Dog owners undoubtedly have a deep connection with their pets. As they say, a dog is a man’s best friend.
Apparently, one woman loves her dog so much that she decided to bring it to the grave with her.
A Healthy Dog, Actually
In Virginia, United States (US), a healthy Shih Tzu mix named Emma, was allegedly euthanized according to the late owner’s last wishes.
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The owner wanted her pet dog to rest with her.
Here’s a photo of a similar Shih Tzu mix.
What is Pet Euthanasia?
Pet euthanasia is a deliberation action taken to end a pet’s life.
Certified animal shelters and veterinarians administer the process by giving an overdosage of barbiturates – a central nervous system depressant drug – which ultimately stops the pet’s heart.
Commonly, such a complex decision is usually made to relieve the animal’s pain and suffering. Sometimes, it’s done when overly aggressive pets pose threats to human safety, which questions morals.
But For Emma, It’s A Different Story
On 8 March, Chesterfield County Animal Shelter in Chesterfield, Virginia, took in Emma after her owner’s death for two weeks. Emma was cited by the shelter’s volunteers as a well-bred and lovable fur baby.
According to Carrie Jones, manager of Chesterfield Animal Services, the shelter tried to convince the executor of the dead woman’s estate to sign the dog over for adoption by another family instead.
Sadly, their pleas were ignored several times.
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Executor Turns Up
On 22 March, the executor turned up to retrieve the dog. Once again, the shelter tried to keep the dog alive. It was the shelter’s last futile attempt.
Despite knowing what was going to happen to Emma, the shelter had no other choice but to turn Emma in.
Emma was subsequently euthanized and cremated. Her ashes were placed in an urn and returned to the estate representative of Emma’s late owner.
If you are wondering, yes, pets are considered personal property in several states including Virginia, so the late owner’s request is a legal one.
In fact, in several states like Virginia, Pennsylvania and New York, it is legal for pets to be buried with their owners. Terms and conditions apply, of course.
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Viral
Despite its legality, the owner’s request is a moral and questionable one that has caused national outrage. As soon as news of Emma’s heart-breaking death broke out, animal lovers, celebrities, other veterinarians and an animal protection organization spoke up.
People could care less about their choice of language in the midst of their anger.
British comedian Ricky Gervais tweeted, “Disgusting f—— nonsense”.
A particularly agitated post reads “WTF!!! people don’t care about animals in life or death!!! this is heartless, inhumane, and pitiful!!!! And the people who killed said dog are even more trash!!”
Some veterinarians revealed that they will never agree to put down a healthy animal. Dr Kenny Lucas of the Shady Grove Animal Clinic in Glen Allen, VA said that euthanasia is an emotional situation, and should be carried out ethically.
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It is not known whether Emma has been reunited with its owner, that is, buried together six-feet underground.
Dog owners, what are your thoughts on this news?
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