Nov18
A Pit Bull's Merciful Death Ignites Controversy
Posted at 09:28 AM | Permalink
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Comments (77)
The case of Oreo, a pit bull who inspired headlines and received an outpouring of public sympathy when her "owner" tossed her off a Brooklyn rooftop in June (she fell six stories and broke both of her front legs), has ignited a controversy. Oreo was nursed back to health by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), but during her recovery, her caretakers noticed that she was prone to bouts of severe, unpredictable aggression. If anything, the ASPCA goes overboard in trying not to euthanize any animal, but Oreo was beyond their help and had failed every test for psychological stability that the organization had put to her. So with great reluctance, the ASPCA made the tough decision not to put children, other animals, or anyone else at risk and euthanized Oreo.
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Oreo's peaceful death at the hands of people who cared about her has brought unjust criticism down on these individuals' heads from some "no-kill" advocates who believe in life at all costs—no matter the pain or the price. Oreo was deeply disturbed, perhaps because of head injuries or beatings—who can say? But I ask anyone who is upset that they could not "rehabilitate" this "celebrity dog" to please remember that she is at peace. Unfortunately, many thousands of other wonderful dogs who will never hurt anyone are still going to have to be euthanized in New York City every year. If you have a good home to offer, there's an equally worthy dog waiting for your help. Instead of picketing the ASPCA, go adopt one of these caring animals. And remember, there are hundreds of thousands—maybe millions—of pit bulls who remain in the custody of cruel people who see them as little more than cheap burglar alarms or punching bags. No energy should be expended fretting over Oreo's euthanasia when action needs to be taken in their behalf.
When I recognized a name on the list of the protesters who came out against the ASPCA's action, I felt compelled to come to the defense of shelter workers who have to make heartbreaking decisions every day and sent the following letter to the organization's blog:
The nice-sounding but damaging "no-kill" movement exposes its lunacy by attacking an agency (the ASPCA) that took in an aggressive pit bull named Oreo from extreme abuse, paid to fix her two broken legs, and then, when she turns out to be far too dangerous and unpredictable around people, affords her a peaceful and dignified exit from the world that has miserably failed her ("Oreo is Dead," Nov. 13).
Leading the critics is Camille Hankins, the Director of Win Animal Rights, who was convicted of cruelty to animals in 1995 when nearly 100 animals were found stuffed into a tiny, filthy trailer rented by Hankins. Many of the animals found there were dying from contagious illnesses and many were literally scratching themselves to death and had bloody, seeping wounds from severe untreated mange infestations. Two cats removed by police from Hankins during the service of a search and seizure warrant were treated successfully and lived at PETA's headquarters for more than 10 years (you can read the details of the case here: http://www.pet-abuse.com/cases/4612/NC/US/).
The only humane way to achieve a "no kill" nation is to create a "no birth" nation by mandating spaying and neutering of dogs and cats to stop the flow of unwanted litters into our nation's shelters. We also need to penalize those who fail to act responsibly toward animals. In the meantime, those who make the toughest decisions, who have to euthanize animals for want of a proper home, and so carry out the hardest work of all, deserve respect and gratitude, not criticism. Learn more at helpinganimals.com.
Posted by Teresa Lynn Chagrin
Animal Care and Control Specialist
TAGGED:
Comments
No kill sounds great dosn't it? But in the real world sometimes it IS the kindest thing to do.
At the end of the day I'm sure that after spending all that money to save Oreo, the ASPCA didn't decide on a whime to end the pups life for no reason.
It is a terrible turn of events but at least now Oreo will be at peace, not chained in a back yard, not locked in a shelter kennel alone.
Don't breed and these problems will shrink to near nothing.
Posted by: Kelly | November 18, 2009 10:05 AM
I am a member of PETA but don't support all of their policies regarding the other animals, particularly their stand on no-kill shelters and pitbulls and asking KFC to kill the birds in a controlled atmosphere ( to me veganism should be promoted not a different method of killing).
I will always support no-kill shelters and the right of pitbulls to exist; I only support education about going vegan not different methods of killing.
It is a shame for the animals that even among their advocates there exists so much disagreement. Put egos aside and advocate for the animals.
Go vegan!
