Policies regarding Euthanasia

 It is very important to us that all animal shelters be honest with the public regarding what happens to felines after arrival at a shelter. And, without doubt, euthanasia is always a topic of concern. Friends of Pets strives to ensure once a feline is in our no-kill program, it will be "safe," and will not face being destroyed. As a result, due to well-intentioned reasons, some cats enter our program which are difficult, or impossible, to adopt. Because cats can live for many years, we are at a maximum capacity for the number of difficult-to or impossible-to adopt that we can care for and ensure longevity. We cannot accept any more at this time.

It will always be our goal to euthanize solely to end suffering, or to end the lives of those cats with no hope for a quality of life, including infections from Feline Leukemia (FeLV) and Immunodefeciency (FIV) viruses. At this time, since the number of cats in our program is at maximum capacity, we are now forced to consider euthanasia for other reasons, which are outlined below: 

 1. Feral or semi-tame cats, which includes felines unable to accept caging, handling, or medication;

2. Cats which run or hide once set free inside a home or building;

3. Cats which cannot form affectionate bonds with humans;

4. Cats which are aggressive towards people or other cats, mark, or defecate outside the litter box;

5. Cats which show long-term signs of depression, including refusal to eat or socialize, or have "given up" after the loss of their home;

6. Cats with debilitating illnesses or very old in age. Most of these have stopped eating or have chronic conditions with no hope for recovery.

Please know, it is our view, the best alternatives for the felines described above should be to remain in the environment in which they have been successful, and not taken to shelters. We believe the best answers come from people who are committed to keeping their pets for their lifetimes and to reach out and help cats in need. All facilities, including ours, are very limited to the extent at which they can truly be of help to the cat.