While the idea of animal euthanasia may be disturbing to pet owners, it is unfortunately a common occurrence in animal shelters. Texas has once again been reported to have the highest number of shelter animals being euthanized for the second consecutive year, as per the Best Friends Network.
The fees for consumption have increased while the fees for adoption have decreased, leading to overcrowding in shelters. It is heartbreaking to witness sick dogs and those deemed less desirable being put on a euthanasia list to make space for others. Darla was one of the lucky pups who were rescued just in time. Here’s her story:
Darla, a lovable Golden Retriever, was living at the Laredo Animal Care Services shelter in Texas. Described as very shy, she struggled to adapt to shelter life. Due to overcrowding, the shelter had to make the difficult decision to euthanize some animals, with the less adoptable ones being put on the list. Sweet Darla found herself on that list.
In July 2023, as shelter staff tried to take Darla to the euthanasia room, she became frightened and unable to walk. Her legs gave out, and she had to be carried and placed in a wheelbarrow. Luckily, members of Austin Pets Alive!, a non-profit organization that rescues animals from euthanasia, were at the shelter that day to save some dogs and give them a second chance at life.
Clare Callison, the head of operations for Austin Pets Alive!, was also present that day.
“I had a feeling it was around the time when the shelter typically euthanizes animals to make room in the kennels,” she recalled.
While walking down the hallway, they noticed a timid Golden Retriever cowering in a blue wheelbarrow. They soon realized that the frightened dog was on her way to being euthanized.
Saved Just in Time
Image source: Austin Pets Alive!
The moment they laid eyes on her, they knew they had to save her.
“It was essential that we rescue her, that we give her a chance at a happy life. Every pet in the shelter deserves that, and that’s what we are committed to achieving,” stated Jordana Moerbe, APA!’s national shelter support director.
Upon learning from the shelter staff that Darla’s shyness was the only reason she was at risk of being euthanized, Callison gently comforted her. Despite her timidity, Darla showed signs of warmth and affection, soaking up the love and attention.
After a thorough medical examination at the vet, it was discovered that Darla was just an eight-month-old puppy.
APA! reached out to their partners, the Mile High Lab Mission in Denver, Colorado, who quickly found Darla a foster home eager to welcome her.
When Darla met her foster family, she wagged her tail – a gesture she had never shown during her time at the shelter. Finally, she could let go of her fears and allow her new family to care for her.
“She was a completely different dog now,” Callison noted.
On August 9th, 2023, the Mile High Lab Mission announced the joyous news that Darla had been adopted. She now resides with a loving family who cherishes her deeply. Our wishes go out to her for a life filled with love and boundless happiness.
