Animal welfare advocates demand answers as a transfer of small animals from California to Arizona takes a horrifying turn
In a devastating turn of events, over 300 small animals that were transferred from the San Diego Humane Society to the Humane Society of Southern Arizona to find new homes have likely ended up as reptile food. The incident has left animal welfare advocates demanding answers and has resulted in the firing of a humane society executive and the resignation of another. The shocking turn of events has sparked investigations by both organizations and local authorities, leaving many questioning how such a tragedy could have occurred.
The Transfer and the Disturbing Discovery
In August, the San Diego Humane Society transferred 323 small animals, including guinea pigs, rats, hamsters, and rabbits, to the Humane Society of Southern Arizona. The transfer was prompted by the San Diego organization’s overcapacity, and they sought the help of their sister organization in Arizona to find new homes for the animals. The animals arrived safely in Tucson on August 7, or so it seemed. However, concerns about their fate quickly arose, leading to investigations by both organizations and local authorities.
The Reveal and the Intentions
A joint statement from the San Diego and Arizona humane organizations released on November 9 revealed that over 300 animals were transferred to a man named Colten Jones, the owner of the Fertile Turtle, a reptile farm business that sells live and frozen animals for reptile feed. A text message obtained by a local Tucson television station, KVOA, showed Jones asking a source if they had the ability to freeze a large number of guinea pigs and rabbits. The message strongly indicated that Jones intended to use the animals as reptile feed instead of finding them adoptive homes.
Seeking Answers and Legal Action
The San Diego and Arizona humane organizations expressed their heartbreak over the situation and their commitment to seeking definitive answers about the fate of the animals. They have stated their intention to pursue legal action when warranted. The Tucson Police Department is currently investigating the incident, and both organizations are collaborating with their legal advisors to explore civil and criminal proceedings. The Arizona humane organization has also commissioned an independent investigator to release a report on the matter.
Consequences and Accountability
In October, the Humane Society of Southern Arizona fired its chief executive, Steve Farley, and accepted the resignation of its chief operating officer, Christian Gonzalez, who reportedly oversaw the transfer of the animals. The organization cited their “terribly negligent actions against the mission of the Humane Society” as the reason for their termination. Farley has denied any involvement in the transfer and expressed his distress at the allegations. The Arizona organization has since hired a new chief executive.
Unanswered Questions and Community Involvement
The transfer of animals between organizations is not uncommon, but large transfers like this one are rare. The Humane Society of Southern Arizona stated that key members who are typically involved in such transfers were neither informed nor consulted about this particular transfer. The organizations have expressed their gratitude to the community members who have sought answers and uncovered new information about the incident. They encourage anyone with information to contact the Tucson Police Department.
Conclusion:
The heartbreaking incident involving the transfer of animals from the San Diego Humane Society to the Humane Society of Southern Arizona has left the animal welfare community in shock and demanding accountability. The investigation into how these animals ended up as reptile food continues, and both organizations are committed to seeking justice for the animals involved. This tragic event serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and adherence to protocols in animal rescues, and the need for continued efforts to ensure the well-being of animals in our care.
Leave a Reply