ROCK SPRINGS – Efforts by the city of Rock Springs to make the community a better place for companion pets has been noticed. A group is now asking Rock Springs to take further steps forward.
The Wyoming Animal Advocacy Group, a coalition of animal sheltering professionals and citizens advocates, has asked Rock Springs for its support in eliminating the use of gas chambers for the purpose of destroying animals. Currently, there are three gas chambers operating in Wyoming with Rock Springs being one. Wyoming is one of only seven states in the country that still utilizes them.
In 2015, the city of Rock Springs changed its ordinances lifting the maximum length of time an impounded animal could be held enhancing a pet’s chances for adoption. Measures were also put in place to ensure pets adopted from the shelter are spayed or neutered first.
Recently, the city also created an open exercise and play area for impounded dogs.
“These efforts are clear evidence of your commitment to and realization of the importance of companion animal welfare in your community.” – Wyoming Animal Advocacy Group
Even though Rock Springs Animal Control has moved to a low-kill shelter, euthanasia is sometimes necessary practice in animal control and sheltering. WAAG also pointed this out but added it should be performed as humanely as possible, with every effort made to reduce stress and fear for the animals.
“We believe that most people understand death by gas chamber is an inhumane practice, and that, by voluntarily taking steps to transition to euthanasia by injection, you would be demonstrating a proactive approach that might inspire others in the state to do the same,” the group said. “WAAG is committed to helping procure those resources for the Rock Springs Animal Control should the decision be made to pursue this action.”
Of the three communities in Wyoming utilizing gas chambers, we believe Rock Springs has demonstrated the most effort to create a positive image for its animal control and to provide for likely live outcomes for the animals in its care,”WAAG officials said. “This is why we are asking for your help in leading the way to end the use of euthanasia by gas chamber in Wyoming.”
The letter has been included in the Rock Springs Council meeting packet for Tuesday night’s meeting. WAAG officials said if Rock Springs is willing to consider moving this effort forward, they would like to meet with the city to get the process started.
