On Wednesday, fourteen staff members at the Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter in Billings, Montana, were hospitalized after the FBI used an incinerator to burn two pounds of seized methamphetamine at the facility. Smoke filled the building, prompting the evacuation of staff, 75 cats, and dogs. Local authorities stated that the incinerator, typically used for euthanized animals, can also be used to burn seized narcotics. According to the Assistant City Administrator, smoke traveled in the wrong direction due to negative pressure. The Executive Director reported that she was unaware of the drug burn taking place.
Read More
Workers at a Montana animal shelter were hospitalized after a drug burn conducted by the FBI released methamphetamine smoke into the building. The smoke was the result of a negative pressure issue, preventing proper ventilation during the incineration of two pounds of seized methamphetamine. Fourteen shelter staff members evacuated and sought medical treatment for symptoms including headaches and dizziness, while the shelter’s animals were relocated. The facility remains closed pending contamination testing, and officials are investigating the circumstances surrounding the burn, including the incinerator’s temperature.
Read More
Having read about the recent incident involving two animal care workers in Indy who were fired for checking adopters’ criminal history, I must say that my initial reaction was one of disbelief and outrage. The fact that these employees were terminated for simply trying to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals in their care is truly mind-boggling. As someone who deeply values the protection of animals and believes in the importance of due diligence when it comes to vetting potential adopters, I am utterly dismayed by the actions taken by the management at the animal shelter.
In the case of Kylee Fox, who discovered that a dog named Champagne was adopted out to a couple with a history of animal cruelty and abandonment violations, it is clear that her intentions were sincere and driven by a genuine concern for the animals.… Continue reading
As a vet tech myself, the story of a woman who took her dog to a shelter to be euthanized only to find out a year later that the dog was up for adoption again hits close to home. The complexities and emotions involved in decisions regarding euthanasia for pets are never easy, and this particular case raises a lot of questions and concerns.
First and foremost, the fact that the dog owner was not allowed to be present during the euthanasia process at the shelter is alarming. Being present for your beloved pet’s final moments is not only a comfort to the owner but also ensures that the process is carried out with compassion and care.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker