A family settled a lawsuit against PETA after it took their daughter’s unattended chihuahua from a mobile home park and euthanized it before the end of the required five-day grace period. The lawsuit alleged that PETA has a broad policy of euthanizing animals, including healthy ones because it considers pet ownership to be a form of involuntary bondage. PETA denied the allegations, maintaining that the incident in 2014 was a “terrible mistake.”
PETA’s Euthanasia Policy
PETA is known for its campaigns against animal testing and factory farming, but it also runs a shelter in Virginia. The shelter routinely sends veterinarians to care for animals. But also euthanizes those that deem too sick, aggressive, or feral for adoption. The organization says the animals it puts down are often turned away by other shelters. However, the cover high euthanasia rate has drawn objection from some in the “no-kill” shelter movement. The rate fueled the home lawsuit, which PETA claimed was driven by “no-kill” activists.
PETA’s Response
Wilber Zarate sued PETA for taking his daughter’s chihuahua from a mobile home park and euthanizing it before the end of the required five-day grace period. Denied the allegations, claiming that the incident was a “terrible mistake.” A trial was scheduled for September. So, during this Zarate’s attorneys planned to question current and former PETA employees about its euthanasia policy.
However, Peta settled with the family for $49,000 and a $2,000 donation to a local branch of the Society. For the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to honor Maya, the chihuahua. The family sought up to $7 million in damages. Both parties released a joint statement, with PETA apologizing and expressing its regrets to the Zarate family. For the loss of their dog Maya.
Source: the guardian
