As many of you have seen the post circulation on social media. The cats and dogs at The Community Humane Shelter of Steuben County need us to be THEIR VOICE. 

On July 21st of 2023, it was reported a dog fight occurred in the play yard. A volunteer let 5 dogs out into the play yard at once. Involving two of the dogs, one was pinned to the ground while the other was latched on attacking the other. Both of those dogs suffered multiple injuries. The shelter staff took the attacked dog to the vet right away to receive medical care. The other dog involved in the fight, was believed to be used as a bait dog in his past life. He suffered multiple face lacerations from the other dogs using self-defense. Staff had asked the shelter's Executive Director, Adrienne Long, if staff can take him to the vet also to receive medical care. Adriene Long told the staff no. The dog was left in his kennel shaking with blood dripping onto the kennel floor. Adrienne's reasoning was that the dog was going to be euthanized on Sunday July 23th. The third dog had also been bit around the eye and needed medical attention, again which was refused by Adrienne Long. He was Scheduled to be euthanized on Sunday as well. The two dogs scheduled to be euthanized, were denied medical treatment and left in their kennels for 18 hours after the dog fight. These dogs are facing a death penalty for an accidental event that occurred. 

Toby, the dog that lost his life on July 23th. He was adopted by a loving family on July 6th. The family stated he was a very good dog and never showed aggressive towards them. He slept with them, gave them kisses, and would follow his owner everywhere. On July 14th, just 7 days after he was adopted, the shelter contacted the adopter and told them they had to relinquish him. The family was heartbroken. The reason for Toby's return was that Adrienna said it was the shelter's liability. The adopter told the shelter Toby was being quarantined as the police and health department instructed them to do so. The adoptor was aware and used precautions just in case. Adrienne made the family believe that they had no choice but to return Toby. It was Adrienne's decision to euthanize Toby without giving him a chance at life. 

Staff and many volunteers who have shared their voice on behalf of the cats and dogs have been banned from the shelter because of Adrienne. Many have mentioned that Adrienne has influenced and pressured staff and committed volunteers to stay tight lipped about what is taking place at the shelter. The Board President who is aware of the actions, Tracey Floto, has done nothing to make the necessary changes needed for the shelter. The animals are no longer the main priority. Animal shelters are ran by a director, which is overseen by members of a board. That board is run by a president or known also as a chairman. This group of people are also tasked with hiring a new director. When a director is considered to be hired, it is very important that the candidate not be friends with any of the board members, due to what is known as “conflict of interest”. Soon finding out that Adrienne and Tracey are good friends. Making it more understandable as to why the actions of the shelter is being covered. Many animals have been euthanized and lost their lives due to the new direction of the shelter. 

There are many more disturbing situations that have occurred, but this is just a few. We as a community need to come together and fight for the animals and be THEIR VOICE. Sign this petition in hopes that the necessary changes will be made in sake for the animal's lives.