Posted by: AAG | November 18, 2009 10:11 AM
I'm confused as to why Peta is endorsing this story. Merciful Death? What was the excuse? Bouts of unpredictable and severe aggression? Gosh I know people like that and you're right, instead of working with the aggression I think we should just kill them. I mean, HELLO?! The dog was thrown off a building ... OF COURSE he has bouts of aggression!! He doesn't trust people! And then what do we do? Go and kill him? Wow ... real humane ASPCA. Did you try finding a shelter? Have you contacted any dog sanctuaries that might be able to help? And Peta, I'm ashamed you're supporting this. Dogs are more than play toys for humans. They deserve a life too even if they have a hot-temper.
Posted by: Shelly | November 18, 2009 10:13 AM
This leads me to ask: Did Oreo's owner throw her off the roof because she was naturally unpredictably aggressive, or did the owner make her aggressive, which backfired on him one day, causing him to throw her off the roof?
Posted by: Rev. Meg Schramm | November 18, 2009 10:17 AM
We need Federal laws demanding that people spay/neuter their pets of face fines and other penalties to include losing their pets! We need to close the puppy mills nationwide and install some real penalties for animal abuse, enough is enough this lunacy needs to stop, we can make a big difference by being responsible people!
Posted by: Rhonda Clements | November 18, 2009 11:05 AM
sounds like the PRO CHOICE movement talking. Making martyrs out of murderers
Posted by: Ginny Emery | November 18, 2009 11:05 AM
I don't care how aggressive an animal is I do not agree with euthanasia, do we do that to people? No, so why should we do that to an animal, get your trainers involved....
Posted by: Patrice | November 18, 2009 11:06 AM
I support no kill and would love if that could be the standard, but I am also not naive enough to think that euthanasia can always be avoided. Anyone who has worked in rescue is aware of how HUGE the problem is. There is only enough money and resources to go around, and sometimes is a last resort, unfortunately. It is very unrealistic to beleive that every single rescued, unwanted, abused and homeless animal could be housed and cared for. There is simply WAAAAY to many of them, and not enough of us and not enough room. Sad but true. Lets focus on the breeders who continue to produce puppies, the industries that support overbreeding (racing, etc) and the petstores and customers who keep them in business. PETA and the ASPCA are NOT the enemies!!!
Posted by: Diane Field | November 18, 2009 11:08 AM
It is so sad to hear of this kind of people, it's disgusting to think of them as HUMAN BEINGS!! Rest in peace Oreo =(.
Posted by: Michelle | November 18, 2009 11:13 AM
Of course she was aggressive - she was in pain. And, yes, sadly people have to euthanize dogs that are a danger to people. That's the way people trained them, and sometimes - Note SOMETIMES it's irreversible. In this case, it wouldn't surprise me if this was the case.
(BTW, you go from the dog being a hero to suddenly the dog being aggressive in your response to the no-killers. Isn't this a bit odd? Hmmm?...)
However - that's NOT always the case, some dogs, if properly re-trained, can be gentle and help out others.
What disappoints me though PETA is that reading this - you imply that you support the killing of animals no matter if they're healthy or not because it's more "Humane." Death is death - there's nothing humane about it.
(BTW - any dog can be trained for aggression, not just pit bulls. Why - and be honest here - do you guys just focus on the dog instead of all breeds? Do you want to eradicate the species still?)
Posted by: Mel | November 18, 2009 11:13 AM
Exactly! Well spoken, Teresa!
Posted by: Shelley Reese | November 18, 2009 11:14 AM
oh, such a sad story :( I don't know whether or not the dog should have been euthanized, but it's clear it was agressive because of the abuse it endured for years... people (the community) should be more aware of how their fellow men treat their pets and make a stand whenever they suspect abuse... then there would be less heartbreaking cases like this one... RIP, Oreo :(
Posted by: A | November 18, 2009 11:16 AM
As we say in the "VETERINARY FIELD" "Better a KIND DEATH, than a CRUEL LIFE"
Posted by: Darla Tyler | November 18, 2009 11:17 AM
I am posting with what I posted on my FB page yesterday. People need to get their priorities straight. Don't whine once the damage is done, stop the damage from happening!
This was my post: The only reason that I am posting this is because... Neighbors HEARD this dog's owner beating her for 20-30 minutes before he threw her 6 floors off the roof. Are humans REALLY that cold? The dog, a messed up pit bull, will now be put down... Now people are pissed. I find it hard to believe that only 2 people (who ...ignored it) heard the yelping of this dog for 20-30 minutes. At least she doesn't have to worry about being abused any more. Maybe this story will keep you from sitting, acting like you don't hear anything. I am done ranting.
