Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Following recent reports in the media about the administration of the animal shelters in Big Pine Key and Marathon, the Florida Keys Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (FKSPCA), the present contractor for animal control in Monroe County from Key West to Mile Marker 16.7, would like to clarify its position.

We have been requested by Monroe County to oversee daily operations at the Big Pine Key and Marathon shelters on an interim basis, which we are willing to do until the county decides on a permanent solution.

The FKSPCA would like to assure supporters of both shelters and local residents that the welfare of the animals now housed there is our primary concern. We will take all steps necessary to ensure their safety and well-being.

In that context it is appropriate to discuss so-called "no-kill" animal shelters and to restate our own euthanasia policy, which often has been misunderstood by people outside our jurisdiction, mistakenly referring to the FKSPCA as a "kill shelter." Because the FKSPCA turns no animal away, sometimes animals arrive at our shelter in poor condition -- either physically or mentally. The FKSPCA, through the generosity of donors and veterinarians, provides extensive medical care for such animals. Euthanasia is considered only after pursuit of all viable options and when there is consensus that it is the most humane option for the animal in question, or the only reasonable option to ensure staff or community safety.

Let us be clear: The FKSPCA places no time limit on animals for adoption. For example, one of our cats was recently adopted after five years at the shelter. Ms. Bee, another cat, has been with us for two years. Ari, an older dog, had his first anniversary at the shelter last month, just to mention a few of the animals in our care that are awaiting forever homes.

However, if an animal is ailing and unlikely to recover, or has a history of aggression and deemed unadoptable, the only humane decision is euthanasia, a decision that is never made lightly and always in consultation with those staff members directly involved in the animal's care, and our shelter director.

As an "open admission" shelter, we accept all animals that are brought to us. Traditionally, "no-kill" shelters only accept animals they deem to be adoptable. Others warehouse animals for years knowing they have little or no hope of being adopted. Long-term kennel life can cause mental deterioration and therefore can be an inhumane option for some animals. It is important to consider an animal's mental, as well as its physical health.

We also are aware that feral cats can present a serious problem in environmentally sensitive areas. The FKSPCA works with many individuals in the community who monitor or maintain feral cat colonies, and always encourages individuals to live in harmony with feral cats when possible. To that end, through our spay/neuter clinic, feral cats are sterilized free of charge so that they can be returned to their caregiver without continuing to populate. Unfortunately, there are times when individuals do not want feral cats returned to their property. In such cases, since feral cats are unadoptable, humane euthanasia is the only remaining option.

Like the FKSPCA, the Big Pine and Marathon shelters also rely on monetary donations to supplement funds from their Monroe County contracts in order to give animals the very best care. This also includes the gifts of time that volunteers donate to enhance the lives of animals awaiting forever homes. The FKSPCA urges past and present supporters of both shelters to continue their gifts of time and money. Donations to each shelter will be spent on the care of animals at that shelter.

We encourage anyone, especially supporters of the Big Pine and Marathon shelters, who has any questions or concerns to visit our website, http://www.fkspca.org, or contact us at 305-294-4857. Our executive director, Connie Christian, and shelter director, LuAnn Huff, stand ready to speak to you.

The FKSPCA takes great pride in the professionalism, compassion and integrity of its staff (and the dedication of its volunteers) and the high standard of animal care and services it offers to the community that places its trust in us. We look forward to providing that same service to the Middle Keys communities for the duration of the FKSPCA's stewardship of the Big Pine and Marathon shelters.

Jane Dawkins is president of the Florida Keys Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.