Phoenix's Quality of Life Policy

This is in place of what may also be known as a ‘No Kill’ policy Phoenix French Bulldog Rescue has a Quality of Life Policy. This is because we feel that to expound a ‘No Kill’ policy may give a false impression that no dog will ever be put to sleep. As much as we would be delighted for this to be the case, it is a utopian notion and, sadly, cannot be a reality. However, both policies represent the desire to preserve life unless there is absolutely no other option and all other attempts to rehabilitate the dog behaviourally and medically have been exhausted - it should be remembered that no ethical organisation takes such decisions lightly.

No dog in the care of Phoenix FBR will ever be euthanised unless:

1. terminal illness is affecting the ability to maintain a reasonable quality of life within a loving, foster home environment

2. the dog would be unable to cope with any necessary surgery and the recovery thereafter that may be needed for a good quality of life

3. there are proven instances of extreme, unmanageable and unpredictable aggression

“Terminal illness”

Upon diagnosis of terminal illness Phoenix FBR will seek a professional and realistic prognosis and ensure that a fosterer is happy to remain with the dog for palliative and end of life care. Full medical support will be offered during this time and adoption will be completed, where desired, at no cost to the fosterer, to allow the dog the dignity to pass as a family member. The time of euthanasia will be discussed in depth with the fosterer when it is felt that the dog is no longer enjoying a quality of life and/or is in pain and a decision will be made on consultation of the clinician responsible for the care of the dog. No dog will be allowed to suffer.

“Unable to cope with any necessary surgery and recovery thereafter”

If a dog is elderly or weak but surgery is necessary to maintain life, but may cause further distress during any prolonged or unpredictable recovery, the Management Team, in discussion with the fosterer and the appropriate clinicians, may make the decision to allow euthanasia rather than prolong suffering.

“Proven extreme, unmanageable and unpredictable aggression”

As a rescue organisation, there is a duty of care to the public, including all volunteers, fosterers and potential adopters, as well as to the dog. If a dog is assessed in the home and biting has been disclosed but seems to have been provoked, or due to poor health causing out-of-character behaviour, a dog may still be considered to come to rescue within an experienced foster environment. ** But:

(i) if the behaviour subsequently deteriorates dangerously

(ii) if the dog does not respond to re-training and/or prescribed medication

(iii) if a suitably qualified clinician considers that the dog has neurological issues

(iv) if there is no hope for the dog being adopted or remaining in that foster environment and living a reasonable quality of life beyond being fed and permanently crated/penned

(v) if there is a major potential for injury to the public or to another animal If any of points (i)-(v) occur, a meeting of the Management Team will be held to discuss the future of that dog with the potential for euthanasia, but not until most or all the above have been exhaustively investigated. A quorum decision will be needed before any action is taken.

**It should be noted that Phoenix FBR reserve the right to deny a dog a place in rescue if there are obvious behavioural or temperamental characteristics that would pose a health or safety risk, or otherwise make the dog unsuitable for placement as a pet.