Posted by: Ginger | November 18, 2009 11:18 AM
In Chile we have this problem every day, but we don't count with the help of institutions like ASPCA.
Now they are trying to bring out a law where all the dogs that are found on the streets, will be kill, so they can stop the "problem" of street dogs.
I think we are the only country where the director of our national instution against animal cuelty is in jail because of killing all of the animals that where kept there.
We need your help, we need to teach people of this problem, and that we can do something for animals. i'm a volunteer in an animal shelter, but now we have about 250 dogs, and are getting out of resources. Please help us!
best wishes from Chile.
Sorry for my english but we speak spanish!
Posted by: monica marin | November 18, 2009 11:27 AM
Why would SPCA claim that they are (NO KILL ) shelter then they kill this dog!!!? This is sooo sad......I supported SPCA because they were a no kill shelter...:(
Posted by: amani | November 18, 2009 11:34 AM
This is disgracfull, someone that would do this to a poor animal! But at least she isnt in pain anymore. God bless you Oreo!
Posted by: Taylor | November 18, 2009 12:25 PM
This is disgracfull, someone that would do this to a poor animal! But at least she isnt in pain anymore. God bless you Oreo!
Posted by: Taylor | November 18, 2009 12:25 PM
I'm sorry but I'm torn on this one, although I support Animal Birth Control 110% I do believe in my heart Oreo deserved a second chance. Seeing what the little guy went through we should of fought for him. Rest In Peace now little buddy.
Posted by: Carla* | November 18, 2009 12:36 PM
I feel that the ASPCA did not make the right decision. They should not have euthanized Oreo. It is questionable how the ASPCA came to the conclusion that it would be "best for Oreo and the Community" that she be euthanized. This is an ethical issue that needs to be addressed and dealt with!
Why decide to euthanize her after she had been through most of that painful healing process already? It has already been so painful for her, I bet. How much worse do you think it can get? Don't you think Oreo would have chosen life over death? It hurts me to deduce that this was solely done for the benefit of the community.
Posted by: Ashay Doshi | November 18, 2009 12:47 PM
Thanks for posting this - anyone who takes a black and white stance, such as "no-kill" clearly can't see the larger picture. No animal rights activist working for these orgnizations EVER wants to euthanize an animal, and I'm sure it is always done with a heavy heart but in some cases it is what is best for the animal and the human population. I look forward to the day when all animals are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve and we no longer have to have this debate. Thank you to you all for all that you do to support the animals (and empower us to help them)
Posted by: Eve | November 18, 2009 12:53 PM
You have my support. Due to circumstances, what other choice did you have? Either euthanizing Oreo, allowing her to have a dignified death, or taking the risk of having her attacking humans or any other living creatures. Unless she was under a muzzle or kept away 24/7. Further more, what kind of a life would Oreo have with two broken legs. Would they ever heal?
Posted by: Helena Vasco | November 18, 2009 12:58 PM
You have my support. Due to circumstances, what other choice did you have? Either euthanizing Oreo, allowing her to have a dignified death, or taking the risk of having her attacking humans or any other living creatures. Unless she was under a muzzle or kept away 24/7. Further more, what kind of a life would Oreo have with two broken legs? Would they ever heal?
Posted by: Helena Vasco | November 18, 2009 12:58 PM
You are so right. No kill = No birth. Thank you so much for writing!
Posted by: Kyleigh | November 18, 2009 01:09 PM
How could people do this. Dogs are loving amimals. Being a god owner my self i could never image that happending. Reat In Peace Oreo. we will miss you
Posted by: Sara Zena | November 18, 2009 01:17 PM
How could people do this. Dogs are loving amimals. Being a god owner my self i could never image that happending. Reat In Peace Oreo. we will miss you
Posted by: Sara Zena | November 18, 2009 01:17 PM
It angers me that the attention has been centred on the animal shelter when in fact the source of the problem is the owner. If the owner had not of mistreated the dog, the dog would not be afraid and defensive. If the dog had recieved love from its owner and not been thrown from the home (six storeys high). The animal would not have been injured and ended up in the care of the animal shelter. And if the public had acted sooner and reported this abuse, then none of this would have happened!
Posted by: Miss Beck | November 18, 2009 01:27 PM
Amen to you Teresa Chagrin. The problem are irresponsible pet owners that need to be punished.
