Humane Society of Southern Arizona uncovers shocking details about the transfer of small animals to a reptile breeding company
The Humane Society of Southern Arizona (HSSA) has concluded its investigation into the transfer of hundreds of small animals from a San Diego animal shelter to a reptile breeding company. The independent investigation aimed to uncover the timeline of events and determine what HSSA employees knew about the incident. The findings shed light on a series of missteps and poor judgment that led to the likely use of the animals as reptile feed.
The Transfer and Initial Assurances
In July, the San Diego Humane Society (SDHS) reached out to various animal rescues, including the HSSA, for assistance with an overload of smaller pets. The HSSA agreed to help, and the transfer of the animals took place on August 7, executed by then-COO Christian Gonzales. Former HSSA CEO Steve Farley assured the board that the animals were safe at the end of August. However, it was later discovered that the majority of the animals were delivered to Colten Jones, the owner of a reptile breeding company called The Fertile Turtle, which is not a licensed rescue organization.
Unaccounted Animals and New Information
More than 250 of the 323 small animals transferred from the SDHS to the HSSA remain unaccounted for. The HSSA board learned about Colten Jones and The Fertile Turtle on September 29. The organization recently received new information that suggests the animals were likely used as reptile feed. Investigative reporter Chorus Nylander obtained a text message allegedly sent by Jones, requesting assistance in freezing guinea pigs and rabbits for a reptile show. This text message discredits Jones’ denial of using the animals as feed.
Investigation Findings and Accountability
The investigation found no evidence to suggest that Gonzales or the HSSA knew about Jones’ intentions to freeze and sell the pets. However, the text message indicates a reasonable belief that Jones may have used some of the animals for this purpose. The report highlights the HSSA’s culture of fear, poor record-keeping, training, and miscommunication as contributing factors to the incident. The lack of due diligence, communication, and CEO oversight also played a role.
Recommendations and Moving Forward
The report offers several recommendations for the HSSA, including updating policies and practices, improving staff literacy, enhancing data control, and implementing a more informed recruitment process for the next CEO. The HSSA is committed to preventing such outcomes in the future and ensuring the welfare of animals in their care. The San Diego Humane Society expressed heartbreak over the likely fate of the transferred pets and will explore legal actions while continuing to meet the needs of animals and the community.
Conclusion: The investigation into the transfer of small animals from a San Diego shelter to a reptile breeding company has revealed a disturbing outcome. The HSSA’s internal investigation uncovered a series of missteps, poor judgment, and a lack of communication that led to the likely use of the animals as reptile feed. The findings emphasize the need for improved policies, training, and oversight to prevent such incidents in the future. As the organizations involved grapple with the aftermath, they remain committed to seeking justice and ensuring the welfare of animals in their care.
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