18/10/2026
WHAT DID I LEARN IN LONDON
END OF LIFE
I think the topic is relevant to my life as an Animal Welfare organisation who dealt with two very different situations this week involving HUMANE EUTHANASIA for animals
Euthanasia was a topic of one of the sessions in London that was understandably dealt with.
The session was named END OF LIFE
The topic was openly discussed several times during the course of the week actually and everyone knew there would be a formal session on it later in the week.
Euthanasia was not a controversial topic that was discussed. It was treated as a sensitive topic and allowed people to express their views.
Euthanasia was accepted by everyone as decision that most shelters face. What was important was how to facilitate the process with others in your shelter and which animals would be considered.
There was no judgement or opinions against shelters that are pro euthanasia (myself)
I could openly and freely discuss my euthanasia policy.
I found the context that best explain euthanasia for me. I never really had the correct term before.
Contextually Justified Euthanasia
- Is there is at least one better option, but circumstances are such that it could not be taken
I also found a book that i think many organisations should read
"Death is not a welfare issue" by John Webster
There were many instances where I disagreed with someone's approach or reasoning of their own process when choosing which animals would be considered
I very much made my list on public demand, interest and like of a breed.
For me - the public ultimately decides who lives and who dies.
The public will adopt any fluffy animal.
Behavioural euthanasia the one topic that was rated and accepted by most shelters
I felt sad for the countries that were legally not allowed to euthanize animals.
This past week my organisation made the decision to make a public post of our assistance with mass euthanasia
The decision was supported, discussed and agreed on by 3 people of interest in the matter.
It is here where I want to make myself very very clear.
YOU don't get to have an opinion on social media.
3 people of interest in the matter was asked, agreed and assisted with the process
41 cats deserve to receive veterinary care, assessments and treatments within 24/48 hours of intake
Other animals in the shelter and veterinary clinic deserve protection against contagious diseases.
A 7 day isolation period
Feline Aids and Leukaemia test are required
Vaccinations are required
Tick and flea treatments are required
Adequate food is required
Sterilizations are required
Minimum standards for shelters are required
Life is not enough.
Animals deserve the 5 Freedoms for Animal Welfare
• Freedom from Hunger and Thirst: Through ready access to fresh water and a proper diet.
• Freedom from Discomfort: By providing a suitable environment with adequate shelter and resting areas.
• Freedom from Pain, Injury, or Disease: Through prevention, rapid diagnosis, and treatment.
• Freedom to Express Normal Behaviour: By offering sufficient space, proper facilities, and appropriate social companionship.
• Freedom from Fear and Distress: By ensuring conditions that prevent mental suffering.
Do YOU provide less than the minimum standards of shelters?
Do YOU deprive animals of the 5 Freedom for Animal Welfare?
I also faced death this week for a animal I was desperately trying to save
I never for one minute thought to keep her alive for my own emotional benefit
I phoned Stefan immediately to ask him if I should euthanize her? He was always available to me when I needed help with Daisy.
I didn't make the decision by myself
Dr William arrived and asked me "Do you concent to euthanasia?"
I answered "Yes"
3 people of interest in the matter together made the decision
I would never have put her trough a surgery or rehabilitation or crate care
In all honesty, no one wanted to adopt her
We are facing a over population crises in South Africa
Rescue organisations are lowering their standards of living for animals and overcrowding their shelters in an desperate attempt to save more lives. The public is donating less and safe and loving homes are becoming impossible to find.
Euthanasia is Rescue to
🌼
