is no other way to put it. Dogs are sociable animals. So ask yourself, are dogs being held because it's the best thing for the dog, or because the shelter/rescue is concerned about popular opinion.  Many times euthanasia is the best option for the dog.  Were I to pass tomorrow, I sure wouldn't want my dogs setting in a shelter for months and months.

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Linda Moore
Pet's Second Chance for Life Inc, DBA PSC Welsh Corgi Rescue
------------------------------

You are 100% right. No-kill should be low-kill. We are a HS that is NFP, so we are able to hold space for this dog, I guess forever. I appreciate the analogy of what would I want for my animals? I know for a fact, there is a strong chance the dogs I take in are not necessarily consider easily adoptable- all behavioral dogs, all either have more extreme people or dog reactivity. They would crash and burn in a shelter very quickly if placed back into the system. And that is not what I'd want for them. I appreciate your insight and thoughtful response. 

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L
Behavior Director
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 06-06-2025 10:20 AM
From: Linda Moore
Subject: Problematic long-term dog

I am going to provide a different perspective.  One important thing to remember is that a government shelter is entirely different than a not-for-profit. Government shelters are tasked with picking up strays, responding to cruelty calls, picking up hit by vehicle, police officer assist, dog fighting, and more.  They can't turn any animal away. It's the law.  Government shelters must euthanize. And no matter how hard that they try to get all dogs homes, some dogs are a liability and at this point in time there are way too many dogs, cats, and other animals. The No Kill movement has been misunderstood by many people and shelters.  It actually means less than 10% of population in the shelter is euthanized. For NFP shelters they can stop taking animals. Not so for government shelters.  No Kill began in the early 1990's. There were fewer animals, but today there are literally hundreds of thousands of dogs surrendered or just dumped.  Holding a dog for months and months, even years, is inhumane.  There is no other way to put it. Dogs are sociable animals. So ask yourself, are dogs being held because it's the best thing for the dog, or because the shelter/rescue is concerned about popular opinion.  Many times euthanasia is the best option for the dog.  Were I to pass tomorrow, I sure wouldn't want my dogs setting in a shelter for months and months.

------------------------------
Linda Moore
Pet's Second Chance for Life Inc, DBA PSC Welsh Corgi Rescue
------------------------------

You don't mention what the census is like at your shelter.  One question I often ask staff is "how many easily adoptable dogs have we turned away because we have an exceptionally tricky one going on one year+ of residency?"

Maybe space is not at a premium for you?

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Johanna Humbert
Michiana Humane Society
Michigan City IN
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