27/10/2025
It has come to my attention that there have been accusations made about me surrounding my experience with the topic of behavioral euthanasia and I wanted to share my thoughts to create a safe space for conversation.
Last year, I had 3 animals cross paths with me as a trainer, some through rescue and some my personal training clients. Two of these animals had complex behavioral concerns that were resulting in people getting hurt and numerous vets, veterinary behaviorists and trainers were consulted BEFORE behavioral euthanasia was even considered. The third was a medical condition that was causing the dog to bite unprovoked and the bites were only getting worse. He also had consults with vets (MULTIPLE not just one) before the decision was made.
Let me be VERY clear. This is a last resort for any owner or rescue, but it does happen and needs to happen in some cases for safety and quality of life concerns.
Something that has been said about me is that I “just want to kill dogs” who are too complex for me to handle all because I believed that behavioral euthanasia was the right decision for those dogs in discussion with the vets and VB’s and because I supported families IN that decision. It is NEVER a trainers choice to have behavioral euthanasia happen. That is between the vet or VB and the guardian. We are just there to support in ways that we can.
Let me be very clear. I will not and never have taken on a case I cannot handle. I have an incredible support system or trainers and veterinary behaviorists who work along side of me who I refer to when needed. I am not an expert in all things behavior and I am ALWAYS learning.
For two of these animals, I laid on the floor with them and told them I loved them and was so sorry while trying to keep myself together for their families as they took their last breath. Their names were Charlie and Winston.
The other family was a client of mine. He was an incredible dog named Rio. I was supposed to stay with him for 2 weeks, however before their trip they let me know that they decided the risk was too great and to give him the peace he deserved. They gave me a card saying how grateful they were for being one of his safe people and for always advocating and supporting them and him especially through this decision.
These families fought and advocated for their dogs day in and day out. Each one of them. They did everything they could and the reality is that sometimes it still isn’t enough.
I believe that quality of life of animals and their owners should always come first before anything else.
You see, people will always have an opinion about behavioral euthanasia, as they should!
It is a VERY difficult conversation to have and needs to be taken very seriously. But something that isn’t okay is slandering someone and spreading false information surrounding situations they have no idea about nor any business being a part of.
So, if you have any questions, my DM’s and “door” is always open. Please ask questions, not make assumptions.
Behavioral Euthanasia is a very sensitive topic and one that should be treated with respect.
To anyone who has experienced this, I see you, I love you and I support your incredibly difficult decision. Your pets know you loved them and I truly hope that Winston, Charlie and Rio knew that I loved them too.
