Bend residents, it’s time to come out of your public relations-induced stupor.

Notice the sad irony of being named one of America’s dog-friendliest cities while your local animal “shelter” kills pets every weekday. They report euthanizing 584 animals last year. The five shelters serving Central Oregon — four of which are already no-kill — are missing out on thousands of dollars in much-needed grant money (from Maddie’s Fund) simply because our region still has a kill facility thanks to Humane Society of Central Oregon (HSCO). If barely-funded Madras, Prineville, Redmond and CRAFT (cats) can “afford” to be no-kill, of course Bend can do it too. HSCO receives the most money of all.

It’s time for our community to demand HSCO step out of the dark ages and embrace the no-kill philosophy.

There is enough money, enough staff, and enough space to do the right thing (as demonstrated by shelters with far fewer resources). The only way to save lives is by changing the philosophy at the shelter (read the book “Redemption” by Nathan Winograd). Let them know you will not continue to support HSCO killing our community animals. Innocent animals are counting on you! Speak up for them and tell everyone you know to do the same.

Join the no-kill revolution and give your money, volunteering and thrift store donations to shelters that value every single animal’s life.

Sandra Hayes

Sisters