"No-kill" does not mean euthanasia never occurs

ORANJESTAD – The term "no-kill shelter" is often misunderstood, particularly in Aruba, where euthanasia carries a strong negative connotation and especially the word ‘kill cage’. It is important to clarify that the concept does not mean animals are never euthanized. It is equally important to note that shelters in Aruba do not operate under this model, and that euthanasia on the island is carried out responsibly by licensed veterinarians or at the Centro di Cacho, and only when it is medically or humanely necessary.

According to animal welfare experts, a shelter is considered "no-kill" when it achieves a live release rate of at least 90 percent. This means that the overwhelming majority of animals leave the shelter alive, although euthanasia may still be necessary in exceptional circumstances.

EUTHANASIA ONLY WHEN NECESSARY

Experts explain that euthanasia may be the most humane option when an animal is terminally ill, suffering with no reasonable chance of recovery, or poses a serious threat to public safety. The primary goal of any shelter is to save as many animals as possible while making responsible and compassionate decisions when no other option exists.

NOT ALL SHELTERS OPERATE UNDER THE SAME CONDITIONS

The article also points out that shelters do not all operate under the same circumstances. Limited-admission shelters can control how many animals they accept, while public open-admission shelters are legally required to accept every animal brought to them, regardless of its health, behavior or available kennel space.

For that reason, experts caution that a shelter's save rate alone does not tell the whole story. Other factors—including intake numbers, return-to-owner rates, length of stay, disease outbreaks, transfers, behavioral euthanasia and available resources—must also be considered to fairly evaluate a shelter's performance.