Extract from the RSPCA booklet, GUIDELINES FOR ANIMAL SHELTERS and reaction on it:
Deciding under what circumstances an animal will be euthanised is undoubtedly one of the most difficult policy decisions which your organisation will have to make. It is also a policy which will have the most far-reaching consequences for your shelter.
Possible policies include:
If your organisation wishes to ensure maximum levels of adoption from your shelter, you will at times have to accept the need for euthanasia of healthy animals for which no homes can be found. This decision can be made on the basis of the length of time the animal has already spent at the shelter (for instance it could be put down after two months). The decision can also be made on the basis of an assessment of the likelihood of an animal being rehomed ( for instance aggressive, elderly or nervous dogs could be put down while attractive animals could be kept until a home is found).
Any time limit which is set should take into account:
Prevent Animal Cruelty * Spay/Neuter and Vaccinate your Pets