On April 24th, 2024, my life was forever changed when I had to make the heartbreaking decision to euthanize my two-year-old dog, Kalila. She was fear aggressive towards people due to a traumatic experience we both went through together. Despite reaching out to local shelters, rescues, trainers and even breed-specific places within and outside Kansas, I received no help. The reason? There simply aren't enough resources or room for dogs like Kalila who need behavioral rehabilitation.

This is not just my story; it's the story of countless low-income pet owners across Kansas who are forced into similar situations due to lack of resources. Our pets are more than animals; they're family members who deserve every chance at a healthy life.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) estimates that approximately 670,000 shelter dogs are euthanized each year in the United States - many because they have behavioral issues that could be addressed with proper training and rehabilitation (ASPCA). It's time we address this issue head-on in Kansas.

We call on our state representatives and animal welfare organizations in Kansas to increase funding and resources dedicated towards behavioral rehabilitation programs for traumatized dogs. We also urge them to establish more affordable services so low-income pet owners can access these crucial services without fear of being turned away.

Let's ensure no other pet owner has to go through what I did with Kalila. Let's give our beloved pets the second chance they deserve by providing them with accessible behavioral rehabilitation services. Please sign this petition today.

I cannot and will not stop until I am satisfied that our voices have been heard..... ALL OF OUR VOICES, and that my beautiful girl didn't die for nothing. I understand  there's a shortage of resources and funding already, however there's no limit to effort and lengths people go to ensure that the "normal"  dogs aren't euthanized and Kalila and so many other dogs deserved that same amount of dedication that they got. 

#TraumatizedDogsLivesMatter