Many people view their dogs as family members, but unfortunately, not everyone shares this sentiment. Abandoning a pet is already cruel, but opting to euthanize two healthy, happy dogs due to a minor inconvenience is a level of cruelty beyond comprehension.
They Lived With Him For 10 Years
A man from Indiana, USA, brought his two dogs, Cosmo and Sam, to a vet clinic requesting euthanasia. Cosmo, a small Labrador Retriever mix, and Sam, a Pointer, were a bonded pair of senior dogs who had lived with their owner for almost 10 years. Their owner, moving in with his girlfriend who was allergic to dogs, deemed them unnecessary to his life and instead of surrendering them to a shelter, opted for what he considered “convenience euthanasia” — a tragic decision reflecting a misguided sense of responsibility.
Convenience euthanasia refers to requests for ending the life of an animal based on the owner’s lifestyle changes, often ignoring the animal’s well-being. Thankfully, the vet recognized that Cosmo and Sam were healthy and deserving of life, stating, “None of us want to end a pet’s life unless it is to prevent suffering.” The two dogs were then transferred to Begin Again Rescue Co (BARC), a foster-based non-profit dog rescue located in Valparaiso, Indiana.
Cosmo And Sam Found Their Forever Home
Initially struggling to overcome the heartbreak of abandonment, with the support of BARC volunteers, Cosmo and Sam regained their spirits, eating and playing again. However, finding a permanent home for a bonded pair of senior dogs proved challenging, despite their remaining vitality. After a few months without success, they were placed in P.A.W.S. Tinley Park, a no-kill shelter in Illinois, which offered assistance. Fortunately, they soon found their forever home with Eric and Tiffany Dybas, a couple who had recently lost their beloved dog and were moved by Cosmo and Sam’s story.
“Thanks to our friends at P.A.W.S. Tinley Park, Sam and Cosmo are now relaxing on a comfy couch! They were so well-behaved during their visit with Santa, and their Christmas wish has come true — they have a home!” stated a Facebook post from BARC.
According to the shelter, the two lovely boys are thriving in their new home, surrounded by love and being thoroughly spoiled.
References:
[1] Cooney, K. A., & Kipperman, B. (2023). Ethical and Practical Considerations Associated with Companion Animal Euthanasia. Animals, 13(3), 430. DOI
