Stop the Use of Gas Chambers as a Method of Euthanasia in Utah
It has been shown in the Utah State Statutes that gassing is an acceptable method of euthanasia in animal shelters. Research has shown that people have died, had ongoing health problems, fertility problems, etc. from exposure to the CO gas. It has also been shown that it is not a quick, painless death. Euthanasia is defined as "The Good Death." Gassing is not what would fit in this category. It is not something that is easier on the person euthanising the animal. The animal dying can scream, bang it's head against the door, and scratch. This is something that we have outlawed for our prisoners, why are we using such barbaric ways to euthanize animals???
It has come to our attention that Utah still authorizes gassing as an acceptable method of euthanasia for unwanted animals. Some shelters feel that it reduces stress on it's employees. Research has shown otherwise. The animal screams, bangs its head against the door and scratches to get out. This, to me, would cause stress. Euthanasia is defined as "The Good Death" and this is not what I or any animal lover would consider to be a good death.
Gassing is not the cheaper alternative, nor is it safe. There have been reports of shelter workers dying from CO inhalation, health problems as well as fertility problems, and an instance of one chamber exploding.
Governor Huntsman, I implore you to make this change. Dismantle, destroy and outlaw these barbaric monsters and make it so injection of barbituates be the only method of euthanasia in our state.
Thank you for taking your time to read this.
