Harsh weather puts dogs in danger of euthanasia

Courtesy Photo

On Death Row: These puppies’ mother has already been euthanized and they face the same fate is someone doesn’t step up to adopt them immediately.

By LOU ANTONELLI

Managing Editor

With temperatures now dropping below freezing, the fate of homeless and abandoned dogs in Clarksville now hangs in the balance.

With the city shelter and local vet clinic running out of space as they take in dogs who otherwise would die of exposure, they may face little choice but to humanely euthanize the dogs.

“The Red River County Humane Society (RRCHS) has been providing spay and neuter assistance for over 20 years, yet people would rather dump or abandon puppies and adult dogs than be responsible pet owners,” says Humane Society President Beth Vogel.

The mother of the litter shown in the photo was euthanized because her owner was too irresponsible to have her spayed, said Vogel, “so she lost her life due to a person’s selfishness.” The puppies are at the Clarksville Animal Hospital. All told, there are 12 puppies in two litters who need rescue.

Another dog, a five-year old black lab female, also needs a home immediately and is danger of being euthanized.

The Humane Society will help with the vaccinations and spaying or neutering of any of these dogs. If you can help with any of these adoptions needed immediately, call the Humane Society at 903-966-2275.

Vogel said she would like to see some changes in city law.

“The Humane Society has asked the city to pass a spay and neuter ordinance, but no one seems to think the lives of animals are important,” she said. “The city and county both should address this long-standing problem rather than remain in the Dark Ages.”

“Most towns and cities have spay and neuter ordinances,” she continued.  “Clarksville and the county need to get with modern times and follow their example.”

“Animal lives do matter,” said Vogel. “They feel pain, neglect, abuse, cold and heat just as much as humans,” she said. “The lives of animals are important.”

The Clarksville Times has a fund to help pay for adoptions in the memory of Millie Antonelli, who passed away in May. If you like some help with the cost of adopting, call Lou or Patricia at 903-427-0002.