Euthanasia Policy

Bat Cats and Dogs Home takes dogs and cats from a wide variety of backgrounds and often those with the highest welfare need. We believe every dog and cat is an individual and is entitled to care and compassion to give them the very best chance of a positive outcome. However, we accept that we cannot rehabilitate and rehome every dog or cat that is admitted to our care, and we ensure that any euthanasia decisions are approached with knowledge and compassion.

Euthanasia decisions are made for the following reasons:

1. On veterinary advice for reasons of ill health or accident where treatment would not improve the quality of life or where intervention would mean welfare is severely compromised.
2. If a dog or cat has a behavioural problem that poses a significant risk to people or other animals that cannot be resolved or safely and reasonably managed.
3. Dogs that have a known history of aggression or bite history that would deem the dog a danger to the public or prosecution risk to a new owner*.
4. Dogs that are identified under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 which means it would be illegal to rehome them.
5. Where quality of life is severely compromised, and all reasonable efforts have been taken to improve and resolve. This includes dogs or cats that simply cannot cope or adapt to a variety of environments which limits the opportunities to exhibit normal behaviour without experiencing stress.

Notes to support points 1-5

• Length of stay shall not constitute acceptable reasons for euthanasia; however, the ongoing welfare of the dog or cat in a rescue centre is carefully monitored as many dogs or cats do not cope with extended periods in rescue.
• Behaviour assessments prior to euthanasia will be carried out on all animals apart from point 1, 3* and 4 where a euthanasia decision is the only option.
• The euthanasia SOP will be followed in all decisions.
• A record will be kept of all animals euthanised for these reasons.
• The Chair of Trustees and CEO will be made aware of all behavioural euthanasia decisions.
3*A behaviour assessment will take place with any dog where known aggression or bite history is not conclusive, and any euthanasia decision will be based on all available information along with an assessment as point 2.