I am sad. I have volunteered at the Kootenai Humane Society animal shelter for three years. I can only go once a week because I work full time at another job. I am not an authority on animal behavior and do not have a business sense of things. I spoke with another long-time volunteer last evening. Since we no longer volunteer on the same days she deeps me informed on the dogs who get their well deserved “forever home.” She told me about a dog, named Lotto, who is going to be killed this coming week at the shelter. Apparently an adult woman put her fingers between the chain links of his small kennel and he bit her. Now her partner is demanding that the dog be euthanized. So, Lotto is kenneled in the back room awaiting the 10 days holding time that is “required” to make sure he does not have rabies.

Apparently, no one has updated their information that the only animals documented in the Pacific Northwest as having had rabies is bats. But also, these animals at the shelter are already vaccinated. She was invading his little territory, and now he is condemned.

This in not an isolated case. I do not think I can go back to volunteer if I know that another dog, not because of any fault of their own, will be euthanized on the whim of some adult that should have know better.

I have walked Lotto. Each dog has a personality, like humans. He is affectionate, playful and inquisitive. He has been loved and nurtured by volunteers and responds to the affection. I do not walk into each kennel thinking all the dogs are going to be what I want them to be or what I think they should be. I have adopted seven dogs so far in my life. All, delightfully different. Some had been abused, neglected and with most I will never know their story. I am careful with them. They have given me more affection and kindness than I have ever given them. And the few hours I spend at the shelter rewards me more than I ever give them. They do love unconditionally; I am blessed.

I am heartbroken and I am not alone. I know that in speaking about this I may not even be welcomed to continue to volunteer, but I needed to step up and say something for the voiceless ones.

PAULA DAHLEN

Hayden Lake