Euthanasia Policy
The Animal Rescue League of Boston considers each animal as an individual to support their best possible outcome. We strive to achieve a high placement rate for the animals that enter our animal care and adoption facilities, while also recognizing that there are times when humane euthanasia is the most compassionate and responsible outcome.
When euthanasia decisions are made, they are made with thoughtfulness by knowledgeable personnel. The decision to euthanize considers the animal’s prognosis and quality of life, public health and safety, and whether each animal’s needs can be met. We acknowledge the emotional impact of making euthanasia decisions, performing euthanasia, and grieving an animal’s loss. ARL strives to foster open communication about how euthanasia decisions are made and the impact of euthanasia on all involved.
ARL also recognizes that access to humane euthanasia is a critical need for pet owners. Whenever euthanasia is performed at the Animal Rescue League of Boston, whether for animals in our care or as a service for owned pets, it is done by highly trained, compassionate staff, with kindness and respect for all involved, and using proper techniques[1] that minimize pain, fear, anxiety, and distress.
[1] AVMA Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals