'We Are Killing for Space,' Commissioner Says of Animal Services

An adult Labrador retriever on Pasco County Animal Services’ euthanasia list has Pasco County Commissioner Pat Mulieri asking questions.

When the dog was initially brought to the Land O’ Lakes shelter, intake staff made notes about its disposition.

“Friendly, good on a leash, tolerates dogs at shelter” was how he was originally described, wrote Mulieri in an email to Patch.

Now, that very same dog is labeled as aggressive and sick. It’s scheduled for euthanasia on Wednesday, June 26, unless someone steps forward to adopt it.

The dramatic transformation of the dog’s labeling has Mulieri concerned.

“How did this transfer to (a) sick and aggressive dog,” she asked in an email also directed at Kevin Mallory, interim manager of animal services. Mallory took over the post after beleaguered former manager John Malley stepped down earlier this year.

Mallory hasn’t responded to Mulieri and he also hasn’t responded to an email from Patch..

Frustration Running High

“We need to be honest: we are killing for space,” Mulieri said. “Dogs that are very aggressive to people need to be (euthanized). But, there needs to be documentation on each dog. This dog is an example. No anecdotal info to show how he suddenly became aggressive.”

Problems at Animal Services are nothing new. Mulieri has raised awareness about overcrowding and lack of staff oversight in the past. She’s been working to change that – even spending her own time volunteering.

Changes, she said, are slow to take hold. For the black lab in question, they might not come fast enough.

Want to Help?

Mulieri said there’s still a chance to save the lab from scheduled euthanasia. If a potential adoptive owner steps forward or a rescue places a hold on him, the process could be halted.

For more information, contact Animal Services at 813-929-1212 or stop by the shelter at 19640 Dogpatch Lane. The dog’s ID number is D-0356. Rescue groups can also email adoptionpartners@pascocountyfl.net for details. There are several other dogs listed as sick and/or aggressive also slated for euthanasia on June 26.

See Also:

Pasco Animal Services Director Resigns

Commissioner 'Frustrated' With Overcrowding at Animal Services