Our Process
No single person makes the decision to euthanize any animal at the Porter County Animal Shelter. In all cases of euthanasia, the final decision is made by consensus of the three-person Shelter management team, the Shelter animal handlers, and the veterinarian or animal behavior specialist, as appropriate.
In euthanasia cases for medical reasons, a veterinarian is consulted and provides expert information regarding diagnosis, prognosis, treatment options and treatment costs. Prior to considering euthanasia of an animal for medical reasons, efforts are made to place the animal with an approved rescue organization that has the capacity to provide the necessary care of the animal.
In euthanasia cases for the reason of aggression, an animal behavior specialist is consulted and provides expert information regarding risks to the public, staff and other animals, and provides an opinion as to whether the aggressive behavior can be successfully managed through training. Prior to considering euthanasia for aggressive behavior, efforts are made to place the animal with an approved rescue organization that has the capacity to provide the necessary behavior modifications.