Capital District Veterinary Referral Hospital

A Message to our Community

More than a year ago, Capital District Veterinary Referral Hospital received a severely injured dog through a local animal control agency. The dog did not have identification available at the time, and despite efforts to assess the situation, an owner had not been identified.

Based on the severity of the dog's injuries, the information available at the time and the authorization provided, the difficult decision was made to proceed with humane euthanasia to prevent further suffering. The owner came forward and was identified in the days following the procedure.

We recognize that this was a deeply painful outcome. Euthanasia is never a recommendation our veterinary professionals make lightly, particularly in an emergency involving a severely injured animal whose history and ownership are unknown.

We generally do not discuss individual patient matters publicly. However, because inaccurate information continues to circulate and individual employees have been subjected to personal attacks, we believe it is important to provide this clarification.

Capital District Veterinary Referral Hospital remains committed to providing compassionate emergency and specialty care to animals and supporting the people who care for them. We welcome respectful communication, but threats, harassment and personal attacks directed at our employees will not be tolerated.