SPCA Concerns: “Too Reluctant To Euthanize”

Today, JDC Rescue had an unplanned visit from two SPCA inspectors from the Whakatane branch. The visit was prompted by concerns that “JDC Rescue may be too reluctant to euthanize.” When asked to elaborate, the SPCA representative explained that Bay Vets clinic had reported concerns about us not euthanizing, in particular the puppies with parvovirus (vaccinated per schedule, btw).

JDC Rescue contacted Bay Vets, the clinic that stood by us wholeheartedly during the parvo outbreak, to clarify the “vet reported concerns.” We work hand in hand with our vets, and without their incredible support, we wouldn’t have nine healthy puppies today. The clinic manager is happy with the outcome and hasn’t heard of any discussions with the SPCA or had any related concerns. All nine puppies are on site, vaccinated on schedule, and have recovered wonderfully thanks to round-the-clock love and care.

JDC Rescue got back in touch with the SPCA to share that the vet wasn’t aware of any issues and to confirm JDC’s understanding that the SPCA had advised euthanasia instead of treating conditions that could be cured—specifically for nine puppies who have since fully recovered.

The SPCA sets the standards of care for animal welfare in New Zealand, and JDC Rescue is willing to share these guidelines to the public and fellow rescue organizations.

The SPCA denied making this recommendation, saying they had no concerns about the nine puppies treated on site. They explained their concern was that the four puppies who died “might have declined unattended over a long period after they received vet care”. However, the vets were aware the puppies had died suddenly soon after treatment at their clinic and had assisted with the cremation. So while “declining unattended over a long period of time” is generally a valid concern, it doesn’t seem connected to this case at all. There was also no vet recommendation for euthanasia for any of the puppies. The SPCA added that after today’s meeting, there are no further concerns.

For transparency reasons, we shared with SPCA that the only recommendation for euthanasia we received and challenged was for Biggie, and it was made by the surgeon under the assumption that “the surgery is too expensive for a rescue”. We paid the “too expensive for a rescue” surgery with the same surgeon who initially recommended euthanasia, and Biggie is doing great. It has nothing to do with any of the parvo puppies.

We deeply appreciate any concern for the welfare of dogs—it’s the language we speak and the core of our mission. That’s why it’s perplexing that after working tirelessly, around the clock, to save nine lives—and succeeding—without any help from the SPCA, we’re branded as “reluctant to euthanize.” In truth, maybe it’s a badge of honor: of course we are. WE SAVED THEM.

We know there are times when there’s simply no other option. We have no hesitation in ending suffering when faced with a terminal illness that can’t be managed with palliative care, or an injury that can’t be survived. But this was nothing like that, and the fact that these puppies made it through and they are thriving says more than words ever could.

Photos of the nine puppies – parvo survivors – below: