'No-kill' shelters VS 'kill' shelters - what you need to know

If you've ever adopted an animal from an animal shelter or rescue group, or are thinking about it, you may have come across the phrase 'no-kill shelter'. It sounds morbid, but what does this actually mean? And if there are such things as 'no-kill shelters', does that mean there are 'kill shelters'?

What does 'no-kill shelter' mean?

There is no official body that hands out 'no kill' certifications, so the term is self-appointed to animal shelters and rescue groups. 

According to Best Friends Animal Society, "No-kill is defined as saving every dog and cat in a shelter which can be saved. It means healing the animals who can be healed, treating behaviours that can be treated, and prioritising safety and high quality of life for both pets and people in our communities."

However, a lot of 'no kill' organisations have the luxury of a selection process where they can remain 'no kill' because they will only take in dogs and cats that are easily adoptable. 

What is the opposite of a 'no kill' shelter?

It's extremely difficult to hear, but sometimes shelters and rescue groups need to euthanise unadopted and unadoptable animals to ensure they have enough room to take in animals that can be adopted and need immediate rescuing.

So, what should you do if you want to adopt an animal?

Don't avoid shelters that euthanise animals. No one wants to euthanise an animal, but it is an unavoidable consequence of pet ownership around Australia. 

In fact, by adopting an animal from one of these shelters, you're doing them a big favour and helping them make room for more animals in need.

How you can you help animal shelters and animal rescue organisations

• Adopt, don't shop! Avoid buying animals from pet shops or breeders and adopt an animal that needs a home.

• Be an advocate for the "adopt, don't shop" movement and educate your family, friends and family on the benefits of adopting.

• Don't exclude donating to or adopting from shelters that aren't labelled 'no kill'.

• Ensure your animals are all desexed and microchipped with the correct details on their microchip.

If you are thinking of adopting an animal, we have a list of great animal rescue organisations and animal shelters where you could meet your next best friend. Contact us if you would like to learn more.