Posted by: Mirta | November 18, 2009 01:48 PM
It is a hard ending to swallow. Shelters have the responsibility to protect the public and the animal itself. Sure they could rehabilitate her and she could be a perfect dog with them, but that's not saying she will be perfect/safe in a new family. Pit bulls are a powerful breed, and there fore need experienced and breed knowledgeable owners. Dogs need consistency in exercise, discipline, and affection. They are pack animals and have to have direction otherwise they feel the need to control situations which can have bad results. Pit bulls are beautiful and loyal dogs eager to please. It hurts that so many are put into cruel situations the ultimately make it impossible for them to be adopted because of the risks involved. No decision to end an animals life is taken lightly and it effects the workers as well, just watch animal cops on animal planet. I plan to open a rescue/rehabilitation/adoption center for animals with behavorial issues or special needs. I want to try my best and work with the animals to give them a chance to show they do not need to be euthanized, but I know all can not be saved due to safety issues. I would much rather have them go in peace than to be tortured and die alone.
Posted by: Jessica | November 18, 2009 02:00 PM
Again, PETA is the voice of reason. Thankyou.
Posted by: Brad King | November 18, 2009 02:03 PM
Thank you so much for telling it like it is.
People always want to blame the last person that couldn't save the animals instead of ALL THE PEOPLE who hurt, neglected and abused them throughout their entire suffering life.
Thank you again for putting the spot light back onto the abusers where it belongs!
Posted by: Shari | November 18, 2009 02:08 PM
I happened to know Camilla Hankins as i was once part of WAR but this woman does nothing but moan and moan and more about other animal rights and protection groups, she's forever on a power trip with very few people in her life and is run with ego. Get out of the movement your not wanted Hankins.
Posted by: Arden White | November 18, 2009 02:08 PM
I honestly believe that euthenasia is one of the kindest gifts man can give to an animal who has lived a life full of broken promises, neglect and abuse. Death is sometimes the only comfort an animal receives in its lifetime.
Posted by: Michelle | November 18, 2009 02:32 PM
I have heard from Oreo and I felt sorry, so sorry for her death. Now she is in the dogs paradise, I hope!
The owner has to be punished for doing such a terrible thing to her dog! I feel bad to see Humans acting like this towards animals. It is disgusting. Shame on them!
Posted by: Marilyn | November 18, 2009 02:52 PM
The only time an animal needs to be put down is if it's suffering to the point that NOTHING can be done to help it or if there is NO WAY the animal can be retrained. Unfortunately, this is the case here - the animal couldn't be trained to be safe around animals.
But, blame the owner, not the dog as far as this animal's death. He didn't teach the dog to be good, and yes, the animal didn't learn good skills.
All this said - any animal can become like this if taught that way, not just a pit bull (I have been attacked by a poodle who flipped its lid) so if you don't feel like you can teach a dog/cat/other pet to be loving and kind toward anyone, don't have a pet.
Posted by: Jade | November 18, 2009 04:05 PM
No Kill is now getting support from and is involved with breeder lobbies like the AKC.
These breeders make money breeding dogs that are aggressive and don't want to admit their dogs are dangerous.
So they have joined with No Kill to help dangerous dogs kill more people and pets.
No Kill is helping these pit bulls suffer, get warehoused, get abused at hoarders, and helping pit bull breeders breed more dogs to abuse through fighting or to sell.
The No Kill community stopped caring about the animals a long time ago!
Posted by: Kiki | November 18, 2009 04:21 PM
Great article Teresa! Very well said and so true...
Posted by: Smita asrani | November 18, 2009 04:32 PM
No kill sounds great, but it definitely is not always possible. Just because the ASPCA can make hard decisions that y'all couldn't if put in the same position does not mean they're wrong. People shouldn't be angry with them, they should be angry with the owner. If you aren't fit to take care of and love an animal, you should not own one!!
Posted by: Ashley | November 18, 2009 04:35 PM
Was this dog prone to be aggressive because her two front legs were broken??? Possibly!Poor darling. RIP
Posted by: Peta | November 18, 2009 05:31 PM
Was this dog prone to be aggressive because her two front legs were broken??? Possibly!Poor darling. RIP
Posted by: Peta | November 18, 2009 05:31 PM
"We need Federal laws demanding that people spay/neuter their pets of face fines and other penalties to include losing their pets!"
This is not the way. I have a dog, she was never spayed, but she has never produced an unwanted litter either. By your standards, I should have lost my dog because of a personal choice. How many unwanted human children are born everyday? Yet we never demand any control over the "right" to breed in humans.
