NE Iowa Humane Society Disputes Cat Euthansia

DUBUQUE, Iowa (AP) — The Dubuque Regional Humane Society is defending itself against widespread criticism on social media of its decision to euthanize a kitten.

Maria Benham, the CEO and President at the regional humane society, released a four-page statement outlining the organization's policy regarding euthanasia.

The criticism began when a volunteer, Lois Sutton Richardson, admitted a cat named Brooklyn in mid-January. Richardson assured the humane society staff that Brooklyn was adoptable, but Brooklyn was euthanized last week.

Richardson was reprimanded for after saying the humane society's veterinarian was "kill happy." After Richardson posted her frustration on Facebook, she was fired. A Facebook post about her dismissal was shared 764 times.

The organization said Brooklyn acted aggressively toward several staff members.

___