Allegations against Anderson Co. animal shelter prompt investigation

CLINTON, Tenn. (WVLT) – According to Anderson County Mayor Terry Frank, social media allegations of “inhumane actions” by Anderson County’s director of animal care and control have sparked a human resources investigation. .

On April 21, an animal shelter employee posted on social media stating that Anderson County Animal Care & Control Director Brian Porter performed illegal euthanasia on animals, saying his license had expired while he continued to perform the procedure. WVLT News asked for additional clarification about euthanasia practices at the shelter, but did not hear a response.

The message also stated that the intracardiac injection commonly used by Porter, also known as the “heart stick”, to perform euthanasia. The post claimed it was “extremely painful” and should be used as a last resort.

According to the Humane Society of the United States, the method involves injection directly into the animal’s heart, where it is quickly transported to the brain. He states that the method would be excruciating if the animal were awake; therefore, the organization’s documents state that it should “never be administered to an animal unless the euthanasia technician has confirmed that the animal is completely unconscious.”

The message goes on to say that the woman did not believe the animals were properly sedated during euthanasia at the Anderson County Animal Shelter under Porter’s supervision.

In a statement sent to WVLT News, Porter said the social media allegations were “inaccurate and misrepresented me.”

Mayor Frank said there is an active Human Resources investigation into the alleged violations underway and no on-site euthanasia has taken place at the shelter since mid-December 2021.

Additionally, Mayor Frank said that with an active and ongoing investigation underway, no further comment would be made until the findings are finalized, which will then be released.

On Monday, May 9, the Anderson County Operations Committee met, where many topics were discussed, including the allegations. As a result, Commissioner Robert McKamey moved a motion to authorize Mayor Frank to hire a Veterinary Director to oversee operations at the shelter. He suggested installing a camera to “help the director see what’s going on”.

Commissioner Mead seconded the motion; it was adopted unanimously and will be forwarded to the entire committee for approval.

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