Also one must remember that puppy mills and other "breeding operations" thrive on the HUMAN need for animal companionship. Making puppies/dog/kittens/cats less common will innevitably increase the price of animals, especially purebreeds, which means even less responsible breeding practices. This makes things worst in the long run.
I agree that animal cruelty must be spotted, but I don't agree with the means which are suggested. The idea is to maintain loving homes for pets, making people understand that pet ownership is not easy and that it comes with many ups and downs.
Posted by: Karen Letkeman | November 18, 2009 06:29 PM
That's a very sad story :( It sounds strange that the dog failed every test for psychological stability. I've heard of something called idiopathic aggression or idiopathic rage syndrome... and dogs can't recover from it because its a problem in the brain. Maybe that had something to do with the aggression... idk, just a thought.
Posted by: catb13 | November 18, 2009 06:39 PM
The people who knew she was being beaten and did not intervene are just as guilty as the person who beat her.
Posted by: Kelley | November 18, 2009 06:40 PM
Sometimes the damage done to an animal physically is so extensive that a gentle death is the only option.
Sometimes the psychological damage is so severe that the only kind option is release from life. it doesn't matter how many alternatives are proferred Oreo would have been in an agony of fear and distrust. Who would want to prolong that suffering.
I have adopted companions living with me now from both no-kill and rspca. They all recieved the best care available in the shelters that housed them. Desex, register and microchip all companion animals by law. Increase penalties for cruelty and neglect to mandatory jail terms and fund higher levels of animal protection. Support organisations that support animals.
Posted by: Coral Giffin | November 18, 2009 06:49 PM
That poor animal was thrown off the roof by the one person who SHOULD have loved and protected her. Of course she would have problems, god knows what happened to her before then. That poor dog probably lived in constant fear that the loving workers who took care of her would turn on her like her owner. No wonder she had bouts of aggression, she was uncertain and scared. I hope that she's now in doggie heaven and I hope in owner goes to hell.
Posted by: chris | November 18, 2009 07:10 PM
Yes, no kill sounds great, but it is not always so. I volunteered working with the cats at the nearest no kill shelter in my area only to find it extremely overcrowded, and to find animals spending 24 hours (minus the few minutes their cage is being cleaned each day) in small cages - some of them are there for YEARS! They did have one or two free roaming rooms, but still I would guess about 50-100 animals were caged. No kill shelters should also be cage free. Otherwise it's just cruel.
Posted by: lauren kelly | November 18, 2009 07:26 PM
Good article.
That Hankins sounds like a joke, unbelievable!
Posted by: E | November 18, 2009 07:53 PM
I am in total agreement of ASPCA actions in this case. It is obvious that everything was done in this case to ensure the best outcome with a loving heart. When animals are unsafe the best choice is to put them down humanely when all other options fail. Thank you for caring enough.
Posted by: Daina | November 18, 2009 08:00 PM
ASPCA should have waited to see if they could have transferred Oreo to the Animal Shelter in Hudson Valley. I have always supported ASPCA and am beginning to have my doubts. The dog was punished for something it wasn't to blame for. There was an option. It is heartless for the write to write "No energy should be expended fretting over Oreo's euthanasia." Why not? You can indeed spend energy mourning for Oreo and adopt shelter dogs too.
Posted by: Rachel Lite | November 18, 2009 08:14 PM
okay the dog was suffering, and had tempermental problems.OKAY, HE WAS SUFFERING!!!!!
They best choice was to put him down.
jeeezzzzzzz
Posted by: Puppy | November 18, 2009 08:48 PM
okay the dog was suffering, and had tempermental problems.OKAY, HE WAS SUFFERING!!!!!
They best choice was to put him down.
jeeezzzzzzz
Posted by: Puppy | November 18, 2009 08:49 PM
well said PETA. i find it impossible to understand why commonsense and reason is almost always absent when issues surrounding pitbulls, and euthanasia of dangerous animals is discussed. companion animals and pets are not dispensible throw-away luxury items. that simple.
Posted by: vegancoin | November 18, 2009 09:09 PM
Sometimes the kindest decision is the hardest one to make. No living thing deserves to suffer. At least Oreo is at peace now and deserves that. Which is more than I can say for the owner..... Great article Teresa. U hit the nail on the head!
Posted by: Gretel Rainbow | November 18, 2009 10:10 PM
Throw the people who thur Oreo in a pit!!!
