Orange County Animal Services today offered a public apology for euthanizing a pit bull which had been surrendered earlier this month, in error.
Owners of the pit bull for two years turned over the dog earlier this month and there were two requests for its adoption, both of which were subsequently withdrawn. A third adoption application was filed with Animal Services for the pit bull, but this fell through the cracks and the dog was euthanized on August 15, as scheduled.
“We are terribly sorry for this mistake and our hearts go out to the adopting family,” said Dil Luther, Division Manager of Orange County Animal Services. “An occurrence such as this is extremely rare. However, it happened and it’s an error we do not take lightly. We have already reinforced our procedures to ensure this does not happen again.”
Animal Services receives an average of 23,000 animals annually, approximately 53 dogs and cats in a day. “There are currently hundreds of other pets eagerly awaiting a forever home in our shelter and it is our sincere hope this unfortunate situation will not deter anyone from adopting one of our pets in the future,” said Luther.
For information on how to adopt, or to view photos of available animals please go to www.ocnetpets.com.
