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Commission to review animal‑control policies after commissioners raise concerns about euthanasia access, volunteer limits and force guidance
Summary
Commissioners and staff discussed the Animal Control policies package, raised concerns about use‑of‑force language and the policy that currently prevents owners from being present during euthanasia. The commission asked for remaining shelter policies to be provided by mid‑June and scheduled further review at the next meeting.
The Animal Control Commission on May 5 reviewed the department’s ACO policy package and identified topics for further review, including the department’s use‑of‑force wording, limits on volunteers in the shelter, and a policy that currently prevents owners from being present during euthanasia.
Commissioner Swan asked that the department reconsider language in the “use of force continuum” and wanted policy wording to mirror the stated purpose language that officers should “exert only the minimum amount necessary to escape the situation safely.” Swan said the current wording could put officers in a difficult position and asked staff to address the apparent inconsistency.
Commissioners also questioned a shelter practice—described by staff as a change made for staffing and space reasons—that limits owners’ ability to be…
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