RIP OREO
GOD BLESS YOU!
Posted by: jackie danna | November 18, 2009 10:59 PM
I work with a group and on my own rescuing abused animals, dogs, cats, horses. It is a sad, sad world out there, a lot of suffering at the hands of humans. Help your local animal shelters by donating money and time and love your pets. If you can't take care of them or love them PLEASE find someone who can and will!! Don't throw them away and don't let them starve to death!! Thank you.
Posted by: Jana | November 18, 2009 11:01 PM
I Think this is a terrible person for taking advantage of another life person or animal!!! Some people think life is just a big joke,if that person was tossed carelessly off a building six stories off the ground they would probably understand the pain and anguish that dog went through.I would not trust a person either and be a little more than trying to eat everything in my path,
Posted by: Charles Curtis | November 19, 2009 01:50 AM
I agree with Michelle's post:
I honestly believe that euthenasia is one of the kindest gifts man can give to an animal who has lived a life full of broken promises, neglect and abuse. Death is sometimes the only comfort an animal receives in its lifetime.
She is in good hands now, in doggy heaven, I am sure...
Posted by: Jennifer | November 19, 2009 06:20 AM
erf.... One thing is obvious, we cannot assume the right to "judge" on animals or other beings than us human as long as we wont be able to fully communicate or understand them.
It is a very difficult matter, and we should not take decisions so "easely" (I'm talking about this poor celebrity dog, the rest of unfortunate and punishable crimes is another story right now)about to end or not a life...
This dog, as stated could be aggressive SIMPLY because of his injuries OR MAYBE because of FEAR and/or TRAUMA generated toward HUMANS after the NICE LAST EXPIERIENCE he had to live in the hands of one of them. Did any canine "PSI" at the ASPCA took that into evaluation? Well I don't like to judge of course, but life has taught me that many times we humans become quite incompetent in some matters...
Maybe it was easier to SACRIFICE the dog instead of spending many years to come to rehabilitate the dogs trust towards humans
Posted by: sergio | November 19, 2009 08:38 AM
I dont know all the details but to have gone to all the trouble to save this poor animal who probably became aggressive at the hands of humans I think a person like Cesar Milan could have helped this dog. Many said that the Michael Vick dogs could not be rehabilitated and they were wrong!!! The right people believed they could and were!!!
Posted by: Rachel | November 19, 2009 10:36 AM
One day human kind will raise to a state of conciseness in witch we can see our deeds as a race living up to our condition of human beings!
In that day we will have evolved enough to look at today`s activities regarding our relationship with the planet and other species as brutal, egoistic and barbaric as other middle aged activities we engaged in the past.
Evolution is a matter of free will and the right motivation to walk the talk.
Posted by: Jorge Gusmão | November 19, 2009 10:44 AM
It's seems to me like the ASPCA tried evertyhing possible to save Oreo. Her passing was peaceful. The ASPCA euthanized her in a compassionate and loving way. Think of the millions that are euthanized in barbaric gas chambers or are injected by inexperienced employees at shelters. As sad as it is to put down any animal, I believe that the people at the ASPCA are kind.
Posted by: Janet | November 19, 2009 10:49 AM
Pets Alive is a no-kill animal shelter, located in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains, about 1 1/2 hours from New York City. Thier mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and place animals in need. Victims of neglect, abuse, and violence, many of them have special needs and have been rejected by other organizations.
Animals at the sanctuary range from dogs and cats to farm animals, exotic birds, and many others. Many of the animals at Pets Alive are older, have special needs or require special care.Shame on you PETA.
Posted by: Susan | November 19, 2009 11:05 AM
I'm a newbie at owning a Pit Bull and I've had my little George for over a year now from a puppy. He is the most amazing unique dog I've known. He has no sign of aggression towards any animals or people. He especially loves kids and my ferrets. I didnt buy him but got him from a local person who had puppies by accident with her two dogs. He is pure and just knowing what I know now about these beautiful loving dogs makes me wonder how anyone could not want the best for them. I agree with the ASPCA on what they did for Oreo. Who know's where that poor dog would have ended up and think of the many wonderful dogs that need a home. The ASPCA is a wonderful organization. Please support it
Posted by: Bethany | November 19, 2009 03:14 PM
... did anyone contact Cesar Millan?? He has truly rehabilitated dogs that had NO HOPE!!! .. I must say that this in the heels of the Memphis disaster leaves LITTLE if NO credibility for the SPCA ...
