Mohawk and Hudson River Humane Society

Dear Editor,

Yesterday, my husband and I had to put our 18 year old beloved cat, Daniel, to sleep. We made the decision when we observed that he was no longer eating or drinking.

We called the Hudson Mohawk Humane Society and we were told that "yes" they euthanize and it would cost $75.

Bob left work early. We wrapped Daniel in a blanket and drove to Menands. Upon our arrival we were told by the receptionist that we couldn't be with Daniel when they put him down. There gave no reason for not allowing us to be present. All we were told was that it was "policy." When we asked why this was the policy, we were told, simply, "it was policy."

It just didn't feel right to give them my living cat and have them bring me back a dead cat.

We begged to be allowed to be with Daniel while they administered the drugs. We were told flat out "no" and that we could take the cat to our vet.

So, we wrapped Daniel up and drove another 15 miles with him very uncomfortable, to the Latham Emergency Vet Hospital on Route 7 where they were extremely kind, very willing to have us present and we put our loving pet down. It was very peaceful.

It made us wonder: how do they kill the animals at Hudson Mohawk Humane Society? What is the objection to having the owners present for the euthanizing? Are they doing something in humane behind those closed doors?

I think somebody needs to investigate. I will never go back there ever again.

Later that night after we buried Daniel in the back yard, a friend came over for the evening and we told her the story. She said that her cat got out of the house and she couldn't find him. He had a computer chip for identification. She was told by Mohawk Hudson River Humane Society that they found him but never checked for the chip. They simply killed her cat.

Someone needs to investigate this operation. They present an image of doing good work when it comes to dogs and cats. However, I am very suspicious of their activities.

Sincerely,
Corlis F. Carroll

Pros: None

Cons: A horrible experience...don't go there.

I foster for the mohawk humane society. The people who work here care alot for the animals. I work often very closely with their animal coordinater who is fabulous. The vets are always available to to see the foster animals if there is a problem or to answer any questions you may have. I have even adopted one of my fosters a pit bull pup. They were very helpfull during the adoption process.

Pros: The staff really care for the animals

Cons: The kennels could be more cozy for the animals