Our No Kill Policy

The Porter County Animal Shelter is a NO KILL Shelter in that we euthanize only non-rehabilitatable pets who are irremediably suffering or dangerous to people or other pets.  The Shelter only considers euthanasia as an absolute last resort where no other avenue is open to prevent a danger to the public, other animals, or pain and suffering of the animal. 

In euthanasia cases for reasons of age, medical and Parvo, a veterinarian is consulted and provides expert information regarding diagnosis, prognosis, treatment options and treatment costs.  Prior to considering euthanasia of an animal for age or medical reasons, efforts are made to place the animal with an approved rescue organization that has the capacity to provide the necessary care of the animal.

In euthanasia cases for the reason of aggression, an animal behavior specialist is consulted and provides expert information regarding risks to the public, Shelter staff, and other animals and provides an opinion as to whether the aggressive behavior can be successfully managed through training.  Prior to considering euthanasia for aggressive behavior, efforts are made to place the animal with an approved rescue organization that has the capacity to provide the necessary behavior modifications.

In all cases of euthanasia, the final decision is made by consensus of the three person Shelter management team, the Shelter animal handlers, and the veterinarian or animal behavior specialist, as appropriate.

Transparency

As a Shelter that is funded primarily with taxpayer dollars with significant additional support by donors, we believe that we have an obligation to provide regular information to the public about with data about our intakes and outcomes.  Beginning in September of 2015, we publish intake and outcome data, at least semi-annually, on this page.  You can find the reports below.