Posted by: Patricia Gonzalez-Powell | November 19, 2009 04:14 PM
If people were responsible and spayed/neutered their companion animals and then took care of them for life instead of considering them disposable, we wouldn't even be having this argument. I completely agree that having to euthanize animals because there are no homes for them is horribly sad. But what is the alternative? Keep them in "no kill" shelters where once they are filled, animals who might be adopted are turned away to who-knows-what fate, and the animals in the "shelter" live in a cage for the rest of their lives?There are millions and millions of stray animals and a no kill nation can only happen in a no birth nation. Thank you to those hard working animal advocates who do the dirty work of caring and humanely euthanizing animals with no future. Those of you so outraged, volunteer at an animal shelter and see the truth. I HATE that it is this way, but the ugly truth is, we made this situation and need to do the responsible and compassionate actions to have any chance of changing the future.
Posted by: Susan Hoppler | November 20, 2009 12:58 AM
If people were responsible and spayed/neutered their companion animals and then took care of them for life instead of considering them disposable, we wouldn't even be having this argument. I completely agree that having to euthanize animals because there are no homes for them is horribly sad. But what is the alternative? Keep them in "no kill" shelters where once they are filled, animals who might be adopted are turned away to who-knows-what fate, and the animals in the "shelter" live in a cage for the rest of their lives?There are millions and millions of stray animals and a no kill nation can only happen in a no birth nation. Thank you to those hard working animal advocates who do the dirty work of caring and humanely euthanizing animals with no future. Those of you so outraged, volunteer at an animal shelter and see the truth. I HATE that it is this way, but the ugly truth is, we made this situation and need to do the responsible and compassionate actions to have any chance of changing the future.
Posted by: Susan Hoppler | November 20, 2009 12:59 AM
I am not an advocate of life at all costs and I do agree that, if an animal cannot have a decent quality of life, euthanasia might be the best option. However, here, a sanctuary named Pets Alive that specializes in rehabbing dogs like Oreo offered to take her. Please read their side of the story before you all rush to defend the ASPCA. There is plenty of information on the web.
Posted by: Antigone1000 | November 20, 2009 07:55 AM
i have a 7 month old pitbull, she is the most amazing dog in the world. she is so kind and full of kisses, it upsets me to read this kind of stuff because this is NOT RIGHT. these dogs are just like any other dogs they just need to be in the right hands. with kind people who really do care. they are not mean animals... i also have a 2 year old mini schnauzer and they LOVE each other. i wish people would take into consideration that these dogs need help imagine how many are out there today RIGHT now being hurt, starved, and beat. this poor puppy was trained wrong, did not trust man kind... i can not blame her.. what a thing to go through the pain and being scared of everything. it is sad that she had to be put down, i hope that they tested her for months to see if she could change becauise they ALLL can just because they are mean and you cant take the chance doesnt mean she could of changed .. she just needed to be shown love. for longer than a month.
Posted by: stephanie gillis | November 20, 2009 11:22 AM
BRAVO PETA! I'm 100% with you on this one! Unfortunately, a lot of people are not looking at the future for dogs like Oreo, & only looking at the here & now. Oreo would have had to have MULTIPLE handlers for the rest of her life because of the extensive injuries, and even though she COULD be rehabbed, she wouldn't necessarily STAY that way when new handlers or Doctors come on the scene, and the other thing people are not looking at, is the first time someone gets bitten, they will shoot these dogs first & ask questions later, I do wish people would see the reality of this!
Posted by: Susan Davis | November 20, 2009 02:08 PM
I want to make this brief, because so many points that I think are important, have already been stated by so many. What troubles me is this: why did not the ASPCA hand over Oreo to other caring and reputable groups who so readily offered their assistance? I believe that the ASPCA did everything humanly possible and exhausted every avenue to help Oreo, but why choose to put him down when others, who are are also professionals and experts, were willing to take him in? Why not give Oreo another chance or chances at rehabilitation? What did the ASPCA have to lose? – The decision to euthanize was in the process of being made – why go through with it if helping hands were reaching out? – I’m stumped by this! Maybe Oreo needed more time – much more time -- maybe Oreo would have benefited from a different environment and additional expertise of others – even a slim chance is better than death – once again, what did the ASPCA have to lose? If this question could only be answered, it would help me understand better. And, what’s more, forget the defense that Oreo was a threat and danger to society – he’s not roaming the streets! I think a mistake was made by putting him to death. And because of this, we will never know what his true outcome would have been and could have been.
