Urgent call for public action to demand federal, state and government intervention and legislative reform regarding animal welfare, particularly in relation to euthanasia policies in shelters across several states, including Texas,

As of this year, San Antonio Animal Care Services (ACS) alone has euthanized 309 dogs and puppies, including neonatal puppies in 75 days (averaging 4 per day)—these animals were neither dangerous, aggressive nor suffering from severe medical conditions, those numbers plus silent kills have not been included in this tally. In fact, a significant number were described as sociable and even recognized as “Doggy Play Group Shining

As an example of these barbaric practices, 10 innocent, precious and totally rehomeable dogs were euthanized at the San Antonio ACS on 24 March, 2025, this slaughter occurs each and every day, Monday to Saturday.

Their current policies allow for:

• Owner-surrendered dogs to be euthanized within 24 hours.
• Stray dogs to be euthanized after just three days.
• Foster Carers are sometimes mandated to return dogs to the pound after 2 months Foster-returned dogs to be euthanized within a single day.

These timeframes are totally insufficient to advertise impounded animals, secure rescues, arrange adoptions, or even allow lost dogs to be reunited with their owners. It is devastating for a pet owner to locate their missing dog only to discover it has already been euthanized.

Furthermore, there appears to be no consistent standard for determining euthanasia timelines. Some dogs remain in shelters for over a month, while others are euthanized within days. Cases have been reported where:

• Nursing mothers are euthanized despite their puppies remaining in the same kennel.
• Puppies as young as four months old are euthanized.
• Dogs are sterilized and then immediately euthanized—raising ethical concerns about unnecessary medical procedures.
• Animals seized due to neglect or abuse are euthanized before investigations are completed, with some cases seeing no investigation at all.

The situation in Houston is equally concerning, as there is no mandated holding period, and shelters are not required to notify when euthanasia is scheduled—meaning a dog may be euthanized at any time without public awareness.

Proposed Legislative Reforms

To address this crisis, I respectfully urge you to demand the following:

Federal/State/Government Legislation to Reduce Shelter Euthanasia Rates

• Extend holding periods for impounded animals and removal of mandated foster returns after 2 months.
• Prohibit the desexing of animals while they are within their holding period.
• Establish clear, standardized criteria for euthanasia decisions, with full transparency on the reasons and timeline.

Mandatory Microchipping, Registration, and Desexing:

• Ensure that all owned dogs are traceable to their owners.
• Promote responsible pet ownership and reduce overpopulation.

Federal, State and Government wide Education and Subsidized Programs:

• Implement accessible and affordable microchipping, registration, and desexing initiatives.

Federal/State/Government Wide Ban on Puppy Mills and Backyard Breeding:

1. Impose strict penalties for those operating outside of legal and ethical breeding standards.

We need you to action and demand these reforms NOW to protect America’s animal population. Making America great again should also include ensuring the safety, welfare, and humane treatment of our companion animals.

Please sign the petition today to end the inhumane slaughter and to save our precious souls.