Lost Dogs' Home Under Fire for Puppy Euthanasia

The Lost Dogs' Home is facing significant criticism following the euthanasia of a 12-week-old puppy named Murphy. The decision, attributed to behavioural tests, has sparked outrage and calls for greater transparency and accountability in animal shelter practices. Despite the backlash, local councils have indicated they will maintain their contracts with the organisation.

Key Takeaways

• The Lost Dogs' Home euthanised a 12-week-old puppy, Murphy, due to behavioural concerns.
• Animal Justice Party MP Georgie Purcell has called for an independent oversight mechanism for euthanasia decisions.
• The shelter defends its actions, citing its status as an open-intake shelter and its duty of care.
• Frankston and Kingston Councils will continue their arrangements with The Lost Dogs' Home.

Controversy Erupts Over Puppy's Fate

Animal Justice Party MP Georgie Purcell has strongly condemned The Lost Dogs' Home for euthanising Murphy, a young puppy who reportedly failed the shelter's behavioural assessments. Purcell raised concerns in parliament about the lack of documentation and transparency surrounding such decisions, questioning whether all alternative options were explored and if assessments were conducted in a less stressful environment than a shelter.

Shelter Defends Euthanasia Practices

The Lost Dogs' Home has defended its decision, stating that Murphy was assessed as unsuitable for rehoming due to "anti-social behaviour and a high risk of developing aggression." They described his behaviour as "highly unusual and rare" for a puppy of his age. The organisation highlighted its role as one of Victoria's largest open-intake shelters, meaning it accepts all animals regardless of their condition. They also provided statistics for 2024, noting that behaviour was a reason for 971 out of 4190 cat euthanasias and 611 out of 1065 dog euthanasias. The shelter emphasised that nearly half of the euthanised dogs were put down due to serious issues such as biting people, being euthanised under council order, or attacking other animals.

Calls for Reform and Community Response

Purcell has urged the state government to investigate appointing an independent oversight body for euthanasia decisions based on behaviour and to mandate that shelters offer animals flagged for behavioural euthanasia to authorised rehoming organisations, unless they have been legally declared dangerous. A petition demanding a formal investigation into Murphy's case has already gathered over 1000 signatures.

Murphy's Sister Milly's Future

In response to community concern, The Lost Dogs' Home confirmed that Murphy's sister, Milly, is safe and being cared for by a behaviour foster carer. While Milly is showing signs of improvement, the shelter noted she exhibits "poor impulse control and fear-related aggression and arousal." They are working with rescue organisations to develop an intensive rehabilitation program for her, and she will remain in foster care until a clear pathway is established.

Council Support Remains Unwavering

Despite the controversy, both Frankston and Kingston Councils have confirmed they will continue their existing service agreements with The Lost Dogs' Home. Labor MP Michael Galea acknowledged the importance of ongoing discussions between councils and their animal shelter service providers.

Sources

• Lost Dogs’ Home defends euthanasia decision, Bayside News.