The Maryland animal shelter has responded to claims made by a woman regarding the fate of her dog, Beau, after she consulted with them about euthanizing him.

Kristie Pereira alleges that she was advised to euthanize Beau by the Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Foundation (LDCRF), the group from which she adopted him. However, a year later, she spotted him listed for adoption on their website.

Pereira’s story involves Beau’s deteriorating health, with veterinarians suspecting a severe neurological issue. They discussed euthanasia due to the poor prognosis, and Pereira claims she followed the shelter’s guidance to have him euthanized at Montgomery County Animal Services.

The shelter, however, presents a different timeline of events. They state that Beau, renamed Amos Hart, was adopted from them in December 2022. When his health declined in March 2023, they advised Pereira to be present during euthanasia or offered to take him back if she couldn’t be there.

The shelter claims they only learned about Beau’s surrender to Montgomery County Animal Services in April 2023. They retrieved him from the shelter, where no neurological signs were observed, and provided medical care for his liver issues.

Beau underwent surgery for a liver shunt in September 2023 and was reported to be doing well by April 2024, when he was placed for adoption again. The shelter emphasizes that they do not rehome pets surrendered for euthanasia and reject any blame on Pereira for not pursuing extensive testing.

They maintain that pet medical decisions are complex and extend empathy to owners facing such difficult choices.