Concerns about “heart stick” euthanasia procedures at the Salina Animal Shelter were raised publicly in two separate meetings by two different speakers.
At an Animal Advisory Board meeting, Michelle Thompson used public comment to describe what she said are welfare concerns if a “heart stick” procedure is performed on an animal that is conscious or not fully anesthetized. “The heart stick procedures, when performed on a conscious animal,aises profound welfare concerns,” Thompson said. She argued that professional veterinary and animal welfare guidance supports use of the procedure only when an animal is already unconscious, and said sedation should be treated as a critical safeguard.
Thompson also referenced past comments regarding animal control staff, alleging that some ACOs had taken wildlife home for rehabilitation “without state permits or license.”
Separately, Rose Base spoke during public comment at the Salina City Commission meeting this Monday, identifying herself as a retired former director of the shelter who retired in 2014. Base referenced inspection and complaint materials and included an allegation involving “heart stick” euthanasia “without proper sedation” involving a puppy or puppies.
Salina311 contacted the Salina Animal Shelter seeking response. Andrea Murphy, identified as Operations Superintendent, provided a detailed press release addressing multiple questions, but the response did not include a specific comment addressing the heart stick allegation.
Salina311 will update this story if the shelter provides a direct response to the claim.