Posted by: ms | November 20, 2009 04:50 PM
It is incredibly tragic that Oreo had to be euthanized. But consider her feelings, first. No one could really know how she was feeling. Just because her injuries were treated and appeared to be healed is no reason to assume that she still wasn't in constant pain to a degree. How could she not be?
She was thrown from a 6th story building!!! It is astounding that she survived. How tragic that kind people worked very hard to help her heal but the damage to her psyche proved to be insurmountable. She is at peace now. For a few months she was able to receive love, tenderness and kindness and I'm sure she realized that not all humans are vicious as was her piece-of-garbage owner.
My biggest concern is what will happen at the trial of that disgusting slimeball, Fabian Henderson? Will his bottom-feeding public defender use this information to plead for probation, arguing that the dog was inherently vicious and he reacted out of fear by throwing her off the roof? I shudder to think of what will happen during the trial.
All we can hope for is that the judge will look at his act as senseless and truly cruel and sentence him to a meaningful jail term regardless.
25 years would be good but I must be realistic.
When it comes to animal cruelty, rarely does the punishment come anywhere close to the depravity of the crime.
New York needs to hear from its citizenry--LOUD AND CLEAR!
Let the complaints and outrage begin! Abuse an animal and you will do prison time!
Posted by: Susan t | November 20, 2009 07:06 PM
as a owner of a bull terrier who has mood swings and has a aggressive nature I dont feel any animal should be put to death because of this. My Amy has never bite anyone, we have learnt to deal with her mood swings and have managed over the years to learn more about them and what is the course of them. She is the most loyal and lovable 24kg lap dog. I trust her 100% and know she would never bite me.I do not put her in a position to feel threatened so she can not harm anyone or anything. The trick is to find the right people for these special needs dogs.
Posted by: Marie Edwards | November 24, 2009 03:44 AM
Death is a last option. Oreo deserved a chance with a reputable group. I appriciate PETA's undercover work but I believe in No Kill
Posted by: Dawn B. | November 28, 2009 09:10 PM
A word of advice: You should not have mentioned this. If you support it, don't mention it. It's just going to piss off a lot of people and they are the ones donating. I quit donating to the ASPCA years ago because they oppose spay/neuter legislation and say breeders can be "responsible". HOW can breeders be responsible when 10 to 15 million a year die because there aren't enough homes for them all. When people buy a dog,they kill a shelter dog. California alone spends a quarter of a billion dollars a year on animal control and puts to death a half million dogs, cats, puppies and kittens. So, no, there is no such thing as "responsible breeding." TOO MANY ARE DYING AND GETTING KILLED. So my donations to the ASPCA has ceased.
Posted by: Luke Thomas | November 29, 2009 02:16 AM
The only thing disturbing about this BILL forcing places like ASPCA to relinquish the dog to another facility willing to take it-is that I have been seeing a LOT of animal "no kill" shelters lately having been accused or were convicted of animal cruelty due to neglect; I'm not saying all of them are like that, but there are those who ARE like that - lack of funds means less food and less litter. Trust me I seen PLENTY of examples lately it would have been a much better fate if the animals were put in the pound and euthanized rather than slowly starve to death or live in diarrhea infested cage and slowly die of diseases. Yeah, they don't kill them-they let them starve to death or die of diseases. According to the story Oreo completely recovered from his injuries - six months after. Oreo was a vicious dog. I thought it appropriate to euthanize this pit bull mix, though I thought originally considering the dog was tossed out of a six story window why didn't they euthanize him from the very beginning.
Point is Oreo was clearly a vicious dog. There are plenty of others that need rescuing who aren't vicious. INSTEAD OF COMPLAINING ABOUT EUTHANIZING A VICIOUS DOG, GO TO YOUR LOCAL DOG POUND AND GET A CAT OR TWO OR DOG OR TWO AND SAVE THEIR LIFE. THEY *WILL* BE KILLED IN SIX DAYS OR LESS. OR SOLD FOR HIDEOUS VIVISECTION EXPERIMENTS.
Posted by: Luke Thomas | November 30, 2009 04:57 PM
Amen Luke. For all of you who think otherwise, Pets Alive is NOT a reputable sanctuary and no shelter with scruples would send an animal there to suffer.
Posted by: Amanda | December 1, 2009 03:02 PM
Rest In Peace Oreo
Posted by: Tricia | December 3, 2009 08:59 PM