The fate of a Great Dane-Mastiff mix who was relinquished to the Ark Valley Humane Society and scheduled to be euthanized is in the hands of the Chaffee County Court.
On February 15th, the Ark Valley Humane Society received a formal inspection from the Pet Animal Care Facilities Act (PACFA) regarding the kennel and enclosure sizing for the 170-pound Great Dane-Mastiff dog named Echo. PACFA is a Department of Agriculture licensing and inspection program dedicated to protecting the health and well-being of pet animals in facilities throughout Colorado.
The inspection concluded that the dog’s enclosure met all requirements, and no violations were discovered. The Ark Valley Humane Society was in full compliance.
The complaint to PACFA was filed as part of the ongoing legal efforts to have the dog returned to the original owners, Shawn and Sophia Vrooman, rather than being euthanized. Echo was relinquished to Ark-Valley Humane Society on February 2nd and has a history of behavioral issues that included biting a person, another dog, and injuring a puppy.
After Echo’s relinquishment, AVHS reported that the animal’s behavior became aggressive, two staff members were bitten, and the dog was placed in a mandatory 10-day quarantine. AVHS is a minimal euthanasia facility, however, they have humanely euthanized animals for severe medical conditions and behavioral issues when considered a danger to public safety.
Inquiries have also been made about releasing Echo for what amounts to “rehabilitation”. But according to the Humane Society’s attorney, transferring the animal to an individual, rescue group or other such entity will not relieve AVHS of any future, potential liability. It is not possible for the previous owners or any other individual or organization to sufficiently indemnify AVHS should another person or animal be injured by Echo.
The case is scheduled to be heard in court at 9 am on Thursday, February 23rd.
